I’ve been following the news closely, and the Skoda Kushaq facelift is shaping up to be one of the more interesting mid‑life updates in the compact SUV segment. Based on spy photos and media leaks, the facelift looks likely to bring a large panoramic sunroof and Level‑2 ADAS hardware. While Škoda hasn’t officially confirmed the final spec sheet, the clues in the latest test mules give us a clear picture of what to expect.
What the spy photos reveal — panoramic roof and ADAS hardware
From the recent spy shots, two changes stand out: a single‑pane panoramic sunroof and radar/camera sensors for ADAS. The panoramic roof appears much larger than the current electric sunroof, stretching well back over the rear passengers. Reports say this will likely be offered on the mid and upper trims.
On the ADAS side, multiple test mules show a radar sensor on the front grille and camera hardware around the windscreen. That points to Level‑2 ADAS being added, which typically includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane keep assist, and blind‑spot monitoring. Other expected features are forward collision warning and auto high beam.
Remember: these changes are widely reported but not yet officially confirmed by Škoda. Treat them as likely until the company publishes the final details.
Exterior and interior updates: evolutionary, not revolutionary
The facelift seems to be an evolutionary refresh rather than a full redesign. Leaked images and write‑ups mention:
- Revised front and rear bumpers
- Slimmer, tweaked headlamps and taillights, possibly linked by a slim LED strip
- An updated grille and new alloy wheel designs
- Large single‑pane panoramic roof replacing the current single electric sunroof
Inside, we expect a refreshed infotainment touchscreen and a new digital driver display. Some reports also mention a possible head‑up display (HUD), ventilated front seats, a surround/360° camera, and better sound options. These updates will help the Kushaq stay competitive against rivals that already offer panoramic roofs and advanced driver aids.
Safety upgrade: Level‑2 ADAS plus strong passive safety
The current Kushaq already has a strong safety baseline with multiple airbags, ESC (electronic stability control), and TPMS. The facelift is expected to add an active safety layer with Level‑2 ADAS. Here’s a quick breakdown of the ADAS features that multiple outlets are reporting:
| ADAS Function | Expected on Facelift? | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) | Yes (radar + camera) | Keeps safe distance from cars ahead |
| Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) | Yes | Helps avoid or reduce severity of frontal collisions |
| Lane Keep / Lane Assist | Yes | Helps the car stay within its lane |
| Blind‑Spot Monitoring | Yes | Warns of vehicles in your blind spot |
| Auto High Beam | Yes | Improves night driving without dazzling others |
Adding Level‑2 ADAS is a meaningful step. It doesn’t drive the car for you, but it assists in common highway and city situations. Combined with the Kushaq’s solid passive safety, the facelift should improve overall safety for buyers.
Powertrain and driving: what stays the same
Good news for fans of the current drive feel: the facelift is not expected to change the engines. Leaks suggest Škoda will keep the 1.0‑litre TSI and the 1.5‑litre TSI petrol engines. Gearbox choices are likely to remain similar as well — a 6‑speed manual and automatic options (6/7‑speed automatics/DSG) — though some reports hint at small gearbox lineup tweaks for certain automatic variants.
That means the facelift should feel familiar to existing owners. The big differences will be in comfort, tech, and safety rather than in outright power or performance.
Timing, pricing and who should consider it
Based on spy activity and media reports, the reveal is expected around late‑2025 to early‑2026, with India as the primary market for these early sightings. Pricing hasn’t been announced. If you’re shopping now and need ADAS or a panoramic roof, waiting for the facelift could be worth it — especially if you prefer mid or top trims where these features are likely to appear.
Who should consider waiting?
- Buyers who want the panoramic sunroof and advanced driver aids — wait for mid/upper trims.
- Fleet or safety‑conscious buyers — Level‑2 ADAS can add real value over time.
- Those who prioritize driving feel and power — current Kushaq engines likely remain the same, so earlier models still offer similar performance.
One practical example: if you currently drive a Kushaq with the standard sunroof and you often carry family, the panoramic roof will make rear passengers feel roomier and brighter. If you do a lot of highway driving, ACC plus lane keep could reduce stress on long trips.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Bullet 650 Set to Enter India Soon: Key Features You Should Know
Final Thoughts
In short, the Skoda Kushaq facelift looks set to bring two headline upgrades: a large panoramic sunroof and Level‑2 ADAS. Expect evolutionary styling tweaks, refreshed tech inside, and the familiar 1.0‑litre and 1.5‑litre TSI engines to remain. The ADAS additions will boost active safety and make highway driving easier, while the panoramic roof will add a premium feel for passengers.
Keep in mind that Škoda hasn’t published a full spec sheet yet. These details come from reliable spy shots and media leaks, so treat them as expected rather than final. If you want, I can either (a) monitor and alert you when Škoda issues the official announcement, or (b) pull together the full set of spy photos and a short timeline of sightings with image sources. Which would you prefer?
