The Škoda Auto has updated the Skoda Kushaq for 2026 with added features, refreshed trims and improved equipment levels. However, despite these upgrades, the Kushaq facelift still falls short in a few key areas where several rivals in the midsize SUV segment have moved ahead.
If you’re considering the Kushaq facelift, here’s a detailed look at eight important features it still misses out on, many of which are now common in competing SUVs.
1. No Level 2 ADAS
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are becoming mainstream in India. SUVs like the Honda Elevate and MG Astor offer Level 2 ADAS with features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq, however, continues without any ADAS tech, which is a noticeable omission at this price point.
2. Missing 360-Degree Surround View Camera
While the Kushaq facelift gets a reverse camera, it still lacks a surround-view (360-degree) camera system. Many rivals, including the Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra, offer this feature on higher trims.
A 360-degree camera greatly simplifies tight parking and urban driving—something Kushaq buyers may miss, especially in crowded Indian cities.
3. No Premium Branded Audio System
Most competitors now boast branded audio setups. The Kia Seltos, for instance, offers a Bose sound system, while Tata SUVs use JBL units with subwoofers and advanced tuning.
The Kushaq facelift makes do with Skoda’s in-house 6-speaker system with a subwoofer—adequate, but not class-leading.
4. Single-Zone Climate Control Only
Even on its top Prestige and Monte Carlo trims, the Kushaq facelift sticks to single-zone automatic climate control. Rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos offer dual-zone climate control, allowing the driver and passenger to set individual temperatures—an increasingly expected premium feature.
5. No Powered Tailgate
Powered tailgates enhance convenience, especially when loading luggage. SUVs like the Tata Curvv and Tata Sierra even offer gesture-controlled tailgates.
Despite its premium positioning, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq continues with a manual tailgate across all variants.
6. No Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
An electronic parking brake with auto-hold makes stop-and-go traffic far more comfortable. Competitors such as the MG Astor offer this feature, but the Kushaq still relies on a conventional manual handbrake.
7. Rear Sunshades Not Offered
Rear sunshades are extremely useful in India’s hot climate, improving comfort and privacy for rear-seat passengers. Models like the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara offer this feature on select trims, but the Kushaq facelift misses out entirely.
8. No Ventilated Rear Seats
While front ventilated seats are becoming common, rear seat ventilation is still rare. The Kushaq facelift introduces rear-seat massage—a segment-first—but stops short of offering ventilated rear seats, which would have been a major comfort upgrade for Indian summers.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift improves on many fronts, especially safety, design and cabin features. However, the absence of ADAS, a 360-degree camera, premium audio and several convenience features means it trails some key rivals in perceived value.
For buyers who prioritise driving dynamics and solid build quality, the Kushaq still makes sense. But if tech, convenience and segment-leading features top your checklist, alternatives like the Creta, Seltos or Astor may feel more future-ready.
