Hyundai Creta-rivalling Skoda Kushaq Global Reveal Set For March 18 First Made-In-India Skoda SUV

• The global reveal of the Kushaq will be held on March 18, before its likely launch in May 2021.

• It will be a petrol-only offering with 1.0-litre and 1.5 litre TSI engines on offer.

• It is based on a new localised platform and is expected to be priced from Rs 9 lakh to Rs 17 lakh.

• It will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.

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The is based on the VW Group's smallest modular MQB-A0 platform, which has been heavily localised here. While Skoda has made a few changes to the concept showcased at the Expo, most of the design has been retained. Skoda's traditional butterfly grille is flanked by LED lighting. A smooth character line runs down the side leading to what is likely to be the same C-shaped tail lights from the concept. The prototype we previewed stood on 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside too, the Kushaq is expected to retain the layout and finish from the Vision IN. Considering its rivals, Skoda is bound to load it to the gills with premium features such as connected car tech with OTA updates, sunroof, cruise control, and climate control. On the safety front, it will offer up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, tyre pressure monitoring system, hill hold control, parking sensors, and electronic stability control (standard across the entire range).

Under the hood, the Kushaq will get two petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre TSI and a 1.5-litre TSI. The smaller engine will get both 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox options, whereas the larger 1.5-litre engine will get a 7-speed DCT in addition to the 6-speed manual option.

Due to the localised platform and Skoda's aggressive pricing, the Kushaq could retail between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 17 lakh (ex-showroom). From what the prototype revealed, the Kushaq will provide stiff competition to the likes of the when it launches, most likely by May 2021.