The first vehicle designed and developed under the purview of the ‘INDIA 2.0’ project is christened as Skoda Kushaq. The Vision IN SUV (Internal nomenclature) was revealed at the 2020 Auto Expo and the name Kushaq derives its origin from an ancient language of the INDIAN subcontinent, Sanskrit, and the word ‘KUSHAK’ denotes ‘KING’ or ‘EMPEROR’.
The name with ‘K’ at the very start and ‘Q’ at the very end coherently resonates the virtues of the ŠKODA SUV family: KODIAQ, KAROQ, and KAMIQ.
Mr. Zac Hollis, Brand Director – ŠKODA AUTO India said, “The new ŠKODA KUSHAQ will offer a compelling combination of the brand’s timeless design ideals, unmatched performance, superior build quality, exemplary value proposition, and enhanced safety and security. It is deemed to be the best seller in its class, setting the benchmark for functionality, practicality, spaciousness, and convenience.”
Design and Dimensions
Skoda Kushaq based on state of the art and locally developed Modulare Querbaukasten (MQB) A0 IN platform. It measures 4256mm in length with 2,671mm wheelbase.
The concept car showcased at Auto Expo 2020 had Skoda grille with illuminated double slats, which are flanked by split headlamps.
It is expected to be equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen system, fully digital instrument panel, panoramic glass roof, and shift-by-wire system for automatic transmission.
- 1.0l turbo petrol with 110hp and 175Nm of torque mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed torque converter
- 1.5l turbo petrol with 150hp and 250Nm of torque expected to be offered with a 7-speed DCT
Competition
Skoda Kushaq will compete with the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Hector, Nissan Kicks, Tata Harrier and XUV500. It is expected to have a competitive price as Skoda aims for 95% localization. Kushaq SUV is expected to launch around March 2021.