Buying a used Skoda Kushaq: what to look out for

The Kushaq is Skoda’s competitor in the fiercely contested midsize SUV segment and goes up against established players like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. Launched in 2021, the Kushaq stands out for its strong engines and sorted ride and handling, and as such, makes for an ideal used buy for the family buyer looking for a fun-to-drive car. But here’s what you should know before you buy one.

Skoda Kushaq powertrain options

115hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol can be had with either a 6-speed manual or torque converter automatic.

Powering the Kushaq is a pair of direct injection turbo-petrol engines. The first is a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI unit that produces 115hp and 178Nm, and the other is a larger 1.5-litre, four-cylinder TSI unit that develops 150hp and 250Nm. Both engines get a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard. Additionally, they also get the option of automatic gearboxes – a 6-speed torque converter for the 1.0 TSI and a 7-speed dual-clutch auto (DSG) for the 1.5 TSI.

Speaking of fuel efficiency, in our real-world tests, the 1.0 MT managed 13.05kpl, while the 1.0 AT did 10.45kpl. The 1.5 TSI, meanwhile, returned 14kpl, thanks in part to its cylinder deactivation technology, while the DSG returned 12.15kpl. Do note, these figures represent a combined city and highway driving cycle.

Both engines are punchy, but enthusiasts will appreciate the added kick of the larger 1.5 TSI motor. The fact that it’s more fuel-efficient than the smaller 1.0 TSI is also a bonus. But if you don’t want to shell out the extra cash for the 1.5 and just want something to commute in, the 1.0 TSI does the job well. The 6-speed AT is also a smooth unit and is the one we’d recommend, but beware of its low efficiency.

Skoda Kushaq trims and features

Textured elements on the dash and two-spoke steering add a sense of style.

At launch, the Kushaq was offered in three trim levels – Active, Ambition and Style. Further down the line, a range-topping Monte Carlo trim was added, while the Matte and Elegance editions were offered later.

As for features, the Style trim gets a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, leatherette seats, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, a wireless charger, LED lights, a sunroof and more. On top of this, the Monte Carlo adds blacked-out trim and different alloys on the outside, and a dual-tone red-black theme as well as an 8-inch digital instrument cluster on the inside. Safety kit on the top-spec trim includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, rear parking camera, auto headlamps and wipers, a tyre pressure monitor and hill-start assist. All variants come with two airbags and ESC as standard.

If you are on a tight budget, you’ll find good value in the Ambition trim, but if you want to see the Kushaq in its best light, the Style is the one to go for. You can also opt for the Monte Carlo or the Matte edition for a bit of added sportiness.

Skoda Kushaq maintainence

The Kushaq is a fairly reliable SUV; Skoda service centres are widespread and getting spare parts shouldn’t be an issue either. Do note though, certain components of the 1.5 TSIs will be expensive to replace. What’s nice is that it comes with a standard warranty of 4 years/1,00,000km, which means you’ll be buying a car that’s still covered under warranty.

What to look out for in a used Skoda Kushaq?

AC cooling

Owners have complained about insufficient cooling from the Kushaq’s HVAC system and Skoda has also acknowledged this issue in the past. The company even rolled out a software update to rectify this, so check if the AC cools the cabin effectively before purchasing. It may also be worth getting the AC system inspected by a technician.

Interior rattles

Quite uncharacteristic for a Skoda, some owners have complained about rattling sounds inside the cabin as the car ages. Before buying, drive the car you’re looking at through a rough patch of road and listen out for any rattles or squeaks coming from the dashboard or door cards.

Also worth knowing

Soon after launch, Skoda announced a recall to replace faulty fuel pumps. The replacement was carried out free of cost at service centres, so if you are looking at an early lot model, ensure this has been done. Furthermore, it’s also worth inspecting the DSG gearbox. While driving, check if the car shifts smoothly and that there are no sudden jerks as this could be a sign of trouble.

Second hand Skoda Kushaq price and resale value

There’s plenty of examples in the used market but don’t look to spend over Rs 15 lakh. The 1.0 MT can be found for around Rs 10 lakh, while the 1.5 TSI DSG should be in the Rs 15 lakh area. Also, there’s always scope to negotiate the price down further.