The Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI DSG stands as a bold contender in the compact SUV segment, offering a performance-oriented package for those who crave spirited driving along with everyday practicality. But how does this SUV actually perform when taken through daily commutes, highways, and even hill roads?
This ownership review—based on real-world experience after 10,000+ km of usage—dives deep into performance, comfort, mileage, features, and after-sales service. It also highlights why the owner made a big switch from a diesel-powered Kia Sonet Manual to this petrol-powered DSG beast.
Vehicle Overview
Model: Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI DSG Automatic (Style Variant)
- Engine: 1.5L 4-Cylinder TSI EVO Turbo-Petrol with ACT (Active Cylinder Technology)
- Power: 150 PS (148 BHP)
- Torque: 250 Nm
- Transmission: 7-Speed DSG (Dual-Clutch Automatic)
- Fuel Efficiency: 11–18 km/l (varies by usage and driving style)
- Driving Modes: Normal, Sport (via gear lever in S mode)
- Odometer Reading: 10,000+ km
Why Kushaq?
The owner previously drove a Kia Sonet Diesel Manual, but found its highway performance underwhelming. The switch to the Kushaq was based on:
- Desire for better highway performance and effortless overtakes
- A car that is fun to drive yet practical for city use
- Preference for a torque, refined petrol engine
- Overall, the Kushaq 1.5 DSG delivered on all fronts
Driving Experience
Engine & Transmission
- The 1.5L TSI engine is refined, powerful, and impressively punchy.
- There's no noticeable lag—power delivery is strong across the rev range.
- The DSG gearbox is smooth, intuitive, and shifts quickly.
- Sport Mode makes a huge difference, holding gears longer and sharpening throttle response—perfect for hill climbs or overtaking.
- Even with full passengers and luggage, the car climbs steep inclines effortlessly.
Performance on Highways
- Easily touches 120–130 km/h with complete stability.
Overtaking is quick and confident—even at higher speeds.
- The car feels planted and secure, and the feedback from the steering gives the driver confidence.
City Driving
- In D mode, the car drives like a calm cruiser.
Light steering and responsive low-end torque make it easy to drive in traffic.
Mileage Observed
- City: 11–12 km/l
- Highway: Up to 17–18 km/l with controlled driving
- During aggressive driving or in hilly regions: 10–11 km/l
- Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) helps during low load cruising by deactivating 2 cylinders, improving mileage on highways.
Ride Quality & Handling
- Ride is firm at low speeds, typical of a European car, but smooths out significantly on highways.
- Handling is exceptional—sharp steering and minimal body roll.
- The car feels very stable at high speeds and in corners.
Comfort & Interior
- Ventilated front seats are a blessing in summers.
- Seat support is great even on long drives.
- Dashboard design is clean, and the cabin feels premium.
- Space is decent for two adults and one child.
- Rear headrests and center armrest are present.
- Under-thigh support is acceptable but not outstanding for tall passengers.
- 10-inch touchscreen (pre-facelift) with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- 6-speaker audio system delivers great clarity and depth
- Auto-dimming IRVM, electric sunroof, full LED lighting, ambient lighting
- Infotainment is smooth and responsive, though wireless Android Auto may occasionally disconnect
Build Quality & Safety
- Build feels solid and European, with high-speed crash safety in mind.
- 5-star GNCAP crash rating adds peace of mind.
- Features like 6 airbags, ESC, traction control, hill hold, and multi-collision braking make it one of the safest in the segment.
- The car gives off a sense of being heavily engineered and well-built.
After-Sales Experience
- First service experience was smooth and satisfactory.
- No major mechanical issues faced in the first 10,000 km.
- No DSG problems encountered, though the owner is aware of past concerns and is cautious.
- Slight rattle from interior trim on rough roads, but not persistent or bothersome.
- Outstanding highway performance
- DSG gearbox – smooth and responsive
- Strong build quality
- Ventilated seats, sunroof, premium interiors
- Safety features and 5-star crash rating
- Premium music system
- Confident high-speed behavior
- Slightly stiff ride at low speeds
- Rear seat space and comfort could be improved
- DSG reliability long-term still a question mark
- Some cabin plastics feel average
- Minor rattles on bad roads
Final Verdict
For those looking for performance, comfort, safety, and premium features, the Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI DSG delivers in all key areas. It's not just an upgrade from diesel or naturally aspirated engines—it's a proper driving machine that makes every trip enjoyable.
Despite minor niggles, the car ticks almost all the right boxes for a modern enthusiast or highway tourer.
Verdict: A rock-solid, high-performance compact SUV for those who love driving and don’t want to compromise on quality.
