The Skoda Kushaq has been making waves in the Indian automotive market since its launch, and for good reason. With its robust build, dynamic performance, and a host of features, the Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI stands out as a formidable contender in the compact SUV segment. In this detailed review, we will explore everything you need to know about the Skoda Kushaq, including its price range, performance, mileage, and how it compares to its competitors. We’ll also provide a list of pros and cons, answer frequently asked questions, and help you determine if the Skoda Kushaq is the right choice for you.
Price Range of Skoda Kushaq in India
One of the most crucial factors when considering a new vehicle is its price. The Skoda Kushaq is competitively priced in the Indian market, with the 1.5 TSI variant ranging from approximately ₹15.49 lakh to ₹19.69 lakh (ex-showroom). This price range places the Skoda Kushaq in direct competition with other popular compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Volkswagen Taigun.
Performance and Mileage of Skoda Kushaq
The Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine that delivers an impressive 148 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed DSG (Dual-Clutch Automatic) gearbox. The powertrain is one of the highlights of the Skoda Kushaq, offering a smooth and responsive driving experience.
The Skoda Kushaq’s performance is particularly notable on both city roads and highways. The 1.5 TSI engine offers brisk acceleration, making overtaking and merging onto highways effortless. The DSG gearbox, known for its quick shifts, complements the engine’s performance, providing a seamless driving experience.
In terms of mileage, the Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI delivers a respectable fuel efficiency. The manual variant offers around 17.88 km/l, while the automatic variant provides approximately 15.78 km/l, according to ARAI figures. These numbers make the Skoda Kushaq an efficient choice for those looking for a balance between performance and economy.
Interior and Features
The Skoda Kushaq’s interior is a blend of functionality and premium feel. The cabin is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasant experience.
The dashboard design is clean and modern, with a user-friendly infotainment system that includes a 10-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Skoda’s MySkoda Connect app for connected car features. The instrument cluster is partially digital, providing essential driving information at a glance.
Other notable interior features include a multi-function steering wheel, automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. The Skoda Kushaq also offers a wireless charging pad, multiple USB-C ports, and a sunroof, adding to the overall convenience and luxury of the cabin.
Exterior Design
The Skoda Kushaq features a bold and aggressive design that exudes confidence on the road. The front end is dominated by Skoda’s signature butterfly grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights and DRLs. The sharp character lines along the sides give the Skoda Kushaq a dynamic and sporty stance.
The SUV rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, which add to its rugged appeal. The rear of the Skoda Kushaq is equally stylish, with LED taillights, a faux skid plate, and a roof spoiler. Overall, the Skoda Kushaq’s design is modern and attractive, making it a head-turner in its segment.
Pros and Cons of Skoda Kushaq
Like any vehicle, the Skoda Kushaq comes with its set of strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick overview:
Pros:
- Powerful and Responsive Engine: The 1.5 TSI engine delivers excellent performance, making the Skoda Kushaq one of the most engaging SUVs to drive in its segment.
- Premium Interior Quality: The Kushaq’s cabin is well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a range of modern features.
- Safety Features: The Kushaq is equipped with multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill-hold control, and a rearview camera, ensuring a safe driving experience.
- Ride and Handling: The Kushaq offers a comfortable ride with precise steering, making it a joy to drive on various road conditions.
- Brand Reliability: Skoda is known for building robust and reliable cars, and the Kushaq is no exception.
Cons:
- Limited Boot Space: The Kushaq’s boot capacity is slightly lower compared to some competitors, which might be a drawback for those needing extra luggage space.
- Price: While competitively priced, some variants of the Kushaq might seem a bit on the higher side compared to its rivals.
- No Diesel Option: The absence of a diesel engine option might deter buyers who prefer diesel for its fuel efficiency and torque.
Competitors and Comparison
In the compact SUV segment, the Kushaq faces stiff competition from models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, and MG Hector. Here’s how the Kushaq stacks up against its competitors:
- Hyundai Creta/Kia Seltos: Both the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos are popular choices in the segment, offering a wide range of engine options, including diesel. However, the Kushaq’s 1.5 TSI engine offers superior driving dynamics and a more engaging driving experience compared to the Creta and Seltos’ petrol variants.
- Volkswagen Taigun: The Taigun shares its platform and engines with the Kushaq, making them quite similar in performance. However, the Kushaq distinguishes itself with a slightly more premium interior and better ride comfort.
- MG Hector: The MG Hector is a larger SUV with more space and features. However, the Kushaq is more compact and easier to maneuver, making it a better choice for city driving.
Who Should Buy the Skoda Kushaq?
The Kushaq is ideal for those who prioritize driving pleasure, build quality, and brand reputation. If you’re looking for a compact SUV that offers a powerful engine, premium interior, and advanced safety features, the Kushaq is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for urban dwellers who need a car that’s easy to drive in the city but also capable of handling long highway trips with ease.
However, if you require a larger boot space or prefer a diesel engine, you might want to explore other options in the segment. But for those who value performance and a well-rounded package, the Skoda Kushaq is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skoda Kushaq
Q: What is the price range of the Skoda Kushaq?
- The Kushaq 1.5 TSI is priced between ₹15.49 lakh to ₹19.69 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q: What is the mileage of the Skoda Kushaq?
- The manual variant of the Kushaq 1.5 TSI offers around 17.88 km/l, while the automatic variant provides approximately 15.78 km/l.
Q: Does the Skoda Kushaq have a diesel engine option?
- No, the Kushaq is only available with petrol engine options.
Q: What are the safety features available in the Skoda Kushaq?
- The Kushaq is equipped with multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill-hold control, and a rearview camera.
Q: How does the Skoda Kushaq compare to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos?
- The Kushaq offers superior driving dynamics and a more engaging driving experience compared to the petrol variants of the Creta and Seltos. However, the Creta and Seltos offer more engine options, including diesel.
Conclusion
The Kushaq 1.5 TSI is a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a well-rounded package of performance, comfort, and features. While it has a few drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh them, making it a top contender for anyone in the market for a premium and fun-to-drive SUV. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Skoda Kushaq is a vehicle that delivers on its promises.
Know more about more cars in this segment : https://carovaar.com/hyundai-creta-2024-review-price-performance-faqs/ , https://carovaar.com/comprehensive-kia-seltos-review-performance-value/