Refund for defective Skoda Kushaq models.A Chennai consumer commission ordered Skoda India and its dealer, Gurudev Motors, to refund 16.73 lakh for a Skoda Kushaq SUV sold with inherent defects, along with a ₹30,000 penalty. The forum relied on an Anna University inspection report that validated key defects in the car.
What did the complaint say?
The complainant, T S Rajamohan, who purchased the SUV in March 2023, reported multiple issues within just 35 days, including a hardened clutch that caused leg pain, a failed air-conditioner, abnormal wheel noise, and malfunctioning power windows.
During follow-ups, the dealer’s representative allegedly told him the vehicle was designed for European driving conditions and not suited to Indian roads, adding that Skoda’s R&D team was working on fixes.
Emails reviewed show delays and generic responses from both the company and the dealer. Although parts such as the clutch assembly and piston were replaced, the problems persisted. Rajamohan further alleged that negligent driving by a dealer staffer caused additional damage during servicing.
What did the report say?
On his request, the forum directed Anna University to inspect the vehicle. The report confirmed three major defects: a hard clutch that caused jerks, poor cooling in both modes, and noise from the right-side power window. Wheel noise was noted but not classified as significant.
Skoda India argued that after sale, service was the dealer’s responsibility, and the defects were either minor or linked to usage. Gurudev Motors maintained it promptly serviced the vehicle under warranty.
Holding both parties jointly liable, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Chennai (North), concluded the defects were inherent, could not be cured by repeated servicing, and amounted to deficiency in service.
Skoda announces big price cut; check details
Skoda Auto India on Wednesday said it will cut prices across its entire product portfolio by up to ₹3.3 lakh to pass on the full GST reduction benefits to customers.
Effective September 22, the price of Kodiaq SUV will be reduced by up to ₹3,28,267, while that of compact SUV Kylaq by up to ₹1,19,295.
Similarly, SUV Kushaq will see a price reduction of up to ₹65,828, while that of sedan Slavia by up to ₹63,207, the company said in a statement.
The company further said is currently extending limited-period offer benefits equivalent to upcoming GST reduction on the Kushaq, Slavia, and Kodiaq models, valid till September 21.
