Living with it, loving it - Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo | Long Term Report | Part-1

Arpit Handa Updated: July 28, 2023, 03:03 PM IST

This month we welcome the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo to the #ODGarage. Prior to this, I was driving the Skoda Slavia, which had a 1.0L TSi motor with a 6-speed manual, but the Kushaq here has the 1.5L, 150PS Motor with a silky smooth 7-speed DSG. This is going to be interesting. Now we know that the Kushaq is a Crossover SUV based on the MQB A0 IN platform, the Kushaq is definitely a driver's car. I felt that extra power was really useful during intercity sprints and even on traffic light drags, because of the DSG which also gave me the option of paddle shifters. I am spoiled for choices here. Carrying the family is now much easier in the Kushaq, especially the kids love it as they climb into the car. The interior space is well thought out and we as a family of four never had any issues in terms of space and interior creature comfort.

The Kushaq Monte Carlo spec is brilliant, with those VRS-inspired 17-inch wheels and Red Brake Calipers, thoughtfulness to the cabin shows in terms of the seats too which are dual coloured with the red colour having a carbon-fibre weave finish and contrast red-stitched upholstery. The interiors look and feel premium, and the ventilated cooled seats in the front for both driver and passenger are a boon in the heat. The wireless Apple Carplay is great and the screen is really high resolution, almost feels like I am operating a smartphone with buttery smooth responses.

The Kushaq takes on the bad roads in strides and I could hardly notice any issues with the ride quality. I love that big car feel because of the stance this body style carries, yet it feels nimble in tight city traffic and that beauty of an engine coupled with that DSG, OMG! Feels great overall.

I am yet to check the highway mannerisms and high-speed stability, but I am pretty sure the Kushaq will handle that with ease, also I am yet to check out the Cylinder-Deactivation Tech this engine offers for better fuel efficiency, more on that in the next review once I plan a nice road trip with the Kushaq. Overall, the first impressions are great. I am thrilled and excited to check out what the Kushaq is capable of. Stay tuned for more on this in the coming months.