On June 28, 2025, Skoda officially unveiled its first locally assembled vehicle in Vietnam, marking a significant milestone for both the brand and the Quang Ninh province. The launch took place just three months after the inauguration of the Thanh Cong Viet Hung Auto Factory, a sprawling automotive complex that embodies Vietnam's ambitions to modernize its industrial landscape and boost domestic car production.
The star of the event was the Skoda Kushaq, a European-quality SUV designed with a clear strategic vision dubbed "Global Reach" and carrying the message "European Quality Car, Definitive Lifestyle." This model represents Skoda's commitment to delivering a vehicle that is not only stylish and robust but also caters to the practical needs of modern families.
Measuring 4,225 millimeters in length, 1,760 millimeters in width, and 1,612 millimeters in height, with a wheelbase stretching 2,651 millimeters, the Kushaq boasts the largest cockpit in the B-segment SUV category. This generous interior space promises comfort and convenience for both drivers and passengers, enhancing every journey.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the Kushaq is powered by a 1.0-liter TSI Turbo engine that delivers 115 horsepower, paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. Despite its spirited performance, the vehicle maintains an efficient fuel consumption rate of just 6.1 liters per 100 kilometers, striking a balance between power and economy.
Safety is a paramount concern for Skoda, and the Kushaq reflects this with its robust chassis construction and advanced safety features. The frame incorporates 14% ultra-high-strength steel and advanced high-strength steel, supplemented by 86% high-strength and standard steel, ensuring maximum protection for occupants. The vehicle passed rigorous Global NCAP crash tests and includes a comprehensive suite of electronic safety systems: Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR), Multi-Collision Brake (MKB), Brake Disc Wiping (BSW), and Hill Hold Control (HHC).
The Kushaq also shines in its technological offerings. Inside, it features an Air Care air conditioning system equipped with a PM 2.5 filter—a crucial asset in urban environments plagued by fine dust pollution. The interior is appointed with a 6-way power-adjustable leather seat that includes a cooling function, an 8-inch driver information display, and a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen supporting wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional conveniences include wireless charging, Type-C ports, and a premium 6-speaker sound system with a subwoofer delivering 340 watts of power.
The top-tier Kushaq Style variant adds a premium sunroof with an anti-pinch feature, enhancing cabin ambiance with natural light and ventilation. For added security and privacy, the vehicle offers a Valet Mode that logs usage data such as distance traveled, door and trunk openings, and restricts access to personal information on the infotainment system.
Skoda Vietnam has introduced two versions of the Kushaq ready for delivery: the Ambition at 599 million VND and the Style at 649 million VND. To celebrate the launch, customers placing orders during July and August 2025 will enjoy a 10 million VND discount alongside a complimentary first maintenance service at 7,500 kilometers. Notably, residents with household registration in Quang Ninh will receive an additional 10% discount on the retail price during this promotional period, a gesture that underscores the company's commitment to the local community.
The Thanh Cong Viet Hung Auto Factory itself is a monumental project within the Thanh Cong Viet Hung Industrial Automobile and Support Complex, spanning 400 hectares with an investment of 8,679 billion VND by the Thanh Cong Group. Construction began in early 2023, and by March 2025, the facility commenced production and assembly of Skoda vehicles, boasting an annual capacity of 120,000 cars. This factory symbolizes a pivotal step in Vietnam's economic restructuring efforts, aiming to shift towards a modern, industrialized economy while also increasing the localization rate of automobile manufacturing and laying the groundwork for future exports.
Mr. Dam Dinh Thong, General Director of Skoda Vietnam, emphasized the company's forward-looking strategy: "In the next phase, with strategic models, we have set ambitious sales targets and aim to progressively increase the localization rate to move toward export markets. Skoda will focus on delivering advanced technology and superior customer experiences, complemented by a service network designed to ensure utmost convenience and satisfaction for our customers."
The Skoda Kushaq's introduction in Vietnam is not just about a new car model; it is a statement of intent. It blends European engineering excellence with local production capabilities, promising a vehicle that is both reliable and tailored to the needs of Vietnamese consumers. The launch event and the operational factory underscore a broader narrative of industrial growth, technological advancement, and economic modernization within the region.
As the automotive landscape in Vietnam evolves, the Skoda Kushaq is poised to make a significant impact, offering an appealing combination of style, performance, safety, and technology. With attractive pricing and localized production, it stands as a compelling choice for families seeking a quality SUV that embodies the spirit of European craftsmanship while being firmly rooted in the local market.
