2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Vs Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara: More Differences Than Similarities

Interested in buying the Skoda Kushaq facelift? Here’s our Ultimate Buying Guide!

Skoda recently introduced the Kushaq facelift, giving it an exterior makeover, updated interior, more features and minor changes in the powertrain department. On the other hand, we have the tried and tested Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, which is one of the most sought-after SUVs in the segment and has also proven its mettle in the past few years. 

On paper, both SUVs are priced similarly and belong to the same segment. However, they are very different in styling and even in the powertrain department. So how do they compare, and which one is for you? Let’s understand this better by taking a closer look at their specifications, features, dimensions, and powertrains.

Price

• Base variants of both SUVs are priced very similarly, with a difference of just about Rs 8,000. 

• The top-spec variant of the Grand Vitara is more expensive by around Rs 72,000. 

• However, the Grand Vitara being an older model could have significant discounts on offer.

Here’s a closer look at the specifications of both these SUVs:

Dimensions

*For NA Petrol variants

• The Grand Vitara is quite clearly the longer SUV, and the extra length also leads to a better road presence.

• In terms of width and height, the Grand Vitara is wider and taller, but by a small margin.

• Despite the shorter length, it is the Kushaq that boasts the larger wheelbase of the two, and also has a slightly larger boot compared to the Grand Vitara.

Colour Options

*Also available with a black roof in select variants

• Both SUVs come with a wide range of colours. The Kushaq gets one extra colour option.

• The Shimla Green, Cherry Red and Steel Grey are the newer hues with the Kushaq.

• The green, grey, silver, and white shades of the Kushaq come with a dual-tone option. 

• The Grand Vitara also gets a dual-tone option with the red, white, and silver options. 

Powertrain

DCT- Dual Clutch Transmission (automatic) , AT- Automatic Transmission (torque converter),

CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission (automatic)

• The Kushaq offers powerful turbo-petrol engine options, while the Grand Vitara focuses on efficiency with its mild and strong-hybrid options.

• Those who prioritize performance and like driving enthusiastically can opt for the Kushaq’s more powerful 1.5-litre engine.

• Those who seek efficiency can go with the Grand Vitara. 

• Additionally, you also get a CNG option with the Grand Vitara, which is ideal for those who want even lower running costs. 

Features

• As seen above, the Kushaq gets an illuminated logo, a powered co-driver seat and even a rear seat massager over the Grand Vitara.

• On the other hand, the Grand Vitara comes with a 360-degree camera, electronic parking brake and a heads-up display, which the Kushaq doesn’t get. 

• Both these SUVs miss out on an ADAS suite, which most SUVs in this segment offer. 

CarDekho Says

If you’re someone who enjoys driving and wants a punchy, engaging experience behind the wheel, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift makes a strong case for itself. Its turbo-petrol engines, especially the 1.5-litre unit, offer significantly better performance, and it also feels more modern with its updated design and rich feature list in certain areas.

On the other hand, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is the more sensible and efficiency-focused choice. With its strong-hybrid option and even a CNG variant, it’s ideal for buyers who prioritise low running costs and have high urban usage. It also brings some feel-good features like a 360-degree camera and head-up display, making it a well-rounded family SUV.

Ultimately, your choice boils down to what you value more. Do you enjoy driving or prefer being chauffeured around? How much does efficiency matter to you? And which design language appeals more to you? If you can answer these questions, then we are certain that you know which SUV to pick. Also, you can’t go wrong with either of these SUVs. 

Here are some other options you can look at besides the Kushaq and Grand Vitara:

Hyundai Creta: A trustworthy SUV that offers a feature-loaded cabin, comfortable ride quality, and a wide range of engine and variant options to suit different buyers.

Tata Sierra: Best for those who want strong road presence, a spacious cabin, and a modern feature set with a focus on comfort and safety.

Maruti Suzuki Victoris: A more modern version of the Grand Vitara. Follows a similar recipe with a focus on fuel efficiency. However, gets more features and fresher design elements. 

Tata Curvv: A unique coupe-SUV bodystyle with a feature-rich interior and wide range of powertrain choices including diesel.

Renault Duster: A rugged and modern SUV that stands out with its strong performance, capable suspension, and balanced ride and handling.

Kia Seltos: One of the more premium and larger offerings in the segment, with a modern design, feature-rich interior, and multiple powertrain choices.

Toyota Hyryder: Same qualities as the Grand Vitara, but with different styling and a Toyota badge. 

Honda Elevate: Appeals to those who value reliability and simplicity, offering a roomy cabin and a refined naturally aspirated petrol engine.

Volkswagen Taigun: Similar to the Kushaq in character, but differentiated by its styling and the availability of the sporty GT variants with the 1.5-litre turbo engine.

MG Astor: Appeals to whose who want a good interior experience along with all the required features. 

You can also check out how the Kushaq facelift compares with the outgoing model in this report. 

Which SUV are you picking? Let us know in the comments section below.