2026 Skoda Kushaq -

Spy Shot: The 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Spied Testing

This image is ideal for your “Upcoming Cars” or “Spy Shots” section. The telephoto style and camouflage wrap create excitement and curiosity.

Headline: SPY SHOT: Skoda Kushaq Facelift Caught Testing in the Alps
Content: “Our spy photographers have captured the first clear images of the upcoming Skoda Kushaq Facelift. Expected to launch in May 2026, this prototype was spotted undergoing final durability tests on European mountain roads. Despite the heavy camouflage, we can see a more upright and aggressive grille, flanked by split headlamps that seem to take inspiration from its bigger sibling, the Kodiaq. The rear also appears to feature redesigned taillights and a new bumper. Under the hood, we expect the current 1.0L and 1.5L TSI engines to continue, but with improved efficiency and possibly a mild-hybrid system. This facelift will be crucial for Skoda to maintain its strong position in the competitive compact SUV segment against new rivals like the Renault Duster.”

The 8-Speed Shift: The switch from a 6-speed to an 8-speed Torque Converter for the 1.0L engine isn’t just a marketing gimmick; it is designed to solve the “low-end lag” often felt in stop-and-go city traffic, making the drive significantly smoother.
Performance Stability: While the power figures are unchanged, Skoda has reportedly optimized the 1.5L TSI’s cooling system to handle Indian summers better—a common feedback point from previous owners.
Manual Discontinuation: Leaks suggest that for the 1.5L TSI, Skoda may move to DSG-only options, focusing on the premium “enthusiast” market that prefers the lightning-fast shifts of the Dual-Clutch transmission.

Enhanced Air Conditioning: One of the biggest updates is a larger compressor unit. Skoda has officially stated that the AC performance is now significantly “stronger” to address previous criticisms regarding cooling efficiency.
Updated Sound System: The higher trims (Prestige and Monte Carlo) now feature an 8-speaker “Skoda Signature” sound system with a dedicated subwoofer in the spare wheel well, replacing the standard 6-speaker setup.
Dual-Tone Ambient Lighting: Unlike the previous single-color white light, you can now toggle between different colors to match your mood, which is integrated into the dashboard and door pads.

The “Gemini” Edge: The Google Gemini integration isn’t just for music. It allows you to use natural language to control the car (e.g., “Hey Google, I’m feeling hot” will lower the AC temperature).
Turn-by-Turn Navigation: The new 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit now supports Google Maps mirroring directly in front of the driver, so you don’t have to look at the center screen for directions.
What’s Still Missing? Despite the upgrades, the 2026 model does not include ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) or a 360-degree camera. Skoda has prioritized mechanical “solidity” and passenger comfort (like the rear massager) over electronic driving aids.

Boot Space Secret: The boot is officially rated at 491 Liters (up from 385). This increase comes from a clever redesign of the floor board and measuring up to the roof-line rather than just the parcel tray.
Rear Comfort: Along with the massage function, the rear seats have been re-contoured with better under-thigh support for long-distance cruising.