Launched in 2021, the Kushaq marked Skoda’s aggressive entry into the compact SUV market in India. It was the first product of the VW Group on the MQB-A0-IN platform, tailor-made for Indian road conditions and expectations. And it wasn’t a disappointment—offering snappy handling, solid build quality, punchy turbocharged engines, and the best safety features.
Skip to the present, the Kushaq has established a name in the second-hand automobile market. However, buying a second-hand turbo SUV, such as a used Skoda Kushaq, raises a question. What model year is worth the investment? What variant to target? Is the DSG transmission worthwhile? What are the maintenance expenses?
It contains all the information you need before investing your funds in a pre-owned Kushaq.
Best Age of Used Kushaq to Buy
When the Kushaq was unveiled, its price ranged between ₹11.5 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and engine. Similar to other cars, a pre-owned Skoda Kushaq will ideally depreciate the most in the first two years, mainly because new variants continually add features.
| Age | Depreciation | Price Range (₹) |
| 1 year | ~15% | ₹9.8–15.3 lakh |
| 2 years | ~25–30% | ₹8–13 lakh |
| 3 years | ~35–40% | ₹7–11 lakh |
Best Model Years to Buy
Seek out the 2022 or 2023 model. These addressed some of the early issues found in 2021 cars, such as infotainment system issues, uneven AC operation, and rattling. You’ll also get new software and refinement-quality updates.
When purchasing a 2021 model, ensure that the vehicle has a complete service history and that the owner has complied with all software updates and recalls.
Best Used Skoda Kushaq Variant to Buy
Skoda offers the Kushaq in Active (base), Ambition (mid), Style (top), and Monte Carlo (sporty) trims. Here’s how they differ:
Active (Base Variant)
- No touchscreen in early units
- 2 airbags
- Manual AC
- Steel wheels
- No ESC, no cruise control
Not recommended unless priced extremely low and you’re willing to invest in aftermarket upgrades.
Ambition (Mid Variant)
- Touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- ESC, rear parking camera, cruise control
- Alloy wheels and LED DRLs
- Better cabin materials
Great value for money. Has most of what urban buyers need.
Style (Top Variant)
- 6 airbags
- Sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Full LED lighting
- Larger infotainment screen in newer models
If you want safety and luxury features, this is the variant to buy.
Monte Carlo Edition
- Red accents, contrast roof, black alloys
- Sportier interior
- Based on the Style trim, but costs more
Consider this option if you want your car to stand out and don’t mind paying a premium in the used car market.
Verdict
Ambition offers the best balance of features and value. But if safety and comfort are non-negotiable, Style is worth the extra spend.
Used Kushaq 1.0 TSI vs 1.5 TSI
The Kushaq comes with two engine options:
1.0 TSI
- 115 PS, 178 Nm
- Gearbox: 6MT or 6-speed AT
- Real-world mileage: 12–14 kmpl city / 15–17 kmpl highway
- Lower maintenance
1.5 TSI
- 150 PS, 250 Nm
- Gearbox: 6MT or 7-speed DSG
- Real-world mileage: 10–12 kmpl city / 14–15 kmpl highway
- Higher performance, higher maintenance (DSG)
The 1.0 TSI is ideal for most daily users. It’s responsive, fun, and far more affordable to run. The 1.5 TSI is for enthusiasts or frequent highway travellers. Just ensure the DSG transmission is in good condition—it’s smooth but expensive to repair if mishandled.
Used Skoda Kushaq Ownership Calculator
Let’s break down the real cost of owning a used Kushaq (excluding fuel and EMI).
| Expense | Approx. Cost (₹) | Frequency |
| Annual Service (1.0 TSI) | ₹10,000 – ₹12,000 | Every 15,000 km |
| Annual Service (1.5 TSI) | ₹12,000 – ₹14,000 | Every 15,000 km |
| Battery Replacement | ₹4,000 – ₹5,500 | Every 3–4 years |
| Brake Pads | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 | Every 20,000 km |
| Tyre Replacement | ₹25,000 – ₹30,000 | Every 40,000 km |
| Insurance (Comprehensive) | ₹12,000 – ₹18,000 | Annually |
| DSG Oil Change (1.5 TSI only) | ₹8,000 – ₹10,000 | Every 30,000–40,000 km |
Total Yearly Cost
- 1.0 TSI: ₹35,000 – ₹45,000
- 1.5 TSI DSG: ₹45,000 – ₹60,000
Add fuel costs on top, which will range from ₹70,000 to ₹85,000 per year depending on your engine and usage.
Upgrades for Used Skoda Kushaq
Want to enhance your experience? Here are practical and stylish upgrades for your Kushaq.
Infotainment & Tech
- Android Auto/Apple CarPlay dongle for older infotainment units
- Dashcam with GPS (₹6,000–₹9,000)
- Rear seat entertainment tablets for kids
Comfort & Convenience
- Ambient lighting kits (₹3,000–₹5,000)
- Seat covers with extra bolstering (₹5,000–₹10,000)
- Sound insulation upgrade (₹2,000+)
Visual Mods
- Roof wraps in matte black or carbon fibre (₹10,000–₹15,000)
- Blacked-out badges, smoked taillamps
- Aftermarket 17” alloys (₹25,000+)
Just be cautious and avoid cheap electrical accessories that might void your warranty or cause battery drain issues.
Conclusion
The Kushaq by Skoda checks all the right boxes—it looks fabulous, is safe, an absolute hoot to drive, and well-proportioned for our nation’s roads. And at the second-hand level, the deal gets even better if you get the right variant and engine. Whether at the start of your buying process or upgrading from a hatch, the Kushaq offers real value.
A 2022 or subsequent model-year Ambition or Style trim model with the 1.0 TSI engine strikes the perfect balance of practicality and spunk for the average purchaser. If, however, you relish enthusiastic driving and are willing to keep up a DSG, the 1.5 TSI will be tremendously rewarding.
Proper documentation, a full service history, and no outstanding recalls are in place before signing the purchase agreement. It is always worth buying a pre-purchase inspection from a Skoda service centre.
FAQs
Q. Is the Kushaq reliable in the long run?
Yes. The 1.0 TSI is known to be reliable, and recent improvements in Skoda’s after-sales service have helped. Just follow scheduled maintenance.
Q. How can I check if a used Kushaq had any recalls?
Enter the VIN on Skoda’s official website or ask a service advisor at any authorised dealership.
Q. Is the DSG gearbox in the 1.5 TSI risky to own?
Not risky if it’s maintained well. But avoid cars that show jerky shifts, delayed acceleration, or haven’t had a recent gearbox oil change.
Q. Does the Kushaq hold resale value well?
It’s decent, though not at Hyundai/Maruti levels. Top variants with service history do better in resale value than base trims.
Q. Should I buy a Kushaq from a private owner or a used car dealer?
Private owners usually quote better prices, but a certified used car dealer can offer warranty and inspection assurance.
