In a strategic move to strengthen its position in India’s competitive compact SUV market, Skoda Auto India is reportedly developing a lower-spec variant of the Kushaq. This new version is expected to cater to budget-conscious buyers who aspire to own a premium European SUV at a more accessible price point.
Launched initially in 2021, the Skoda Kushaq has gained a solid reputation for its build quality, refined TSI engines, and European driving dynamics. However, its price range, which starts above ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom), has been a barrier for many value-driven customers.
With growing competition from players like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Tata Nexon, Skoda is now aiming to widen its buyer base by introducing a cost-effective variant of the Kushaq without compromising its core strengths.
Let’s take a detailed look at what this new variant might offer, what it could miss out on, and how it may affect the compact SUV segment.
🚗 Why Skoda Is Introducing a Lower-Spec Kushaq
Skoda’s India 2.0 strategy focuses on localization and affordability, and this upcoming lower-spec Kushaq fits right into that vision. By targeting the sub-₹10 lakh bracket, Skoda can compete with high-volume models like:
- Hyundai Venue (base variants)
- Tata Nexon
- Maruti Brezza
- Mahindra XUV300
- Kia Sonet
The company also aims to bring first-time SUV buyers and upgraders from hatchbacks into the Skoda family.
🛠️ Expected Features of the New Base Variant
Skoda is likely to cut down on certain non-essential or premium features to bring the price down while retaining safety, structural integrity, and core mechanical components.
Here’s what we can expect in the base model:
✅ Likely to Be Retained:
- 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine (113 bhp)
- 6-speed manual transmission
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Body-colored bumpers and door handles
- Basic MID (multi-info display)
- Manual air conditioning
- Power steering
- All 4 power windows
- Manual central locking
❌ Likely to Be Removed or Downgraded:
- Touchscreen infotainment system
- Alloy wheels (may get steel rims)
- Push-button start/stop
- Automatic climate control
- Cruise control
- LED headlamps (may get halogen units)
- Premium upholstery
- Rear wiper and washer
- Fog lamps
- Connected car tech
By stripping down on such features, the base variant could become at least ₹1.5–₹2 lakh cheaper than the current entry-level Active variant.
⚙️ Engine and Performance
Skoda is unlikely to alter its proven powertrain setup for this base variant.
✅ Expected Engine Details:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0-litre 3-cylinder TSI Petrol |
| Power Output | 113 bhp |
| Torque | 178 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual (no automatic in base variant) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | Around 18–19 km/l |
This engine is well-known for delivering lively performance while being fuel-efficient, making it an excellent fit for both urban and highway drives.
💰 Expected Pricing
The current base model of the Kushaq is priced at around ₹11.89 lakh (ex-showroom). If Skoda successfully cuts down on features, the new base variant could start as low as ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
This will allow it to compete directly with:
- Tata Nexon XE
- Hyundai Venue E/S
- Kia Sonet HTE
- Mahindra XUV300 W4
Such pricing could attract hatchback upgraders who want a robust, globally-tested product.
🧩 Positioning in the Market
While rivals like Hyundai and Kia already offer multiple base and mid variants across price bands, Skoda currently lacks a variant below ₹11 lakh. This gap has cost them considerable volumes in the mass market.
By introducing this base variant, Skoda will:
- Expand its reach to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities
- Compete in fleet, government, and corporate sales
- Increase overall market penetration without heavily altering its premium brand image
📅 Expected Launch Timeline
Although Skoda has not officially announced the launch date, industry sources suggest this new base variant could be introduced before the festive season in 2025 — most likely by September or October.
This timing aligns with increased buyer sentiment during Navratri and Diwali, when car sales typically see a big boost.
🏁 Skoda Kushaq Base Variant – Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- More affordable entry point into Skoda ownership
- Same TSI engine and core safety as higher trims
- Ideal for budget buyers wanting a premium badge
- Competitive against Korean and Indian rivals
❌ Cons:
- Will miss out on many premium features
- No automatic variant likely
- May not appeal to tech-savvy or comfort-focused buyers
Still, for practical buyers focused on reliability, performance, and safety, this stripped-down version could be the perfect balance between cost and quality.
🔧 After-Sales Support & Warranty
Skoda has recently improved its after-sales image in India. With this variant, customers will still enjoy:
- 4-year/1,00,000 km standard warranty
- Extended warranty & service packages available
- Growing dealer and service center network under India 2.0 strategy
These factors add long-term value to what may seem like a basic trim on the surface.
💬 Final Thoughts
The new lower-spec variant of the Skoda Kushaq has the potential to change the game for the brand in India. By maintaining performance, safety, and brand trust while offering a significantly lower entry price, Skoda could finally capture a bigger chunk of the compact SUV segment.
This move not only makes the Kushaq more accessible but also broadens Skoda’s appeal to middle-class families, working professionals, and practical buyers who prioritize build quality and driving pleasure over flashy features.
If you’re in the market for a robust, German-engineered SUV under ₹10 lakh, this upcoming Kushaq variant might just be the one to watch.
Hello, my name is Muskan Kumari and I am an experienced Digital Marketer. I have been blogging for the last 3 years and I have special interest in SEO. Here I give you easy bikes and writes easy-to-understand reviews and news about the latest bikes, helping readers choose the best options.. My aim is to always provide you with accurate, new and useful information.
