Production of the 2026 Škoda Kushaq has officially begun at the Chakan facility in Pune, reinforcing India’s growing stature as a key global manufacturing base for the Volkswagen Group.
Manufactured by Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL), the new Kushaq builds on the SUV that first spearheaded the Group’s INDIA 2.0 strategy. With this updated version, the brand is doubling down on its “Make in India, for India and the world” vision — serving domestic buyers while also supporting exports.
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Premium Upgrades and Performance Enhancements
The 2026 Kushaq arrives with meaningful feature upgrades aimed at raising comfort and driving dynamics within its segment.
Key Highlights:
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Segment-first rear seat massage function for enhanced passenger comfort
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Panoramic sunroof for a more premium and spacious cabin feel
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New 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission, offering smoother performance and improved drivability
Safety continues to remain central to the SUV’s appeal. The Kushaq maintains its 5-star safety rating for both driver and passengers and offers up to 40 active and passive safety features, reinforcing its reputation as one of the safer choices in its category.
Strategic Importance for India
The Kushaq holds special significance for Škoda Auto as it was the first vehicle developed specifically for a market outside Europe through collaboration between India and the Czech Republic.
Leadership within the Group has emphasized how quickly production ramp-up in Pune reflects India’s deep integration into the company’s global manufacturing network. The Chakan plant continues to deliver production quality aligned with international standards, strengthening India’s role not just as a growth market, but as a key export hub.
Under the leadership of SAVWIPL’s management, the new Kushaq is positioned as an evolution — combining European engineering DNA with features tailored for Indian customers.
A Product That Shaped the INDIA 2.0 Era
The Kushaq marked the beginning of a new chapter under the INDIA 2.0 strategy. It introduced:
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High localisation levels
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World-class manufacturing at Pune
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European driving dynamics adapted for Indian roads
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A focus on democratizing premium technology
The 2026 update builds on this foundation while expanding the brand’s product push for the year.
Sales Momentum and Market Response
The Kushaq has been a major contributor to SAVWIPL’s recent milestones:
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117,000 units sold in 2025 (record-breaking performance)
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2 million locally produced vehicles milestone achieved in 2025
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Overwhelming response following its global premiere in January 2026
Deliveries of the new Kushaq are scheduled to begin in March 2026.
SAVWIPL Operations Snapshot
Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited oversees operations for six brands in India:
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Škoda
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Volkswagen
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Audi
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Porsche
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Lamborghini
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Bentley
Manufacturing Footprint:
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Two plants: Chakan (Pune) and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
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Combined annual capacity: 315,000 units
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700,000+ “Made in India” vehicles exported to over 40 countries
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500,000+ locally built models (Kushaq, Slavia, Taigun, Virtus, Kylaq) sold in 2025
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Nearly 700 customer touchpoints across India
FAQs
When will deliveries begin?
Deliveries for the 2026 Škoda Kushaq start in March 2026.
What are the standout new features?
Rear seat massage function, panoramic sunroof, and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Where is it manufactured?
At the Chakan plant in Pune, operated by Škoda Auto Volkswagen India.
Is it safe?
Yes. The Kushaq continues to offer a 5-star safety rating supported by up to 40 safety features.
Final Take
With production now underway, the 2026 Škoda Kushaq represents more than just a mid-cycle update. It signals India’s expanding role in global automotive manufacturing while strengthening the brand’s commitment to safety, innovation, and premium features within reach.
If early response is any indication, this SUV is set to continue its strong run in the Indian market — and beyond.