The Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo takes the brand’s signature European design, known for its elegance and quality, and adds a sporty twist that makes it stand out in the competitive compact SUV segment. Building on the base Kushaq’s solid platform, the Monte Carlo edition brings a blend of style, performance, and premium features that cater to buyers looking for a sporty, road-ready vehicle with a luxurious touch. In this review, we dive into what makes the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo such a special offering in the market.
Striking and Bold Design
From the moment you lay eyes on the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo, it’s clear that this variant is designed for those who value aesthetics and a bold presence. The Monte Carlo edition comes with a striking black-and-red theme, with glossy black accents on the grille, front and rear bumpers, ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors), and roof rails, giving the SUV a more aggressive, sporty look. The front grille with the blackened Skoda logo and sharp angular lines add to its confident stance, exuding a sense of performance.
The signature Monte Carlo badge on the front grille, as well as the exclusive 17-inch black alloy wheels, further enhance the SUV’s sporty character. The deep red body color contrasts beautifully with the black elements, making it an eye-catching presence on the road. Overall, the Kushaq Monte Carlo manages to blend ruggedness with elegance, ensuring it stands out while maintaining Skoda’s premium appeal.
Premium and Comfortable Interior
Step inside the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo, and you’re immediately greeted by a cabin that feels a level above its competition. The interior continues the bold theme with red and black upholstery that feels both sporty and premium. The Monte Carlo-specific red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and gear lever enhances the overall appeal, offering a more dynamic and refined atmosphere.
The seats themselves are comfortable, offering excellent support for both short and long drives. The front seats are power-adjustable, ensuring that the driver and passenger can find an ideal seating position. The rear seats are spacious, offering good legroom and headroom, making the Kushaq a suitable option for families. The cabin also features high-quality materials with soft-touch plastics that add a touch of luxury to the overall feel.
In terms of features, the Kushaq Monte Carlo comes loaded with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also features a premium sound system, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and automatic climate control, ensuring that every journey is comfortable and enjoyable. The attention to detail in the cabin, from the brushed metal accents to the premium upholstery, reflects Skoda’s commitment to offering a luxury experience at a competitive price.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Performance is where the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo truly excels. The SUV is powered by a choice of two turbocharged petrol engines: a 1.0-liter TSI engine that produces 115 horsepower and a more powerful 1.5-liter TSI engine that churns out 150 horsepower. The 1.5-liter variant, which comes with a 7-speed DSG transmission, offers a more exhilarating driving experience, perfect for those who enjoy spirited drives and fast acceleration.
On the road, the Kushaq Monte Carlo impresses with its sharp handling and precise steering. The suspension setup is well-tuned to offer a balance of comfort and agility, absorbing bumps and rough patches while maintaining stability during quick cornering. The steering is light enough for city driving but offers enough feedback to provide a connected feel on highways and winding roads.
The 1.5-liter TSI engine, in particular, is a joy to drive. It delivers smooth power delivery and a strong mid-range torque that makes overtaking and highway driving effortless. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating city traffic, the Kushaq Monte Carlo provides a smooth, enjoyable ride that’s both practical and fun.
Safety Features
Safety is always a top priority for Skoda, and the Kushaq Monte Carlo is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. It comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), traction control, and a rearview camera with parking sensors. The SUV also boasts front and rear disc brakes, providing strong stopping power in any driving condition.
Skoda has designed the Kushaq with a robust body structure that provides better crash protection. The vehicle also comes with ISOFIX child seat anchors and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Monte Carlo edition further adds to the overall sense of security with its solid build quality, ensuring that the Kushaq performs well in crash tests and offers peace of mind for occupants.
Driving Efficiency
The Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, which is important for everyday driving. The 1.5-liter TSI engine, in particular, is highly efficient, delivering an average mileage of around 16-18 km/l, depending on driving conditions. This makes the Kushaq Monte Carlo a relatively economical option for those who want a powerful yet fuel-efficient vehicle.
In terms of city driving, the car provides a smooth driving experience with its smooth DSG gearbox that shifts gears seamlessly, contributing to better fuel efficiency and a more relaxed driving experience. Whether navigating tight city streets or cruising on highways, the Kushaq strikes a balance between power and efficiency, making it a practical option for daily commutes and long drives.
Verdict: A Sporty and Premium Compact SUV
The Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo is a premium compact SUV that offers a compelling mix of performance, style, and comfort. The bold design, coupled with high-quality interiors and advanced technology, makes it stand out from its competitors in the segment. The driving dynamics, particularly with the 1.5-liter TSI engine and DSG gearbox, provide a thrilling experience, while the practicality and comfort ensure that the SUV remains suitable for families and long-distance driving.
With its solid build quality, advanced safety features, and well-rounded performance, the Kushaq Monte Carlo offers great value for those looking for a stylish and enjoyable vehicle in the compact SUV category. Whether you’re after a car for daily commutes, weekend getaways, or just want a sporty ride with a premium touch, the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo is an excellent choice for the modern driver.
If you’re seeking a road-ready SUV with a perfect balance of style, performance, and practicality, the Kushaq Monte Carlo is definitely worth considering.
