by Skoda is getting ready to introduce its new small SUV, which is expected to go on sale early next year. With this new model, Skoda enters a market already crowded with well-known competitors like the Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. Skoda intends to take advantage of substantial localization efforts and tax breaks for vehicles under four metres in order to effectively compete, guaranteeing competitive pricing.
In order to achieve competitive pricing, Piyush Arora, MD and CEO of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, stressed the importance of localization. “We had already stated that we have achieved almost 90 percent localization for India 2.0, and that is the number we want to do for India 2.5 as well,” he said.
Skoda plans to start producing this small SUV in India by January 2025 as part of its India 2.5 plan. Skoda will be able to attain greater economies of scale by utilising the highly localised supplier base for the MQB AO IN-based Skoda and VW vehicles already on the market. A lot of parts and components from larger models, such as the Kushaq, will need to be shared for this, including infotainment, electrical parts, seats, suspension, and instrumentation.
Powertrain Options and Considerations
The small SUV is anticipated to come with heavily localised Indian engines for its powertrain options, specifically the 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol and the 1.0 TSI turbo-petrol units. It is still being determined whether the larger 150 horsepower engine will be practical in the sub-four-meter compact segment. “We have seen that there is a good demand for the 1.5-liter (turbo-petrol engine) in the India 2.0 segment,” Arora clarified. However, we’ll have to wait and see if this actually works for the sub-four-meter compact segment.
This indicates that only the Skoda small SUV with the 1.0-liter TSI engine will qualify for tax breaks due to its shorter than 4-meter length. In line with the 1.5-liter petrol engines found in Maruti Suzuki’s Jimny and Brezza, models equipped with 1.5-liter TSI engines will not qualify for any benefits.
Worldwide Growth and Export Possibilities
The small SUV, which is made in India, will be a global model that reflects Skoda’s increased commitment to global development. The SUV will be exported to markets like Mexico, Africa, and a few South-East Asian markets like Vietnam in addition to meeting domestic demand. This demonstrates Skoda’s resolve to use its Indian operations to its advantage in both domestic and foreign markets.
The Kushaq’s 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine generates 114 horsepower and 178 Nm of torque. Compared to the previous Rapid sedan, which had the same engine but produced 109 horsepower and 175 Nm, this is a slight improvement. Both a six-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic are available for this engine.For daily use, the 1.0-liter engine’s power and smoothness are sufficient. It is quite vibration-free, and the six-speed manual that comes with it is very easy to use. The gearing is perfect for cruising on the highway and in city traffic, and the clutch is light,
The Kushaq has six airbags, ABS and EBD, ESC, hill hold, TPMS, and hill descent control as standard safety features.The Global NCAP awarded the Skoda Kushaq a perfect five-star safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection. The results of the front impact test show that the driver’s and passenger’s head, neck, and knees are well protected.
With its many features, airy atmosphere, and high-quality plastics, the Kushaq’s cabin makes for a comparatively comfortable stay.Skoda gave the Kushaq electric seat adjustments for the driver and front passenger seats in its most recent update, a first for the segment. The cabin has a lot of glossy surfaces that give off a premium impression, but over time they will attract dust and fingerprints.The Kushaq has a decent driving position, ample storage spaces throughout, and a well-organized ergonomic design.There is ample space in the second row of the Kushaq for two adults to sit comfortably.
This vehicle has a centre armrest with cup holders, dual footrests beneath the front seats, and direction-controlled rear air conditioning vents.
With a 385-liter boot capacity, it should be plenty for most weekend excursions.
