Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL), which has recently crossed the 50,000-unit production milestone for its compact SUV Kylaq, has commenced production of the updated Škoda Kushaq at its Chakan plant in Pune, marking the rollout of the refreshed version of one of its key India-focused models.

Production rollout at Chakan

The Kushaq, which was the first model developed under the group’s INDIA 2.0 strategy, has been central to Škoda’s expansion in the domestic market. The updated version introduces feature enhancements and a new transmission option as the company looks to strengthen its position in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.

Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the Kushaq has been developed with high levels of localisation and is manufactured at the Pune facility. The new iteration adds features such as a panoramic sunroof, a rear-seat massage function and an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The SUV continues to offer a suite of active and passive safety systems, including a five-star safety rating for occupants, according to the company.

India’s role in global manufacturing strategy

Andreas Dick, Board Member for Production and Logistics at Škoda Auto a.s., said the Kushaq represents one of the first models developed outside Europe for a specific market. “The start of production of the new Kushaq highlights India’s growing integration into our global manufacturing network,” he said.

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, said the Kushaq remains a core product for the group’s India operations. “The new version builds on the existing platform with added features and transmission options tailored to customer preferences,” he said.

Key contributor to 2025 volumes

According to the company, the Kushaq has contributed significantly to the group's volumes in recent years and was part of the group’s record sales performance in 2025, when it reported 117,000 units sold across brands in India. Deliveries of the updated Kushaq are scheduled to begin in March following its global debut earlier this year.

SAVWIPL operates manufacturing facilities in Chakan and Shendra and manages multiple brands in India, including Škoda and Volkswagen. The company has been increasing localisation levels and expanding supplier partnerships as it seeks to deepen its manufacturing footprint and leverage India as both a domestic growth market and an export base.