Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun To Get Facelifts In India Next Year

Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun to get facelifts in India by early 2026 with refreshed design, ADAS features, and new interiors. Prices expected from ₹11 lakh.

Introduction

The mid-size SUV segment in India is heating up, and two of its strongest contenders are about to get major updates. Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun To Get Facelifts In India next year, marking their first big design and feature refresh since launch under Volkswagen Group’s India 2.0 project. Both SUVs, rivals to Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, are expected to enter showrooms by early 2026 with a host of design, feature, and safety improvements.

Skoda will lead the charge by launching the facelifted Kushaq first, followed closely by Volkswagen with the updated Taigun. Both models will retain their engines but promise enhanced technology, advanced safety features, and modern interiors. Let’s take a detailed look at what’s coming.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift – What to Expect

The Skoda Kushaq facelift is expected to launch in early 2026. It will carry Skoda’s signature four-eye face design, but in a sharper, more modern avatar.

Exterior Updates

• Headlamps: Revised graphics, full LED tech across all variants (including turn indicators).
• Fog Lamps: Larger units for better visibility.
• Grille & Bumper: Redesigned for a sportier, more aggressive stance.
• Wheels: New 17-inch alloy wheels to enhance road presence.
• Tail Lamps: Connected all-LED combination lamps with a redesigned bumper for a premium look.

Interior Updates

Inside, the facelifted Kushaq will get several changes:

• Dashboard: A new design layout with updated trim and upholstery.
• Infotainment: Upgraded system with smoother UI and connectivity features.
• Climate Control: Unfortunately, the touch-based climate panel will remain unchanged.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: While the global Skoda Kamiq gets a 10.25-inch display, the Indian Kushaq may retain the 8-inch cluster for cost reasons.
• Safety Features: The biggest highlight will be the introduction of Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and a 360º camera system for improved safety and driver confidence.

Engine & Transmission

Mechanically, the facelifted Kushaq will continue with its:

• 1.0-litre TSI and 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engines.
• Current gearboxes: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and 7-speed DSG.
• By late 2026, Skoda will replace the 6-speed automatic with a new 8-speed automatic transmission on the 1.0 TSI, promising smoother shifts and better efficiency.

Expected Price

The facelifted Kushaq will likely start at ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom) and go up to around ₹19 lakh for top variants.

Volkswagen Taigun Facelift – What’s New

The Volkswagen Taigun facelift will follow in March–April 2026. It will continue its sporty DNA but with bolder design tweaks and upgraded interiors.

Exterior Changes

• Front & Rear Bumpers: Restyled for a fresher look.
• Lighting: All-LED headlights and tail lamps with new graphics.
• Wheels: Redesigned 17-inch alloy wheels.

Interior Changes

The cabin of the facelifted Taigun will see upgrades like:

• Seat Covers & Trim: New upholstery and decor finishes.
• Dashboard: Updated design with better ergonomics.
• Infotainment: Improved software for smoother performance.
• Safety: Addition of Level 2 ADAS and 360º surround view monitor.

Engine & Transmission

Like the Kushaq, the Taigun facelift will continue with the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre TSI petrol engines. Initially, it will keep the same transmission options, but Volkswagen will also introduce the 8-speed automatic gearbox with the 1.0-litre TSI about six months post-launch.

Expected Price

The facelifted Taigun is expected to start close to ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom).

Kia’s SUV Plans for 2026 – The Bigger Picture

While Skoda and VW focus on their facelifts, Kia Motors is preparing an SUV onslaught in India. Three premium SUVs are on the way in 2026:

1. Kia Syros EV (Q1 2026):
   Made-in-India electric SUV with a 400 km range.
   LFP battery pack, bi-directional charging (V2L).
   Price range: ₹15–20 lakh.
2. Next-gen Kia Seltos (Q2 2026):
   Bold design with EV5-inspired styling.
   Loaded features: ventilated rear seats, power tailgate, panoramic display, ADAS Level 2.
   Expected price: from ₹11 lakh.
3. Kia Sorento Hybrid (Late 2026):
   Hybrid SUV with localised 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine.
   New MQ4i platform tailored for India.

This clearly shows how competitive the SUV market will be in 2026, with Skoda, VW, and Kia all introducing fresh products.

Why These Facelifts Matter

The Skoda Kushaq and VW Taigun have been solid performers in India’s compact SUV segment. However, with newer rivals like Hyundai Creta (next-gen), Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, and Maruti Grand Vitara, both needed a mid-life upgrade to stay relevant.

Key reasons why these facelifts are important:

• Modern Features: Indian buyers now expect ADAS, 360º cameras, and premium infotainment systems even in mid-size SUVs.
• Fresh Appeal: Facelifts will bring new designs and interiors, keeping them competitive against rivals.
• Efficiency: Introduction of the 8-speed automatic gearbox will improve driveability and mileage.
• Market Positioning: Pricing starting at ₹11 lakh ensures they remain strong alternatives to the Creta–Seltos duo.

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FAQs on Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun Facelifts in India

Q1. When will the facelifted Skoda Kushaq launch in India?
The updated Skoda Kushaq is expected to launch in early 2026.

Q2. What new features will the Skoda Kushaq facelift offer?
It will get all-LED lights, connected tail lamps, new alloys, revised interiors, Level 2 ADAS, and a 360º camera system.

Q3. Will there be any engine changes in the new Skoda Kushaq?
No major engine changes initially. The 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI engines will continue, but an 8-speed automatic gearbox will replace the current 6-speed auto in late 2026.

Q4. When will the Volkswagen Taigun facelift launch?
The facelifted VW Taigun should arrive by March–April 2026.

Q5. What are the key updates in the VW Taigun facelift?
The Taigun will get restyled bumpers, new LEDs, 17-inch alloys, refreshed interiors, and advanced safety features like ADAS and a surround view camera.

Also Read : Skoda & Volkswagen Cars To Hit Indian Roads in 2025–26

Q6. What will be the price range of these facelifted SUVs?
Both the Kushaq and Taigun are expected to start from around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom).

Q7. Which other SUVs are launching in India in 2026?
Kia will launch the Syros EV, next-gen Seltos, and Sorento Hybrid, intensifying competition in the SUV space.

The Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun To Get Facelifts In India next year, and both SUVs are shaping up to be stronger contenders in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment. With new styling, advanced tech, premium interiors, and enhanced safety, these updates aim to keep the Kushaq and Taigun fresh against rivals. Coupled with Kia’s aggressive 2026 lineup, Indian SUV buyers will have some of the most exciting choices yet.