Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has achieved a significant milestone with the start of production of the new Kushaq at its state-of-the-art Chakan manufacturing facility in Pune.

Manufactured under the Group’s ‘Make in India, for India and the world’ vision, the new Kushaq strengthens India’s role as a strategic production and export hub within the global Škoda-Volkswagen ecosystem.

Built in India, Engineered for Global Standards

The Kushaq was the first model introduced under the INDIA 2.0 strategy and remains central to SAVWIPL’s localisation-driven growth plan. Developed specifically for Indian road conditions and customer expectations, the SUV blends European driving dynamics with strong value, safety and comfort.

Skoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics Andreas Dick highlighted the importance of the model, calling it the first car developed specifically for a market outside Europe through deep collaboration between India and the Czech Republic. He noted that the rapid start of production in Pune reflects India’s growing integration into the brand’s global manufacturing network.

Premium Upgrades and Enhanced Features

According to Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of SAVWIPL, the new Kushaq represents an evolution of the brand’s European engineering philosophy tailored for Indian families.

The updated SUV introduces several premium features, including:

• Panoramic sunroof
• Rear-seat massage function
• New 8-speed automatic transmission option
• Advanced safety systems
• Enhanced in-cabin comfort features

These additions aim to strengthen the Kushaq’s positioning in India’s competitive mid-size SUV segment while maintaining low ownership costs and high localisation levels.

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Skoda Auto India, described the Kushaq as a transformative product that marked a new chapter for the company in India. He emphasised the brand’s continued focus on expanding its product portfolio, strengthening its dealer network, and maintaining a service-first strategy.

Strong Sales Momentum and 2026 Launch Timeline

The Kushaq has played a pivotal role in SAVWIPL’s growth, contributing significantly to the Group’s record 117,000 units sold in 2025. Its reputation for solid build quality, 5-star safety credentials, and engaging driving dynamics has made it a dependable choice for Indian and international customers alike.

The new Kushaq made its global debut in January 2026, with deliveries scheduled to commence in March. Early pre-booking figures indicate strong customer demand, reinforcing trust in the brand and confidence in India as a global production base.

With production now underway at the Chakan plant, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India is gearing up for an ambitious product offensive in 2026, further cementing India’s importance in the company’s global strategy.