Skoda Auto has released the first official sketches of its upcoming Kushaq SUV, which is slated to unveil on 18th March 2021. Earlier, it was showcased as the VISION IN concept at Auto Expo 2020.
Skoda Kushaq – What do the official sketches reveal?
The official sketches giving us a fair idea of how the production-spec version of the VISION IN concept aka the Kushaq SUV will look like. As per the sketches, the Kushaq will retain most of the design elements from its concept model.
Upfront, it will feature Skoda's wide traditional butterfly grille, flanked by a split headlamp setup, which is likely to comprise LED units. An aggressively styled bumper with large air dams also looks somewhat similar to the concept model. However, it will be toned down in the final model.
On the sides, it features strong character lines, Skoda badging on the left fender, and well-rounded wheel arches with plastic cladding running along the length of the car, adding to the Kushaq’s rugged appeal. The car also sports funky dual-tone alloy wheels. However, they are unlikely to make it to production. Expect the final Skoda Kushaq to get 17-inch wheels with different alloy designs.
At the rear, it is seen flaunting the C-shaped taillights, an extended roof spoiler, and a bumper-integrated diffuser. Overall, the upcoming Czech Republican SUV looks striking & muscular, and it carries a genetic similarity to larger Skoda SUVs like Kodiaq and the Karoq.
Interior & Features
The interior of the car is yet to be seen, but it is likely to take inspiration from Skoda Kamiq SUV. In terms of features, it will be equipped with a large touchscreen infotainment system with connected car technology, auto climate control, rear AC vents, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, power-adjustable driver’s seat, electronic stability control, a tire pressure monitoring system, and many more.
Engine & Gearbox
The Kushaq will be a petrol-only offering. It is expected to get two turbocharged petrol engine – a 1.0-litre and a 1.5-litre. Both mills will get a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard along with a different automatic unit for each engine. While the 1.0-litre engine will get the choice of a 6-speed torque converter, the bigger engine will be offered with the 7-speed dual-clutch unit.
Also Read: Next-Gen Skoda Fabia Teased, Will It Come To India?
Expected Price, Launch & Rivals
The Kushaq will be the first offering under Skoda-VW's India 2.0 business plan. It will also be the first Skoda SUV to be made in India on the heavily localized version of the VW Group’s smallest modular MQB-A0 IN platform. We expect it to be launched in the second quarter of 2021 with prices ranging between Rs 10 to 17 lakh (ex-showroom).
In the Indian market, the Skoda Kushaq will be positioned against the like of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Harrier, and MG Hector.