Skoda Kushaq: A Comprehensive Review of India's Safety and Comfortable SUV
The Skoda Kushaq has been a standout in the Indian market, delivering exceptional safety scores along with a comfortable ride and versatile features. This article delves into the specifications, performance, and overall experience of owning a Skoda Kushaq.
Performance and Safety Ratings
The Skoda Kushaq has earned a well-deserved reputation for its superior safety. According to the Indian Safety Rating System, it received a 5-star rating and 29.64 points out of 34 for adult occupants. Furthermore, the Kushaq achieved a remarkable 5-star rating and 42.00 points out of 49 for child occupants, making it the only car in India to offer such advanced child safety measures. This comprehensive safety record highlights the vehicle's commitment to protecting both adults and children in all driving conditions.
Engine Options and Features
The Skoda Kushaq is equipped with two powerful engine options: a 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine and a more robust 1.5-litre TSI Evo petrol engine. The 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine provides a peak output of 113bhp and 178Nm of torque, while the 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine cranks out a more impressive 148bhp and 250Nm of torque. This versatile powertrain offers drivers a choice of performance and efficiency based on their needs.
Customers can choose between various transmission options, including a six-speed manual, a six-speed torque converter, and a DSG dual-clutch automatic. These transmission options cater to a wide range of driving preferences, ensuring a smooth and reliable driving experience.
Ride Quality and Comfort
Driving on smooth surfaces, the Kushaq impresses with its superior ride quality. The vehicle handles potholes and rough surfaces with grace, thanks to its excellent suspension system that absorbs bumps without causing discomfort. Equipped with 205/55 section tyres wrapped around 17-inch alloy wheels, even sharp creases on the road are cushioned with notable suppleness. At highway speeds, the Kushaq maintains a pleasant ride, with minimal vertical movements over larger undulations.
Passengers entering the Kushaq will appreciate the spacious interior with good roof height and spot-on seat height. The dashboard features a striking monochromatic driver's display, complemented by old-school analogue dials for speedometer and tachometer. The centre MID screen is designed in a black-and-white format, showcasing only the essential information. A distinct feature is the all-new steering wheel, which mirrors the design found in the Octavia, but lacks the solid tactile feel of some buttons.
Safety Features and Comfort Amenities
Forging ahead with its commitment to safety, the Kushaq comes fully equipped with an extensive array of features. These include cooled seats, a wireless charger, single-zone climate control, an electric sunroof, auto headlamps and wipers, cruise control, smartphone connectivity, a rear parking camera, auto-dimming IRVM (Intelligent Rearview Mirror), a cooled glovebox, and ambient lighting. Each of these features not only enhances comfort but also boosts convenience and security.
A robust safety net is also in place with six airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), hill-hold control, multi-collision brake assist, rear parking sensors, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), traction control, ISOFIX child-seat mounts, and other essential safety features. These comprehensive safety measures provide peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike.
Verdict
The Skoda Kushaq emerges as a handsome and appealing crossover, offering a premium European driving experience at an accessible price point. While it lacks a diesel engine option, the petrol engines deliver respectable performance. Additionally, many buyers may appreciate the tunable performance across the different engine options available. The Kushaq, available for around INR 10.50 lakh to 17.60 lakh, stands out as a sensible and comfortable choice for daily use, positioning itself as a gateway to a premium European brand.
For those in the market for a reliable and comfortable SUV, the Skoda Kushaq is well worth considering. With its robust safety features, impressive ride quality, and comprehensive list of amenities, it delivers a standout driving experience.