The Skoda Kushaq name has its roots in Sanskrit
It’s been a while since we have all been running behind the India-spec SUV from Volkswagen-Skoda alliance. We had earlier seen the Skoda Vision IN concept at the Auto Expo. The latest updates suggest that the production model of the Vision IN concept will be called the Kushaq. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word “Kushak” meaning “king” or “emperor”. The Kushaq will be the flag-bearer of Skoda’s India 2.0 project.
“The new ŠKODA KUSHAQ will offer a compelling combination of the brand’s timeless design ideals, unmatched performance, superior build quality, exemplary value proposition, and enhanced safety and security. It is deemed to be the best seller in its class, setting the benchmark for functionality, practicality, spaciousness, and convenience.”
Mr. Zac Hollis, Brand Director – ŠKODA AUTO India
The Kushaq is built on the MQB A0 IN platform, a heavily localized iteration of the popular MQB A0 platform from Volkswagen Group. This will underpin various models from the Volkswagen-Skoda stable in the upcoming years. The compact SUV is set to be unveiled soon and will go up against the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Hector, Tata Harrier, etc.
The Kushaq will feature the signature Skoda design quo with split LED headlamps with LED DRLs and the butterfly grille at the front, a set of 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, the big bold SKODA badging on the boot-lid, etc.
On the inside, there will be no shortage of features. The Kushaq is expected to come equipped with premium features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, multi-zone auto climate control air-con, digital instrumentation, wireless smartphone charging, ventilated seats along with other connected car features and safety assist technologies.
The Kushaq will either come equipped with a 3-cylinder 1.0L TSI turbo-petrol producing 110hp and 175nm of torque, seen in the Rapid and the Vento or a 1.5L 4-cylinder TSI petrol mill with 150hp and 250Nm on tap. The transmission options will include a six-speed manual and a seven-speed DSG automatic. Further details on the car remain to be seen. Skoda is prepping the Kushaq for a summer launch.
