Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL), has announced the Start of Production (SoP) of the Left-hand Drive version of the Škoda Kushaq. This was the first model to be launched in the country under the Group’s India 2.0 project. The ‘Made in India’ Škoda Kushaq LHD will be exported to global markets shortly.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Piyush Arora, Managing Director of SAVWIPL said, “Since its world premiere in India last year, the ŠKODA KUSHAQ has created a strong market presence and contributed significantly to the success of the brand and the Group in India. This world-class SUV, which will soon be heading to international markets, will showcase India’s manufacturing excellence on a global stage. With each new model we export, we are inching closer to our aim of making India an export hub for the VW Group globally. With its exceptional design, build quality, and performance, we are confident the KUSHAQ will enjoy phenomenal success in other markets, as well.”
The Kushaq is currently priced between ₹11.29 lakh and ₹18.79 lakh ex-showroom and goes up against the likes of Volkswagen Taigun, Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The Kushaq was recently updated with new features. The new updated features will include a new Headliner in the cabin and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System as standard across the range. Now, all variants that are powered by the 1.0 TSI will get the Start-Stop Recuperation system as standard. The updated Kushaq will deliver 7-9% more fuel efficiency. The cabin features a new 20.32cm Škoda Infotainment System with knobs and buttons for select functions for increased ergonomics and ease of use for the driver. As a part of this update Non-Sunroof (NSR) Style trim has also been introduced.
Which comes between the current Ambition and Style variants. This new variant will be based on the 1.0 TSI Style and will come with a 4-dial medium analogue instrument cluster and exclusive with the 6-speed manual transmission. While The top-of-the-line Style variant with the Sunroof gets a 20.32 cm Škoda Virtual Cockpit for the driver’s instrument console in place of analogue dials. The update includes the tested 1.0 TSI engine with a 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic. The Skoda will also be continuing the current 1.5 TSI EVO engine with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG automatic. With the addition of a new Skoda, Kushaq trim will be available in 5 variants, namely Active, Ambition, Style (NSR), Style, and the recently launched Kushaq Monte Carlo.