Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo 2026 Review: Sporty SUV With Premium Interior And 8-Speed Gearbox

Check out the full review of the Skoda Kushaq Facelift Monte Carlo Edition in detail.

Updated: Friday, March 20, 2026, 12:12 [IST]

The Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo is a sportier version of the Kushaq compact SUV, retaining its core design while adding distinctive styling upgrades. It is offered with two turbo-petrol engine options, along with a new 8-speed automatic gearbox for the 1.0-litre variant.

This edition uses a black/red theme both in the exterior and the interior. It now gets a full panoramic sunroof, full LED lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels as standard. The cabin includes features like ventilated seats, wireless phone charging, and a digital instrument cluster. We drove the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo, and here’s how it performs on the road.

Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo 2026 Review – Exterior Highlights

The Monte Carlo looks different at the front than the regular Kushaq. The grille and lower splitter are finished in piano black. Red stripes and a small chequered flag detail mark it out as the sportier option. Full LED headlamps and LED fog lamps will offer clear visibility.

A connecting LED daytime running light adds a modern visual signature. Along the side, every variant rides on 17-inch alloy wheels. The outside mirrors are finished in black and include built-in turn indicators. A Monte Carlo badge is placed on the body to show the special edition.

The door handles get brushed chrome accents and keyless entry sensors. Apart from this, the side profile avoids chrome for a cleaner, sportier look. Functional roof rails sit on top for extra practicality. A panoramic sunroof has now been added, which brings more sunlight into the darker cabin.

At the rear, there is a roof spoiler with an integrated high-mounted stop lamp. The tailgate carries connected LED tail lamps that wrap into the bodywork. The Skoda lettering lights up at night for extra presence. Both the Monte Carlo and Kushaq badges feature a glossy black finish, making them aggressive and sportier.

The rear bumper has gloss black elements on its lower part. The boot can hold 491 litres of luggage and comes with a fitted parcel tray. Rear seats fold in a 60:40 split to extend space when needed. Hydraulic struts help the tailgate open and close smoothly.

Ground clearance ranges between 188 and 189 millimetres, depending on the variant. The 1.0-litre engine model uses disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear. The 1.5-litre version upgrades to disc brakes on all four wheels for improved stopping power.

Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Review – Interior Highlights

Rear seat space is generous for a compact SUV. Even tall passengers get good knee and leg room. Under-thigh support is also decent. Three adjustable headrests cover all rear occupants for better comfort and safety.

A fold-down rear armrest includes cup holders for the middle row. Rear AC vents help keep the cabin cool for back-seat passengers. There are seat-back storage pockets for small items. The panoramic sunroof extends over the rear section for an airy feel.

The rear seats come with a massage function that focuses on the back and shoulders but misses ventilation. Two Type-C charging ports serve rear passengers. The side glass is tinted to reduce UV light entering the cabin. The sunroof itself gets a thick shade to block heat when needed.

At the front, the car uses push-button start. The key fob carries the Skoda logo. The Monte Carlo dashboard adds red stitching to lift the sporty feel. Seat upholstery uses a material giving a carbon fibre-style look, again in line with the theme.

The front seats are ventilated and offer two levels of cooling. Monte Carlo badging appears on the headrests. The dashboard combines matte black and red panels with chrome and piano black highlights. Hard plastics feel solid, while softer materials are used on the armrests.

Door pockets provide ample storage and can hold up to four half-litre bottles each. AC vents get chrome edging and dark inserts to match the rest of the cabin. Automatic climate control is part of the package. The central touchscreen supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

A digital instrument cluster shows key driving data and can be customised. Its main colour theme is red, again matching the Monte Carlo styling. The inside rear-view mirror is frameless for a clean look. The passenger sun visor includes a mirror, while the driver’s side does not.

LED interior lights brighten the cabin. A wireless charging pad sits ahead of the gear lever. Two front Type-C ports and a 12V socket handle most charging needs. In total, there are six charging points across the cabin.

The steering wheel is leather-wrapped with a two-spoke design, in line with Skoda’s latest style. It has chrome accents and feels good to hold. Paddle shifters sit behind the wheel for manual control with automatic gearboxes.

The steering column adjusts for both tilt and reach. Sporty metal pedals add to the Monte Carlo character. Ambient lighting strips and footwell lamps improve the cabin feel at night. Switchgear feels sturdy, and the start-stop button is easy to reach. The audio system uses six speakers plus a subwoofer. This setup aims to deliver a richer sound experience inside the car.

Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Review – Specifications & Dimensions – Key Figures

The Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo is offered with two turbocharged petrol engines. The 1.0-litre unit produces 118 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. The larger 1.5-litre engine develops 148 bhp and 250 Nm of torque for stronger performance.

The 1.5-litre motor features twin-cylinder deactivation. This system can shut down two cylinders under light load to improve fuel use. It has only the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, since Skoda has removed the 6-speed manual for the larger powertrain.

A new 8-speed torque converter automatic is available only with the 1.0-litre engine. Skoda states this gearbox is a first of its kind in this segment in India. Ground clearance remains between 188 and 189 millimetres, based on the engine and variant chosen.

Boot space stands at 491 litres across the range. All variants of the Monte Carlo feature 17-inch alloy wheels as standard. The 1.5-litre engine variant comes with disc brakes at all four corners. The 1.0-litre engine variant uses front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.

Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Review – Driving Impressions – On the Road

The drive was conducted with the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. It was paired with the new 8-speed torque converter automatic. This gearbox offers quick shifts and short ratios. The car can reach fifth gear by around 45 km/h in gentle driving.

On the highway, this helps with relaxed cruising. The eighth gear keeps engine speed low at higher road speeds, which should aid fuel economy. Shorter, lower gears give strong initial pickup in city use. Pressing the accelerator hard leads to prompt downshifts.

Engine noise becomes more noticeable once the revs cross about 3,000 rpm. Despite being a three-cylinder engine, the sound is distinct when pushed. The engine revs to around 6,000 rpm. A sport mode holds gears for longer to keep the engine in its power band.

In normal drive mode, the gearbox shifts smoothly and early with a light throttle. There is no clear lag from the torque converter in city traffic. Overall, this combination offers a pleasant driving experience in daily use.

The front seats are electrically adjustable with six-way power functions. The driver’s seat also includes manual height adjustment. With tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, most drivers should find a comfortable position. This helps on longer journeys.

The suspension setup strikes a balance between comfort and control. Body roll is contained for a tall vehicle like an SUV. The Kushaq Monte Carlo feels confident around bends. Braking performance is strong, and the 1.5-litre variant with four disc brakes offers even better braking feel and stopping power.

Safety equipment is extensive. Six airbags are standard across the range. Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic brake-force distribution are included. The Kushaq has received a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection. However, the Kushaq facelift misses out on the 360-degree camera system and Level 2 ADAS, which its competitors offer.

Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Review – Verdict & Final Thoughts – Is it Worth It?

The Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo brings a sporty look and feel to the Kushaq range. It combines visual upgrades with strong turbo petrol engines and multiple gearbox choices. The new 8-speed torque converter with the 1.0-litre engine stands out for its smoothness and flexibility. Comfort features like ventilated front seats and rear seat massage add to its appeal.

With its large features, driving dynamics, and safety rating, the Kushaq Monte Carlo is a solid option in the compact SUV space. The expected ex-showroom price range is from ₹10.5 lakh to ₹19 lakh. Based on its equipment and performance, the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo is a model that buyers can confidently shortlist. The pricing will be revealed on March 21, 2026, and many buyers are eagerly waiting.