The Skoda Kushaq Facelift has officially been revealed in India, and it is gearing up to challenge one of the most dominant players in the midsize SUV segment—the Hyundai Creta. While Skoda is yet to announce the facelifted Kushaq’s prices, the updated model brings noticeable upgrades in design, cabin experience, features, and powertrain options. With the addition of the sporty Monte Carlo edition, Skoda is clearly aiming to strengthen the Kushaq’s appeal against established rivals.
So how does the refreshed Kushaq stack up against the feature-loaded Hyundai Creta? Let’s compare them across specifications, features, safety, and pricing.
Powertrain and Performance
The Skoda Kushaq Facelift continues with a petrol-only lineup, but with an important mechanical update. Buyers can choose between two turbocharged petrol engines:
- 1.0-litre TSI petrol producing 104 hp and 250 Nm of torque
- 1.5-litre four-cylinder TSI petrol delivering 147 hp and 250 Nm of torque
The highlight here is the segment-first 8-speed torque converter automatic, offered with the 1.0-litre TSI engine. Enthusiasts can opt for the 1.5-litre TSI, which is paired exclusively with a 7-speed DSG automatic, known for quick shifts and engaging performance.
In comparison, the Hyundai Creta offers a wider range of engine options:
- 1.5-litre petrol (115 bhp)
- 1.5-litre diesel (116 bhp)
- 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160 bhp)
Transmission choices on the Creta include a 6-speed manual, CVT, torque converter automatic, and a 7-speed DCT with the turbo-petrol variant. This broader powertrain lineup gives Hyundai an edge in versatility, especially for diesel buyers.
Interior and Features
The Kushaq Facelift’s cabin receives a noticeable upgrade, with a premium dual-tone grey and beige theme, refreshed upholstery, and a more modern layout. The SUV now features a panoramic sunroof, a redesigned digital instrument cluster, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
One of its standout highlights is the segment-first rear seat massage function, along with six-way electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation. The infotainment system also introduces an AI-powered voice assistant backed by Google, supporting natural voice commands and connected features.
The Hyundai Creta, however, continues to set benchmarks for cabin tech and ambience. It comes with a dual 10.25-inch superscreen setup for infotainment and instrumentation, leatherette upholstery, a D-cut steering wheel, and an eight-speaker Bose premium sound system. Features like wireless charging, paddle shifters, multiple drive modes, and 64-colour ambient lighting further elevate the experience.
Connectivity is another strong suit for the Creta, thanks to Hyundai Bluelink connected car technology, OTA updates, Alexa Home-to-Car integration, and a voice-enabled panoramic sunroof.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a strong point for both SUVs, but their approaches differ.
The Skoda Kushaq Facelift comes equipped with:
- Six airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control
- Hill-hold assist
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
- Rain-sensing wipers and rear defogger
- Disc brakes
Skoda also continues to highlight the Kushaq’s 5-star Global NCAP safety credentials, making it a reassuring choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Meanwhile, the Hyundai Creta goes a step further by offering Level 2 ADAS under Hyundai SmartSense. This includes 19 active safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Additional features like a 360-degree camera, dual-zone climate control, ISOFIX mounts, and all-four disc brakes enhance its safety package.
Pricing Expectations
Skoda has not yet revealed the official prices for the Kushaq Facelift, but it is expected to be priced between ₹11 lakh and ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and engine option.
In comparison, the Hyundai Creta is currently priced from ₹10.72 lakh to ₹20.20 lakh (ex-showroom), making it competitively positioned across a wide buyer spectrum.
Verdict: Which SUV Makes More Sense?
The Skoda Kushaq Facelift positions itself as a driver-focused, safety-oriented SUV with premium features like rear seat massage, DSG performance, and a segment-first 8-speed automatic. It is ideal for buyers who prioritise driving dynamics, European engineering, and safety ratings.
The Hyundai Creta, on the other hand, remains the all-rounder of the segment, offering unmatched feature richness, ADAS tech, multiple powertrain options (including diesel), and a highly polished cabin experience.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to priorities:
- Choose the Kushaq for performance, safety, and driving pleasure
- Choose the Creta for features, tech, and powertrain variety