Skoda Kushaq 1.0L Monte Carlo

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? You think about your budget, how safe the car is, monthly maintenance costs, the latest features you get, and of course, how good the company's service network is. Finding a car that ticks all these boxes can be tough, especially in the super competitive compact SUV segment. But what if there was an option that offered a great balance of style, performance, and safety, all with that European touch? Today, we are taking a closer look at just that: the new Skoda Kushaq 1.0L Monte Carlo. This variant promises to add a sporty flair to an already popular SUV. Let's dive in and see if it is the right car for you.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.0L TSI Turbo Petrol (3-cylinder)
• Maximum Power: 115 PS (at 5000-5500 rpm)
• Peak Torque: 178 Nm (at 1750-4500 rpm)
• Transmission Options: 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic
• Fuel Economy (ARAI): Around 19.2 kmpl (Manual) and 17.8 kmpl (Automatic)

Design Overview

The Monte Carlo edition takes the already handsome Kushaq and sprinkles some extra sporty magic on it. It truly stands out.

Exterior Design

• Exclusive Colours: Often available in Tornado Red and Candy White.
• Blacked-Out Elements: Gloss black treatment for the front grille, ORVMs (outside rear view mirrors), roof rails, and the SKODA lettering on the tailgate.
• Distinctive Wheels: Sporty 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels that look fantastic.
• Monte Carlo Badging: Special badging on the fenders.
• LED Lighting: Full LED headlamps and tail lamps.

Interior Design

• Sporty Theme: Red and black dual-tone interior with red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and door armrests.
• Dashboard: Features a gloss red insert, adding to the sporty feel.
• Seats: Exclusive Monte Carlo upholstery.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital instrument cluster with a red theme.

Key Features

• Infotainment Screen: Large 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Sunroof: Electric sunroof to add to the premium feel and airy cabin.
• Charging: Wireless phone charging pad for convenience.
• Climate Control: Automatic climate control.
• Ventilated Seats: Ventilated front seats, a boon for Indian summers.
• Sound System: Six-speaker sound system with a subwoofer.
• Parking Aids: Reverse parking camera with dynamic guidelines and rear parking sensors.
• Cruise Control: For relaxed highway driving.

Ground Clearance

The Skoda Kushaq offers a healthy 188 mm of ground clearance, which is great for tackling Indian roads and occasional rough patches without worry.

Boot Space

You get a generous 385 litres of boot space, enough for your weekend luggage or a big grocery run.

Dimensions

• Length: 4225 mm
• Width: 1760 mm
• Height: 1612 mm
• Wheelbase: 2651 mm

Powertrain Options

While we are focusing on the 1.0L TSI, it is worth noting that the Kushaq also comes with a more powerful 1.5L TSI engine option for those who crave even more performance. However, for everyday driving and city commutes, the 1.0L engine is highly efficient and spirited enough.

Safety Features

Skoda cars are known for their strong build, and the Kushaq is no exception. Safety is a major highlight.

• Up to 6 Airbags (Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain airbags)
• ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• ESC (Electronic Stability Control) as standard across all variants
• Multi-Collision Brake
• Traction Control System
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Hill Hold Control
• ISOFIX child seat mounts

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is paramount, and the Kushaq has proven its mettle in crash tests.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars
Bharat NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars

Rivals of Skoda Kushaq 1.0L Monte Carlo

The Skoda Kushaq competes in a very hot segment. Its main rivals include:

• Hyundai Creta
• Kia Seltos
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
• Volkswagen Taigun (its close sibling)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages

• Solid Build Quality: Feels premium and robust, typical of Skoda.
• Excellent Driving Dynamics: Fun to drive, stable at high speeds, and handles well.
• High Safety Rating: A full 5-star rating from both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP is very reassuring.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Loaded with comfort and convenience features like ventilated seats, sunroof, and a large touchscreen.
• Sporty Design: The Monte Carlo styling truly makes it stand out.
• Refined Engine: The 1.0L TSI is surprisingly peppy and fuel-efficient for its size.

Disadvantages

• Rear Seat Space for Three: While good for four adults, fitting three abreast at the back can be a bit tight.
• Perceived After-Sales Service: Some buyers have concerns about Skoda's service network and cost, though Skoda is working hard to improve this.
• Price Point: The Monte Carlo variant sits at the higher end of the 1.0L Kushaq range, making it a bit pricey.
• Interior Plastics: While well put together, some hard plastics are visible, which might not feel as premium as some rivals.

Conclusion

The Skoda Kushaq 1.0L Monte Carlo is more than just a stylish compact SUV. It offers a fantastic blend of European engineering, a powerful yet efficient 1.0L engine, a long list of features, and class-leading safety. If you are someone who values a fun-to-drive car with a strong build, top-tier safety, and a sporty look that turns heads, and you don't mind spending a little extra for that premium feel, then the Monte Carlo variant of the Kushaq should definitely be on your test drive list. It is a car that makes a statement and offers a confident, enjoyable ownership experience. Skoda has truly hit the sweet spot with this one for the discerning Indian car buyer.