Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Petrol 1.0L Turbo Automatic (TC)

I opted for the Monte Carlo edition, and the blacked-out exterior design is a head-turner. The performance of the new 8-speed automatic is much smoother in bumper-to-bumper traffic than the old 6-speed. The interior design with the red accents looks sporty, and the quality of the sound system with the subwoofer is fantastic. I’m giving it a 4.4 because the value for money is high for enthusiasts, but the infotainment screen can occasionally be a bit glitchy during startup.

The 2026 facelift has fixed almost everything; the interior quality feels much more robust than the 2021 model, and the Google-powered AI assistant actually understands my voice commands! Handling is planted even at 120 kmph, and the safety features like 6 airbags as standard are a huge win. My only gripe is the mileage drops significantly if you drive aggressively, but if you're gentle, 18 kmpl is doable. I rated it 4.4 because the comfort is geared for four people; a fifth passenger is definitely an unwelcome guest.

If you value safety and build quality, the Kushaq is unbeatable; the doors shut with that heavy German "thud" that gives you real confidence. The exterior design is butch and the 155mm ground clearance is manageable, though you have to be careful on rural roads. The performance of the 1.5 TSI is legendary, but the value for money takes a slight hit because Skoda still misses out on ADAS which many rivals now offer. Still, the comfort and driving dynamics make it a 4.4/5 for me every day.