Skoda Kushaq Review - Almost perfect all round SUV

The Kushaq has established itself as one of the more driver-focused compact SUVs in the Indian market. Built specifically for local conditions yet retaining the brand’s signature European engineering philosophy, the Kushaq brings together practicality, premium appeal and engaging road manners in a well-balanced package. In a segment where many SUVs focus heavily on features and styling, the Kushaq quietly prioritises the fundamentals of good driving dynamics and solid build quality.

At the centre of this experience is the 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol engine paired with the 8-speed automatic gearbox. This combination delivers a smooth and efficient driving experience while still offering the lively character that turbocharged engines are known for. For buyers looking for an easy-to-drive urban SUV with strong highway capabilities, this particular variant makes a compelling case.

Design

The Kushaq follows Skoda’s clean and sophisticated design language. It may not be overly flashy, but its sharp lines and balanced proportions give it a confident and modern appearance. The front is dominated by the signature butterfly grille with chrome accents, flanked by sleek LED headlamps that give the SUV a crisp and distinctive face.

The bonnet features subtle creases that add character, while the sculpted bumper design enhances the SUV’s visual presence. Along the side, the Kushaq displays strong shoulder lines and squared wheel arches that reinforce its SUV stance. The large alloy wheels and slightly raised ride height further contribute to its purposeful look.

The rear design remains neat and uncluttered with distinctive tail lamps and a sculpted tailgate. The integrated roof spoiler and bold bumper design add a sporty touch without compromising the car’s understated elegance. Overall, the Kushaq’s design strikes a fine balance between sophistication and ruggedness.

Interiors

Inside the cabin, the Kushaq immediately impresses with its solid construction and thoughtful layout. The dashboard design is clean and driver-oriented, with a floating touchscreen infotainment system positioned prominently at the centre.

The materials used throughout the cabin feel sturdy and well put together, reflecting the brand’s emphasis on durability and quality. Soft-touch surfaces in key areas and neatly finished trims add to the premium ambience.

The front seats are well contoured and offer excellent support, making long drives comfortable. The driving position is particularly good, with ample adjustability and a thick-rimmed steering wheel that feels great to hold.

Practicality is another strong point. The cabin features numerous storage spaces including deep door pockets, cup holders and useful compartments across the centre console. Combined with modern connectivity features and a user-friendly infotainment system, the Kushaq’s interior feels both functional and contemporary.

Back Seat and Boot

Rear seat space in the Kushaq is respectable for a compact SUV. The long wheelbase allows for decent legroom, while the upright roofline ensures adequate headroom for taller passengers. Two adults will find the rear bench comfortable for longer journeys, though accommodating three passengers may feel slightly tight on extended drives.

Rear passengers also benefit from thoughtful additions such as air-conditioning vents and charging ports, which enhance comfort during long trips.

The boot space is generous and practical. Its square shape makes it easy to load suitcases, backpacks or grocery bags, while the wide opening simplifies the loading process. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or everyday errands, the Kushaq’s luggage compartment offers enough flexibility to handle most requirements.

Ride and Handling

One of the standout qualities of the Kushaq is its ride and handling balance. The suspension setup is tuned to cope well with Indian road conditions, absorbing bumps and potholes without unsettling the cabin.

Despite this comfort-oriented setup, the SUV still maintains impressive composure when driven enthusiastically. The chassis feels solid and planted, giving the driver confidence at highway speeds. Body roll is well controlled, which makes the Kushaq surprisingly enjoyable to drive on winding roads.

The steering offers a good level of feedback and weight, allowing precise control through corners. While it remains comfortable for daily commuting, it also delivers the kind of driving engagement that enthusiasts appreciate.

Performance

The 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol engine is the highlight of this particular variant. Despite its small displacement, the engine feels lively and energetic thanks to the turbocharger. It produces a strong surge of torque in the mid-range, which makes overtaking and highway acceleration effortless.

Paired with the 8-speed automatic gearbox, the driving experience becomes smooth and relaxed. Gear shifts are seamless and the transmission responds well to both gentle and spirited driving inputs. In city traffic, the gearbox keeps the engine operating smoothly, making stop-and-go driving far less tiring.

On the highway, the additional gears allow the engine to cruise comfortably at higher speeds, contributing to both refinement and efficiency. The engine also remains reasonably quiet when driven calmly, adding to the overall comfort of the car.

For buyers looking for even stronger performance, the Kushaq is also available with a 1.5-litre TSI engine paired with a DSG automatic transmission. This larger engine delivers noticeably higher power and a more spirited driving character, while the DSG gearbox provides extremely quick and precise gear changes. It is the more performance-focused option in the range.

However, for most everyday driving scenarios, the 1.0-litre turbo automatic strikes an excellent balance between performance, smoothness and efficiency.

Summary

The Škoda Kushaq continues to stand out in the crowded compact SUV segment by focusing on the fundamentals that truly matter. It combines solid build quality, a well-designed cabin and engaging driving dynamics in a package that feels both practical and refined.

The 1.0-litre TSI engine paired with the 8-speed automatic gearbox delivers a smooth and versatile driving experience that suits both city commuting and long highway journeys. Meanwhile, the availability of the more powerful 1.5-litre DSG variant ensures that enthusiasts also have an option to explore.

With its balanced design, comfortable ride and enjoyable performance, the Kushaq remains a strong contender for buyers seeking a compact SUV that offers more than just style and features. It is a car that quietly delivers a rewarding ownership experience through thoughtful engineering and a genuine focus on driving pleasure.