2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Vs Maruti Suzuki Victoris: Same Segment, Different Personalities

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

Skoda recently launched the facelifted Kushaq with updated styling, an enhanced interior with more features, and minor changes in the powertrain department. On the other hand, we have the Maruti Suzuki Victoris, which is one of the most well-rounded packages in the segment and a very sensible purchase.

On paper, both SUVs bring their own strengths to the table, but they attract completely different buyers. So how do they compare, and which type of buyer are you? Let’s understand this better by going through their specifications, features, dimensions, and powertrains.

Price

• Base variants of both SUVs are priced very similarly, with a difference of just about Rs 20,000.

• The top-spec variant of the Victoris costs around a lakh more than that of the Kushaq.

Let’s take a look at the specifications of both these SUVs:

Dimensions

• The Victoris is much longer than the Kushaq, and looks like it is from half a segment above, if you just compare their lengths.

• In terms of width and height, the Kushaq falls short, but by a small margin.

• Interestingly, the Kushaq boasts the larger wheelbase of the two, which could lead to more space inside the cabin.

• Overall, it’s the Victoris that commands a stronger road presence. That said, these two SUVs take completely different design approaches, so the choice ultimately comes down to which design language resonates more with your personal taste.

Colour Options

*Also available with a black roof in select variants

• Both SUVs offer 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 Victoris also gets a dual-tone option with the red, blue, and silver options.

Powertrain

DCT- dual clutch transmission, AT- torque converter automatic transmission, CVT - Continuously variable transmission

• The Kushaq sticks with a turbo-petrol only approach, while the Victoris prioritises efficiency with its mild and strong-hybrid options.

• If you seek performance, the Kushaq’s more powerful 1.5-litre engine is the better pick.

• On the other hand, the Victoris’ strong hybrid powertrain choices are for those who value fuel efficiency along with a smooth driving feel.

• For those who want low running costs in an affordable package, the Victoris also comes with the option of CNG.

Features

• As seen above, the Victoris gets more amenities to the table, and the Kushaq falls behind, especially in the safety department.

• In terms of extras, the Victoris gets a heads-up display, a powered tailgate, a better audio system, and multiple drive modes.

• The Kushaq, on the other hand, gets a powered co-driver seat and a rear seat massager.

• In terms of safety, the Victoris offers a 360-degree camera, ADAS and a proper tyre pressure monitoring system over the Kushaq.

CarDekho Says

Both the Skoda Kushaq facelift and the Maruti Suzuki Victoris may sit in the same price band, but they cater to very different needs. The Kushaq stands out as the driver’s SUV here, offering punchy turbo-petrol engines, a more engaging driving experience, and a slightly more premium feel inside. If performance and driving dynamics are high on your priority list, the Kushaq is the one to go for.

The Victoris, on the other hand, positions itself as the more sensible and feature-rich choice. With multiple powertrain options, including strong-hybrid and CNG options, better fuel efficiency, and a longer feature list with added safety tech like ADAS and a 360-degree camera, it appeals more to buyers looking for comfort, tech, and lower running costs.

In the end, your choice comes down to what you value more. It depends on you if you want excellent driving dynamics and performance, or efficiency, features, and overall practicality. Want to check out how the facelifted Kushaq compares with the outgoing model? Check out this story.

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

Hyundai Creta: A dependable, all-rounder SUV that delivers a feature-loaded cabin, comfortable ride quality, and a wide range of engine choices and variants to choose from.

Tata Sierra: Ideal if you want strong road presence, a spacious interior, and a host of modern features.

Maruti Grand Vitara / Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder: Similar to the Victoris but more dated; best suited for buyers prioritising high fuel efficiency with hybrid technology.

Kia Seltos: A relatively fresh option in the segment, offering a premium interior, multiple powertrain options, and standout road presence.

Tata Curvv: Offers a unique coupe-SUV styling with a feature-rich interior and a wide range of powertrains including diesel.

Honda Elevate: Appeals to those who value Honda’s reliability and engineering, with a roomy cabin and one of the better naturally aspirated petrol engines here.

Renault Duster: Stands out with its rugged styling, capable engine options, and a well-balanced suspension that handles both comfort and dynamics well.

Volkswagen Taigun: Similar to the Kushaq, but gets different exterior styling, and the availability of the iconic GT badging with the 1.5-litre turbo engine.

MG Astor: Gives a premium interior experience at a slightly lower price point than most of its rivals.