New Skoda Kushaq Facelift vs Kia Seltos – Which SUV to Buy?

The new mid-size SUV from the Czech carmaker bears a few key additions to make it more attractive

In this post, we compare the new Skoda Kushaq facelift and the Kia Seltos on the basis of specs, features, design, etc. Skoda unveiled the facelift iteration of the Kushaq yesterday. Apart from the exterior updates, the cabin also gets some new goodies. Furthermore, the new transmission is the talking point of the SUV. On the other hand, the Kia Seltos is among the most feature-laden products in this mid-size SUV space. That is the reason it is among the highest-selling models in this category. For now, let us compare the two in depth.

New Skoda Kushaq Facelift vs Kia Seltos – Specs Comparison

The updated Skoda Kushaq facelift retains its familiar 1.0-litre TSI and 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engines. These continue to deliver 115 PS / 178 Nm and 150 PS / 250 Nm of peak output, respectively. However, the biggest change comes in the form of an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission with the smaller motor, while the larger engine gets a choice of either an 8-speed torque converter or a 7-speed DSG automatic. As a result, buyers have a fairly broad range of engine-gearbox combinations to choose from.

In comparison, the Kia Seltos continues with its well-established Creta-sourced 1.5-litre engine lineup, including a naturally aspirated petrol producing 115 PS and 144 Nm, a diesel churning out 116 PS and a healthy 250 Nm, and a turbo-petrol developing 160 PS and 253 Nm of peak power and torque. Transmission options are equally diverse, spanning a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed automatic, CVT, and a 7-speed DCT. This wide-ranging powertrain and gearbox spread ensures the Creta comfortably caters to varied driving styles and everyday usage needs. Note that the Seltos has the advantage with the diesel mill.

New Skoda Kushaq Facelift vs Kia Seltos – Features and Safety Comparison

On the inside, the new Kushaq offers a few new amenities to attract new buyers. We know that new-age car buyers want the absolute top-notch functionalities in their cars. Hence, carmakers equip their products with all the latest bells and whistles. To begin with, let us check out the kind of features the new Kushaq comes with:

• 10.25-inch Customizable Digital Cockpit
• 10-inch Infotainment Display
• Rear Seat Massager (first-in-segment)
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Dual-colour Ambient Lighting
• Alloy Wheels Across the Range
• Front Parking Sensors
• 6-way Electronically Adjustable Front Seats with Ventilation
• Skoda Sound System with 6 Speakers, Amplifier and Subwoofer
• Google-powered AI Companion
• Auto Dimming IRVM
• 491-litre Boot Space
• All 4 Disc Brakes (w/ 1.5L TSI)
• Leatherette Seats
• Rain Sensing Wiper and Rear Defogger
• 40+ Active and Passive Safety Features
• 6 Airbags
• Automatic Climate Control
• 5-star Global NCAP Safety Rating for Child and Adult

As mentioned previously, the Kia Seltos is arguably the most feature-rich vehicle in its class. Some of its major attractions incorporate:

• 30-inch Trinity Panoramic Screens for Infotainment and Driver Display
• ADAS Level 2+ Suite with 28 Autonomous Features
• Voice-controlled Dual-pane Sunroof
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Automatic Streamline Door Handles
• 8-speaker Bose Premium Audio System
• AI-based Voice Recognition
• 8-inch Head-up Display
• 64-colour Ambient Mood Lighting,
• Kia Connect 2.0 Connected Car Tech Features
• Automatic Climate Control
• Welcome Seat Function
• 10-way Adjustable Driver’s Seat with Power Lumbar Adjust and Memory Function with Relaxation Function
• Welcome Retract Seat Function
• White Two-Tone Interiors with White Accents and Leatherette Seats
• Double D-Cut Dual Tone Leatherette-Wrapped Steering Wheel
• Memory Function for ORVM
• Reflective-type HUD
• Type-C USB Charging Ports
• Dual Pane Panoramic Sunroof
• 60:40 Split Seats with Recline Adjust
• First-in-segment Smart Key Proximity Unlock Function
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• OTA Software Updates
• Wireless Charging
• Auto Hold Function
• 6 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Blind View Monitor
• 360°Surround Camera
• Side Parking Sensors

Design Comparison

Now, design and styling might be subjective, but I shall try to elaborate on the objective elements of the Skoda Kushaq facelift. The front fascia now gets a wider illuminated grille, paired with sleek LED headlamps and LED DRLs placed at the outer edges. A more aggressive, sculpted bumper with an integrated skid plate adds to its road presence, while the bonnet continues with its familiar character lines. Along the sides, the SUV features sturdy roof rails, newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels, protective body cladding, chrome window surrounds, and pronounced wheel arches. At the rear, the design is completed by LED tail-lamps connected via a light bar with illuminated Skoda lettering, a chrome strip running across the tailgate, sequential turn indicators, and a chunky bumper with silver cladding at the base.

On the other hand, the Kia Seltos also bears a modern appearance, especially after the recent new-gen model came into existence. At the front, the bold grille is complemented by sharp LED headlamps and sleek DRLs, along with a sportier bumper that features distinctive styling elements. The side profile showcases muscular wheel arches, dual-tone aero alloy wheels, blacked-out pillars, faux roof rails, and rugged-looking body cladding. I particularly like the neatly executed third-quarter section, which adds a touch of visual flair. At the rear, elements such as the large roof spoiler, slim split LED tail-lamps, sporty bumper, and unique cut-outs round off the design. Taken together, the new Seltos gets meaningful updates that clearly set it apart from the outgoing model.

My View

I shall reserve my verdict until the prices of the new Skoda Kushaq have been announced. For a price-conscious market like ours, accurate pricing can go a long way in enticing new buyers. In any case, I shall update this section once we know what the new Kushaq costs.

Also Read: New Skoda Kushaq Facelift vs Hyundai Creta – Which SUV Offers What?