Škoda Kushaq: Zabardast SUV with 19.76 kmpl Mileage Under 19 Lakh
Are you in the market for a compact SUV that offers style, performance, and value without breaking the bank? Look no further than the Škoda Kushaq.
This Czech beauty has been turning heads since its launch, providing a compelling package for discerning buyers. But how does it stack up against rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Škoda Kushaq a standout option in the competitive compact SUV segment.
Design and Exterior
The Škoda Kushaq makes a bold statement with its muscular and modern design. Its commanding presence on the road is hard to ignore. But does this compact SUV’s looks match its performance?
One of the Kushaq’s most striking features is its impressive ground clearance of 188mm. This makes it well-suited for tackling rough terrain and navigating urban obstacles with ease. The car’s compact dimensions (4,225mm length, 1,760mm width, and 1,612mm height) make it perfect for city driving and tight parking spots.
The Kushaq’s exterior also boasts some premium touches, such as:
- LED headlamps with signature daytime running lights
- 16-inch to 17-inch alloy wheel options
- Distinctive Škoda grille with chrome accents
- Roof rails for added visual appeal and functionality
These design elements contribute to the Kushaq’s modern and youthful appearance, setting it apart from other compact SUVs in the market. The sleek profile not only looks good but also helps in achieving an impressive aerodynamic performance, enhancing the vehicle’s efficiency and stability at higher speeds.
Interior Comfort and Features
Step inside the Škoda Kushaq, and you’ll be greeted by a well-crafted interior that blends comfort with functionality. The cabin is designed to provide a premium feel while maintaining practicality for everyday use.
The Kushaq’s interior highlights include:
- A 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Automatic climate control with rear AC vents
- Comfortable seating with ample legroom and headroom
- 360-degree camera system for easy parking and maneuvering
One standout feature is the Kushaq’s ventilated front seats, which are a boon in hot Indian summers. The interior also offers plenty of storage spaces and a generous boot capacity of 385 liters, which can be expanded by folding the rear seats.
Higher variants of the Kushaq offer additional premium features like a sunroof, wireless phone charger, and ambient lighting. The interior also incorporates Škoda’s “Simply Clever” features, including smartphone pockets on the front seatbacks and a ticket holder on the A-pillar.
Engine Performance and Efficiency
The Škoda Kushaq offers two petrol engine options to cater to different driving needs and preferences. Let’s break down the performance specs:
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission | Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L TSI Turbo Petrol | 114 bhp @ 5000-5500 rpm | 178 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm | 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic | 19.76 kmpl |
| 1.5L TSI Turbo Petrol | 148 bhp @ 5000-6000 rpm | 250 Nm @ 1600-3500 rpm | 6-speed manual / 7-speed DSG automatic | 18.86 kmpl |
Both engines offer a good balance of power and efficiency. The 1.0-liter engine provides peppy performance in city traffic, while the 1.5-liter option offers more grunt for highway cruising and overtaking. The 7-speed DSG automatic transmission, available with the 1.5-liter engine, is particularly smooth and responsive.
Fuel efficiency is a strong suit for the Škoda Kushaq. With ARAI-claimed figures of up to 19.76 kmpl for the 1.0-liter manual variant, it’s one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment. Real-world mileage may vary, but many users report getting between 15-17 kmpl in mixed driving conditions.
Ride and Handling
How does the Škoda Kushaq perform on Indian roads? The car’s suspension setup is tuned to handle rough patches and potholes with ease. The high ground clearance adds to its ability to tackle uneven surfaces without scraping the underbody.
In city driving, the Kushaq shines with its light steering and compact dimensions. Maneuvering through tight spaces and parking in cramped spots is a breeze. At higher speeds, the steering weighs up nicely, providing good feedback and stability on highways.
The Kushaq’s handling is one of its strongest points, offering a good balance between comfort and sportiness. There’s minimal body roll when taking sharp turns, which is impressive for an SUV in this class. Overall, the ride quality is comfortable for daily commutes and enjoyable for enthusiastic driving on winding roads.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority in the Škoda Kushaq, and it comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of features. Some key safety highlights include:
- 6 airbags (standard across all variants)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Multi-collision braking
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
- Hill-hold control
The Kushaq has received a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, which speaks volumes about its structural integrity and overall safety. This makes it one of the safest options in its segment, providing peace of mind for families and safety-conscious buyers.
Pricing and Variants
The Škoda Kushaq is available in multiple variants to suit different budgets and requirements. Here’s a quick overview of the Kushaq’s variant lineup and their ex-showroom prices (Delhi):
| Variant | Engine | Transmission | Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 1.0L TSI | Manual | ₹10.89 Lakh |
| Signature | 1.0L TSI | Manual | ₹13.99 Lakh |
| Monte Carlo | 1.5L TSI | DSG | ₹18.60 Lakh |
| Prestige | 1.5L TSI | DSG | ₹18.79 Lakh |
The mid-range variants offer the best value for money, balancing features and affordability. The top-end Monte Carlo and Prestige variants come with additional styling elements and features for those who want a more premium experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. What is the mileage of Škoda Kushaq?
The ARAI-certified mileage of the Škoda Kushaq ranges from 18.86 kmpl for the 1.5L TSI variant to 19.76 kmpl for the 1.0L TSI manual version. Real-world fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and style.
Q2. Is Škoda Kushaq good for long drives?
Yes, the Škoda Kushaq is well-suited for long drives. Its comfortable seating, smooth ride quality, and efficient turbocharged engines make it a good choice for highway cruising. The ample boot space also allows for plenty of luggage on road trips.
Q3. What is the ground clearance of Škoda Kushaq?
The Škoda Kushaq boasts a ground clearance of 188mm, which is suitable for tackling rough roads and speed bumps with ease. While not the highest in its class, it’s more than adequate for most urban and light off-road conditions.
Q4. How many airbags does Škoda Kushaq have?
The Škoda Kushaq comes with 6 airbags as standard across all variants. This includes dual front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags, enhancing occupant safety in the event of a collision.
Q5. What is the boot space of Škoda Kushaq?
The Škoda Kushaq offers a boot space of 385 liters, which can be expanded by folding the rear seats. While not the largest in its class, it’s sufficient for most daily needs and weekend getaways.
Wrapping Up
The Škoda Kushaq presents an attractive package for buyers looking for a stylish, well-built, and fun-to-drive compact SUV. Its striking design, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient turbocharged engines make it a compelling choice in the competitive SUV segment. While it may face stiff competition from established players, the Kushaq offers excellent value for money and stands out with its European build quality and driving dynamics. If you’re in the market for a premium compact SUV that prioritizes performance and safety, the Škoda Kushaq is definitely worth considering.
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