One of the most talked-about mid-size SUVs in the Indian market at the moment is the Skoda Kushaq. Skoda has earlier released the exterior sketches of the Creta-rival and now they have even revealed the interior sketches. This will be VW-Skoda’s first product under their Indian 2.0 initiative under which, they have developed the MQB A0 IN platform specifically for our market. Based on that very platform, we will also see the mid-size SUV from Volkswagen, the Taigun which is slated for launch after the Kushaq. Both these cars will try to challenge the highest-selling SUV in the country in Hyundai Creta. Knowing the mighty task at hand and how difficult it’s going to be, Skoda is trying all that it could to promote the SUV before the unveil. Earlier, it gave the SUV to certain media personnel to drive and was open for feedback.
Also read: Skoda releases exterior sketches of the Kushaq – Resembles the concept!
Skoda wants to make sure that all the aspects are taken care of before the official launch of the Kushaq. This includes the pricing element as well. It has managed to achieve 92% localization and aims to achieve upto 95% localization by the time the Kushaq officially launches. This will help immensely in keeping the costs in check, which might well turn out to be the make or break factor in deciding the fate of the Kushaq in India. For now, however, let us take a look at what the sketches tell us about the interior design of the Kushaq.
Also read: Why are companies like VW, Skoda, Jeep and Citroen focussing on localisation!
Skoda Kushaq – Interior Sketches
Skoda kept the details of the Kushaq hidden for a long time but now, it has revealed it as the official unveil is coming closer. The interior sketches are quite vivid and all the details of the interiors are clearly visible. The overall design language feels premium and sophisticated with modern elements including a free-standing 10-inch Digital Touchscreen Infotainment System with all the latest connected features, a large Digital Instrument Cluster to display all the relevant information to the driver, hexagonal air-con vents, various body-coloured inserts on the interiors including on the dashboard, plenty of cubby holes for your little items, sturdy-looking door panels, dual-tone interior design theme, Steering Controls and neat centre console with AC controls. By the looks of it, Skoda has really played to its strengths and the quality, as well as fit and finish, is expected to be top-notch. To challenge the segment leader, it needs to stand out and keep continuing what it has always been known for.
Also read: MG ZS petrol to be named Astor – Spy shots of the Creta-rival!
Skoda Kushaq – Safety features and engines
Moving on to some other features that have been confirmed by the automaker. The Skoda Kushaq will come with a lot of safety tech including 6 Airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), Hill-Hold Function, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Auto Headlights and Wipers and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. The ESC will be standard across all the variants of the Kushaq.
Also read: VW Taigun spotted testing – What to expect from the Creta-rival!
One of the things that is revealed by the automaker is the engine and transmission combinations that the Kushaq will come with. We will see the legendary 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol engine and its bigger sibling, the 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol unit in action with the Kushaq. Complementing these engines will be various transmission options including a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic and a 7-speed DSG (DCT) gearbox. We expect the prices of the Skoda Kushaq to be competitive in the range of Rs 10 lakh and Rs 18 lakh, ex-showroom.
