2025 has been a landmark year for Skoda India, highlighted by the introduction of two all-new models: the Kodiaq premium SUV and the Octavia RS performance sedan. Looking ahead, Skoda is preparing to refresh its mass-market offerings, with facelifts for the Kushaq and Slavia scheduled for 2026. Both midsize models will receive significant updates, enhancing their appeal in India’s highly competitive automotive market.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Elevating the Midsize SUV
Expected Launch: Q1 2026
Estimated Price: ₹11 lakh–₹18 lakh
Spy images suggest that the Kushaq facelift will feature subtle front and rear styling updates, possibly including full-length LED light bars. While interior changes remain largely under wraps, minor tweaks to trims, materials, and colour options are anticipated.
Skoda is aiming to make the Kushaq stand out among competitors such as the Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, and Maruti Grand Vitara. A notable addition could be a rear-seat massage function, a segment-first feature. Other interior enhancements may include updated graphics for the digital driver display and touchscreen.
Safety and Technology Upgrades
The facelifted Kushaq is expected to receive a Level 2 ADAS suite, all-wheel disc brakes on the 1.5 TSI variants, and a 360-degree camera system. AC performance improvements and a potential panoramic sunroof are also on the cards. The current petrol engines — the 115hp 1.0 TSI and 150hp 1.5 TSI — are likely to remain unchanged, although the 6-speed torque converter automatic may be replaced with an 8-speed unit.
Skoda Slavia Facelift: Refreshing the Sedan
Expected Launch: Q4 2026
Estimated Price: ₹10 lakh–₹18 lakh
The Slavia facelift arrives at a critical time, coinciding with updates for rivals like the Honda City and Hyundai Verna. Skoda’s badge-engineered cousin, the Volkswagen Virtus, may also see a refresh next year.
Design and Feature Enhancements
Spy photos indicate that the Slavia’s overall silhouette will remain similar to the current model, with minor updates expected for the lights, bumpers, and alloy wheels. Like the Kushaq, the Slavia is likely to receive upgraded displays and an ADAS suite, addressing a notable gap in safety features compared to Honda and Hyundai sedans.
Powertrain Changes
The primary mechanical update could involve replacing the 6-speed automatic (6AT) with an 8-speed automatic (8AT) on the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. Other engine options are expected to carry over unchanged.
Skoda Elroq: India’s Potential Electric SUV
Expected Launch: H2 2026
Estimated Price: ₹45 lakh
While Skoda has not officially confirmed the launch, the Elroq electric SUV could debut in India in the second half of 2026. It is set to compete with electric SUVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and BMW iX1 LWB.
European Specifications and Performance
In Europe, the Elroq is available in rear-wheel-drive variants — 50, 60, and 85 — with battery capacities of 52kWh, 59kWh, and 77kWh, along with a dual-motor RS version. The 85 variant offers a claimed range of up to 560 km and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds.
Design and Cabin Features
The Elroq embodies Skoda’s Modern Solid design language, measuring approximately 4.4 meters in length with a 2.7-meter wheelbase. This translates into a spacious cabin with generous storage. Key features include a 13-inch infotainment screen and a comprehensive ADAS suite, making it a well-equipped electric SUV for the Indian market.
