The global semiconductor chip shortage could have led Skoda to delete some features from the popular Kushaq SUV. The Czech brand has reportedly removed the automatic climate control feature from the Skoda Kushaq Ambition variant. The mid-spec Ambition trim comes with automatic climate control.
2022 Skoda Kushaq Ambition – Manual Air Conditioning
However, reports suggest that due to the semiconductor shortage, the brand is shipping the Ambition trim without the Auto climate control panel. Instead, Skoda will be offering a rotary manual air conditioning unit. The manual AC controller consists of three rotary knobs which control temperature, fan speed and air direction.
An image of the same also reveals that the manual system is fairly basic and is also likely to affect the overall price of the SUV. However, Skoda has not officially confirmed the same. But to put things into perspective, Skoda, in the recent past, stopped offering auto-folding ORVMs leading to a discount of INR 20,000 on the ex-showroom price. There are no changes to the powertrain of the Kushaq nor any other mechanical changes to the SUV.
Semiconductor Issue
The global shortage of semiconductors has affected the entire automotive industry. This, combined with the recent Russia-Ukraine conflict, has further led to the shortage of parts. Ukraine is the leader in Neon gas manufacturing and the supply of liquid Neon. The semiconductor manufacturing process also uses Neon gas which is currently in short supply. Russia is also the leading supplier of Palladium which is used in catalytic converters as well as in electronic components in the automotive industry.
Skoda Kushaq – Highlights
The Kushaq SUV features the renowned MQB-A0-IN platform and features clear-cut headlights and crystalline LEDs. The exteriors design is trickled very well from the Skoda Vision IN concept, and the SUV measures 4,225 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width and 1,612 mm in height. The Kushaq also offers spacious interiors and the latest in-car systems.
The SUV comes with engine options such as a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that makes 115 PS of power and 175 Nm of torque. The second option is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. The engine comes with 150 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque. Skoda also offers a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic and a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox option.
Also Read: Skoda Kushaq & Volkswagen Taigun MY22 models don’t get auto-folding mirrors
