2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift vs Toyota Hyryder: Which is the better SUV in terms of price, features, mileage?

2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift is launched in March 2026, which has a new design, panoramic sunroof, AI assistant and updated features. This is for those who want dynamic driving and premium feel. At the same time, Toyota Hyrider focuses on hybrid technology, excellent mileage and reliability of Toyota. Both give tough competition in the compact SUV segment. Kushaq suits the enthusiast driver, the Hyryder suits family use and low running costs.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift starts at ₹ 10.69 lakh (Classic+ 1.0 TSI MT) and the top variant goes up to ₹ 18.99 lakh (Monte Carlo 1.5 TSI DSG). Toyota Hyrider starts at ₹10.99 lakh (E NeoDrive Petrol MT) and the top hybrid variant goes up to ₹19.99-20.19 lakh. The price of both is similar in the base variant, but the Hyryder may be a little expensive in the top end. Let’s take a look at the design, engine and performance details of both.

Design and interior

The Kushaq Facelift gets a new front grille with a connected LED light bar, slim LED headlamps, a new bumper and at the rear, connected LED taillights with illuminated Skoda logo. It looks more modern and premium. The Monte Carlo variant has sporty red accents. The design of the Hyryder is bold and SUV-like, giving it a long look (length 4365 mm), but it may look a bit dated compared to the facelifted Kushaq. The wheelbase of the Kushaq is 2651 mm long, which helps in cabin space. The Hyryder has 210 mm of ground clearance.

Its cabin is now brighter. Bees black theme, new 10.25-inch digital cockpit, 10.1-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, rear seat massage function and ventilated front seats are available. Material quality is good. The Hyryder’s interior is practical and family-friendly, with good build quality and space, but doesn’t feel as tech-loaded and premium as the Kushaq. The Hyryder offers up to 373 liters of boot space.

Features and safety

The Kushaq Facelift comes with new features like Google Gemini AI Companion, wireless charger, power adjustable ventilated seats, rain-sensing wipers, front parking sensors and an updated infotainment system. The Hyryder gets a head-up display, 360-degree camera (in some variants), a good sound system and hybrid-specific features. Both have wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, auto AC and cruise control. Kushaq looks more tech-forward.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift has retained the 5-star Global NCAP rating. 6 airbags standard, 40+ active-passive safety features, ESC, TPMS, hill hold and now all disc brakes are available in the 1.5 liter engine variants. Hyryder also has 6 airbags, good safety features, but has not yet got 5-star in GNCAP test. In terms of family safety, both the SUVs are good.

Engine and Mileage

The Skoda Kushaq can be bought with a 1.0 liter TSI turbo-petrol (115 PS/178 Nm) engine, mated to a 6MT or the new 8-speed TC AT. The second 1.5 liter TSI (150 PS/250 Nm) engine comes with 7-speed DSG. Its ARAI claimed mileage is around 18.72-19.76 kmpl.

Toyota Hyryder has a 1.5 liter petrol (101 bhp/137 Nm) engine, which also comes with MT/AT, AWD option and CNG. The strong hybrid (1490 cc TNGA + electric motor) is offered with e-CVT, producing 115 bhp power. Its ARAI claimed mileage goes up to 27.97 kmpl.

Our advice: Kushaq Facelift will suit those who want stylish look, premium interior, powerful engine and top safety. Hyryder is best suited for family users who want low fuel economy, hybrid technology, reliability and good resale value. Take a test drive and choose an SUV as per your requirement. Prices and features may change over time.