Why Skoda Opted For a New 8-speed AT Gearbox With Kushaq Facelift

Why did Skoda change the heart of the Kushaq? Because you asked for a smoother, smarter and more pocket-friendly drive – and Skoda finally listened.

What Is New In The Kushaq?

Skoda has given the Kushaq SUV a facelift and added a brand new 8-speed automatic (AT) gearbox with the 1.0-litre TSI engine. Earlier, this engine used a 6-speed automatic gearbox, which is now replaced. The engines themselves stay the same: a 1.0-litre turbo petrol and a more powerful 1.5-litre turbo petrol.

This new gearbox is a torque converter unit made by Aisin and is called the AQ300. It is tuned specially for Indian roads and Skoda’s MQB-A0-IN platform.

Why Skoda Picked An 8-speed AT

Skoda’s move is mainly about cost, mileage and emissions, which matter to you in real life.

• The new 8-speed AT is expected to be 10–15% cheaper than the old 6-speed gearbox, because it is made at large scale in China, not imported from Japan.​
• Lower cost of the gearbox helps Skoda keep overall car prices more competitive for buyers like you.​
• The 8-speed AT also helps Skoda meet stricter CAFE III fuel-efficiency and emission rules in India.

So, Skoda did not add two extra gears just for fun; it did it to save money, fuel and the environment at the same time.

How The 8-speed AT Helps You

For you as a driver or family car buyer, the new gearbox brings practical benefits you can feel every day.

• More gears mean the engine can run at lower RPM on highways, which can improve fuel efficiency and reduce noise.​
• Closer gear steps help the car accelerate more smoothly in the city, so you feel fewer jerks in traffic.​
• Better efficiency also means lower CO2 emissions, which is better for the air you and your family breathe.

Skoda also aims to make this 1.0 TSI plus 8-speed AT combo one of the most comfortable and reliable automatic options in its class.

You May Also Like to Read this Article - Skoda Kushaq Facelift Revealed

What Else Changed In The Kushaq Facelift?

Along with the new 8-speed AT, the Kushaq facelift gets design and feature updates to make your daily drive nicer.

• Fresh exterior look with updated styling to keep it modern and sharp.
• New features like a panoramic sunroof, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, improved AC system and even a massage function for rear seats in higher variants.
• The 1.5-litre TSI versions now get rear disc brakes, improving braking confidence for longer highway trips.​

Pre-bookings for the updated Kushaq are open and prices are expected to be announced soon in India.

What This Means For You Now

If you are planning to buy a compact SUV, the new 8-speed AT in the Skoda Kushaq gives you a strong mix of comfort, mileage and future-ready tech.

• You get smoother city drives, better highway cruising and the convenience of an automatic.
• You also get a car that is built to meet new fuel and emission rules, so it stays relevant for longer.
• Skoda is likely to bring this 8-speed AT to other Skoda-Volkswagen models like Taigun, Virtus and Slavia in their upcoming facelifts as well, which can give you more choices later.

If you are looking for an automatic SUV for your family, it is a good time to visit a Skoda showroom, test drive the new Kushaq 1.0 TSI 8-speed AT, and see if the smoother drive and features match your needs and budget.