The wait is over! Skoda has launched the Kushaq in India, with prices starting at Rs 10.50 lakh and going all the way up to Rs 17.60 lakh. The SUV, which becomes the first product launch under Volkswagen Group’s ‘India 2.0’ project, helps its maker enter a popular segment – compact SUVs. Here’s the complete price list:

Skoda has kept the variants list short and crisp. For many, that does help reduce confusion. However, others might feel a lack of options when compared to some of the rival products. There are four powertrain options, covering two engines and three transmissions. The larger powerplant is reserved for the Style trim, while the smaller one is available across all three trim levels.

The 1.0-litre TSI engine, which also does duty in the Rapid, has been tuned to produce 113bhp/178Nm. You can have it with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter. With that engine, the Kushaq can hit 186kmph at full stretch. At 148bhp/250Nm, the 1.5-litre TSI motor is way gutsier. If you don’t want a 6-speed manual gearbox with that engine, you can settle for a 7-speed DSG. Obviously, the extra oomph delivers a higher top speed of 190kmph and a faster 0-100kmph acceleration time of 8.6 seconds.

Sticking with the numbers game, at 2,651mm, the Kushaq has one of the largest wheelbases in the segment. As standard, the SUV rides on 16-inch steel wheels. Get one of the mid-tier derivatives, and a set of alloys come into the equation. The range-topping Style trim ropes in an inch larger wheels. With all the seats in place, there’s space for 385 litres of stuff. Fold the rear seats down, and that number shoots up to 1,405 litres.

As you’d expect, the list of features is impressive. Stuff like a 10.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system mated to a 7-speaker sound system, wireless support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and an electric sunroof is available. The list also includes a wireless mobile charger, ventilated front seats, six airbags, auto-dimming IRVM, hill start assist and support for myŠKODA Connect & ŠKODA Play Apps.

So, there you have it. The Kushaq is a critical product for Skoda. And the SUV has to fight tough battles against the Nissan Kicks, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Hector and the Tata Harrier. Soon, the Volkswagen Taigun will join the party.