Skoda has just introduced a new trim level for the Kushaq. It’s called Ambition Classic, slotting between the base Active and the mid-tier Ambition trims. Prices? The petrol-MT derivative costs INR 12.69 lakh, whereas the petrol-AT variant is INR 14.09 lakh. Before we get into the details, let’s get some math in the picture. The Ambition Classic manual costs INR 1.70 more than the Active variant. But, the newcomer is INR 25,000 less than the next-in-line derivative – Ambition manual. The story for the new automatic variant is less complicated as it becomes the least expensive of the lot, undercutting Ambition-AT by INR 25,000.

Okay. With those numbers out of the way, let’s shift our focus to the engine. Both Ambition Classic variants are available with the 1.0-litre TSI motor that produces 114bhp/178Nm. You can have it with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed torque converter. With the former, the Kushaq can return up to 17.88kmpl. That number drops to 15.78kmpl with the automatic gearbox in the equation.

In terms of features, the Ambition Classic trim offers almost the same stuff as the Ambition. The price difference comes from gadgets such as wireless support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, MySkoda Connect and automatic climate control. Besides those, the Ambition Classic offers many chrome embellishments over Ambition and contrasting roof foils (white for Carbon Steel colour and Glossy Black for others). Other features like 16-inch alloy wheels, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 6-speaker sound system, cruise control and a rear-view camera are available in both trim levels.

So, there you have it. Skoda has tried to strike a better balance between features and price. Do you think it has done a good job, especially with strong opposition like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and the Volkswagen Taigun? If not, which one would you buy out of the lot?