Skoda Kushaq: Skoda Auto India has witnessed a remarkable surge in sales following the launch of the Monte Carlo edition of its popular compact SUV, the Kushaq. The special edition, adorned with distinctive red and black aesthetics, has breathed new life into the model’s sales figures, pushing Skoda’s market share in the competitive SUV segment to 7.3% in the first quarter of 2025.
Monte Carlo Magic: More Than Just a Cosmetic Upgrade
The Monte Carlo badge, borrowed from Skoda’s rally heritage, transforms the Kushaq from merely practical to genuinely desirable. Unlike typical special editions that merely slap on some stickers and call it a day, Skoda has gone the extra mile here.
“We’ve seen incredible demand for the Monte Carlo variant,” says Vinay Prakash, who recently took over as Director of Sales for Skoda Auto India. “About 35% of all Kushaq bookings are now for the Monte Carlo, significantly higher than our initial projection of 20%.”
The distinctive gloss black grille, red-stitched leatherette seats, and aluminum pedals give the interior a sporty vibe that younger buyers seem to be lapping up. The 10-inch infotainment screen, draped in Monte Carlo-specific graphics, pairs seamlessly with both Android and Apple devices, making it a tech-lover’s delight without overwhelming less tech-savvy drivers.
Turbocharged Performance Meets Real-World Efficiency
Under the hood, the Kushaq Monte Carlo continues with the same powertrain options as the standard model – the eager 1.0-liter TSI producing 115hp and the more potent 1.5-liter TSI pushing out 150hp. The latter, paired with the slick 7-speed DSG automatic, delivers a driving experience that feels decidedly European compared to some of its Asian rivals.
“I drove from Mumbai to Pune last weekend, and the Kushaq averaged 16.7km/l despite my heavy right foot on the expressway,” says Rishabh Sharma, a 32-year-old IT professional who picked up his Monte Carlo last month. “The 1.5 TSI has this wonderful ability to be frugal when cruising and properly quick when you want it to be.”
Skoda claims that refinements to the engine management software have improved fuel efficiency by approximately 5% over the previous model year without compromising performance – a claim that seems to hold water based on owner feedback and independent testing.
Safety First: Six Airbags Now Standard Across Range
In a significant move that reflects changing consumer priorities in the Indian market, Skoda has made six airbags standard across all Kushaq variants for 2025, ahead of impending government regulations. This upgrade comes without a substantial price increase, enhancing the value proposition of the already safety-focused SUV.
The Kushaq’s 5-star Global NCAP rating continues to feature prominently in Skoda’s marketing materials, with the company’s internal data suggesting that safety has become the third most important consideration for Kushaq buyers, up from fifth place just two years ago.
“Indian consumers are increasingly unwilling to compromise on safety,” notes automotive analyst Vikram Gaikwad. “Skoda’s decision to standardize six airbags across the range is both timely and strategically sound.”
Electrification on the Horizon: Hybrid Kushaq Confirmed for 2026
Perhaps the most exciting news from Skoda’s recent dealer conference in Prague was the confirmation that a hybrid version of the Kushaq will hit Indian shores by mid-2026. While specific details remain under wraps, sources suggest it will utilize a 48V mild-hybrid system paired with the 1.5 TSI engine, potentially boosting both performance and efficiency.
“The hybrid Kushaq represents our commitment to sustainable mobility solutions that don’t compromise on the driving experience,” stated Martin Jahn, Skoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, during a virtual press conference. “India is a key market for our electrification strategy, and the Kushaq hybrid will be just the beginning.”
The company has also hinted at dedicated fast-charging infrastructure being developed in partnership with major Indian oil marketing companies, suggesting that plug-in hybrid or fully electric variants might follow the mild-hybrid introduction.
Skoda Kushaq: Expanded Service Network Addresses After-Sales Concerns
Recognizing that service network limitations have historically hampered European brands in India, Skoda has aggressively expanded its service footprint to 275 touchpoints across 150 cities – a nearly 40% increase over two years ago.
“The workshop experience has improved dramatically,” confirms Anita Desai, a Kushaq owner from Ahmedabad. “Parts availability is no longer the issue it once was, and the service costs have become much more transparent and reasonable.”
With competitive maintenance packages, extended warranty options, and a rapidly growing service network, Skoda seems determined to lay to rest the perception that European cars are expensive to maintain in India – a crucial factor in the Kushaq’s growing success story.