Skoda Kushaq competes against other SUVs like Maruti Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and its cousin Volkswagen Taigun.
Skoda has unveiled a special Kushaq Explorer edition which is an off-road-ready version of the compact SUV. Based on the Style trim, the features of the Kushaq Explorer edition are part of an accessory package. That said, Skoda is yet to announce the price of this special edition Kushaq.
The Czech carmaker has merely introduced the Explorer accessory package to gain feedback from prospective Skoda buyers. If and when this version of Kushaq goes on sale, customers can opt for either individually or all of these accessories from the dealer.
Skoda Kushaq Explorer: Exterior, interior highlights
As expected, the new Explorer edition of Kushaq gets outdoorsy cosmetic elements on the outside which make the SUV more rugged. These include a completely blacked-out front grille, blacked-out ORVMs, a roof rack with auxiliary LED lights, and tow hooks on the front bumper.
The Kushaq Explorer edition comes wrapped in a Matte green paint scheme with contrast bronze highlights like the tow hooks, side claddings, front bumper, and rear spoiler. Further, the all-black alloy wheels are shod with off-road tires.
Inside the cabin, the Kushaq Explorer edition gets the same layout as the regular Kushaq but benefits from a couple of additional features including a head-up display, rear sun shades, and a 360-degree camera. The matte green paint scheme is carried forward from the exterior on the dashboard panel, center console, and door pads, lending the interior a dual-tone look.
Skoda Kushaq Explorer: Powertrain
Since it is based on the Style trim, the Skoda Kushaq Explorer edition will be available with a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged as well as a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. The former kicks out 114 bhp and 178 Nm of peak torque while the latter produces 148 bhp and 250 Nm of torque.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on both engines. The 1.0-litre unit can be had with a 6-speed torque converter automatic whereas the 1.5-litre unit is optionally paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission.