Skoda Kylaq: Game Changer or Just Another Contender in India’s Compact SUV Arena?
With the release of the Czech automaker’s most reasonably priced SUV to date, the Skoda Kylaq, the compact SUV market just got hotter. This sub-4-meter SUV, which is priced between ₹7.89 lakh and ₹14.40 lakh (ex-showroom), is meant to compete with market titans such as the Mahindra 3X0, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and Kia Sonet.
Can the Kylaq, however, actually upend this saturated market? This is all the information you require.
Skoda Kylaq: Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Price Range | ₹7.89 lakh – ₹14.40 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Engine | 1.0L turbo petrol, 114 bhp, 178 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter automatic |
| Fuel Efficiency | Optimized for urban commutes with efficient stop-and-go performance |
| Platform | MQB A0 IN (same as Skoda Slavia and Kushaq) |
| Safety | 25+ safety features; 97% adult protection and 92% child protection in Bharat NCAP tests |
| Wheelbase | 2,566 mm — second-best in class |
| Boot Space | Best-in-class 446 litres |
| Top Features | Ventilated seats, sunroof, 10-inch infotainment system, bamboo accents, ambient lighting |
Design and Driving Dynamics
The Kylaq is Skoda’s first sub-4-meter SUV, blending compact practicality with premium aesthetics. Here’s why it stands out:
- Signature Skoda Design: Clean lines, bold stance, and timeless appeal.
- Responsive Driving: Built on the MQB A0 IN platform, the Kylaq handles like a sedan, offering cornering precision unmatched in its class.
- Effortless Urban Commute: The light steering and tight turning radius make it ideal for crowded streets.
Why Safety Is Its Superpower
The Skoda Kylaq takes safety to new heights:
- 25+ Standard Safety Features:
- 6 airbags
- Traction and stability control
- Multi-Collision Braking
- Roll Over Protection
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Bharat NCAP Ratings:
- Adult Protection: 97% (30.88/32)
- Child Protection: 92% (45/49)
Feature-Packed Cabin: A Closer Look
| Interior Feature | Details |
| Infotainment | 10-inch touchscreen, 8-inch digital instrument cluster |
| Seating | Ventilated, 6-way electrically adjustable driver and co-driver seats |
| Convenience | Cooled glovebox, wireless charging, touch-controlled climate settings |
| Unique Touches | Bamboo fibre dashboard accents, ambient lighting, rear bench with 3 headrests |
| Simply Clever Additions | Grocery hooks, phone pockets, and tuck-in parcel tray |
How the Kylaq Compares to Rivals
| Feature | Skoda Kylaq | Maruti Brezza | Tata Nexon | Hyundai Venue |
| Engine (Power) | 1.0L turbo (114 bhp) | 1.5L petrol (102 bhp) | 1.2L turbo (118 bhp) | 1.0L turbo (118 bhp) |
| Boot Space (litres) | 446 (Best-in-class) | 328 | 350 | 350 |
| Safety Rating | 97% (Adult) | 88% | 86% | 83% |
| Price Range (₹) | 7.89L–14.40L | 8.29L–14.14L | 8.10L–15.50L | 7.76L–13.20L |
Skoda Kylaq: A Game-Changer in the Compact SUV Segment?
ISkoda’s Entry into the Sub-4-Metre SUV Market
“The more the merrier,” as the saying goes, is a fitting description of the very competitive small SUV industry. After careful deliberation, Skoda Auto India has finally made its debut in this market with the brand-new Kylaq. At an ex-showroom price range of Rs 7.89 lakh to Rs 14.40 lakh, the Kylaq is Skoda’s most reasonably priced car to date.
The Mahindra 3X0, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and Kia Sonet are just a few of Skoda’s fierce competitors. Kia intends to introduce another tiny SUV, which raises the stakes even further. Is the Kylaq, though, the “Simply Clever” SUV that buyers have been waiting for? Let’s look into it.
First Look: From Prototype to Reality
Wrapped in camouflage like a covert agent on a mission, the pre-production Kylaq made its debut last year. Now that the secret is out, we got to test the automatic version of Skoda’s newest small SUV.
Performance and Driving Experience
With just one engine option—a 1-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 114 horsepower and 178 Nm of torque—the Kylaq streamlines its engine lineup. Customers have the option of a 6-speed torque converter automatic or a 6-speed manual gearbox.
As soon as the engine starts, it is clear that the Kylaq places a high value on fuel economy and comfortable city driving. The Kylaq provides a controlled acceleration, which helps drivers maintain control when negotiating city traffic, in contrast to its siblings, the Slavia and Kushaq, which have the identical powertrain.
The engine’s smooth character gives first-time SUV buyers and hatchback upgraders confidence without being overpowering. The SUV can easily attain high speeds because the mid-range power kicks in strongly after the initial acceleration is composed.
The steering-mounted paddle shifters provide an additional boost of engagement for drivers looking for a more sporty ride on highways. The Kylaq offers one of the most engaging drives in its class, whether it is on the open road or in the city.
Handling and Ride Comfort
The Kylaq has a big-car feel when driving, despite its small size. The tiny turning radius improves urban drivability, and the light and precise steering makes navigating through small streets a breeze.
With its superior handling capabilities and more sedan-like behaviour, the Kylaq is built on the same MQB A0 IN platform as the Kushaq and Slavia. It maintains stability without any undesired floatiness because to its remarkable 189 mm ground clearance.
However, a hard suspension setup is a minor price to pay for this accurate handling. Road imperfections are still apparent even if the ride is more comfortable than the Kushaq’s. Skoda has, nevertheless, continued to provide a driving experience that leads its class.
Safety: A Step Above the Competition
The Kylaq places a high premium on safety, making it the safest SUV in its class, particularly for kids. With remarkable ratings of 30.88 out of 32 for Adult Occupant Protection (97%) and 45.00 out of 49 for Child Occupant Protection (92%), the Kylaq surpasses comparable SUVs that have received a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating.
Six airbags, traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake distribution, brake disc wiping, rollover protection, motor slip regulation, electronic differential lock, passenger airbag deactivation, multi-collision braking, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and more than 25 other standard safety features are all included in the Kylaq.
Cabin and Features: A Blend of Style and Functionality
The Kylaq’s interior boasts a contemporary, multi-layered dashboard with ambient lighting and accents of sustainable bamboo fibre. The SUV has a panoramic sunroof with anti-pinch technology, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 10-inch infotainment system.
A rearview camera, touch-controlled climate settings, front-ventilated seats, a cooled glovebox, and three headrests that can be adjusted on the back bench are examples of convenience features.The chrome-finished roller controls on the two-spoke steering wheel lend a high-end touch.
The Kylaq distinguishes itself from competitors by being the first vehicle in its class to provide 6-way electrically adjustable driver and co-driver seats. Skoda’s “Simply Clever” attitude is demonstrated by well-considered details like a phone pocket behind the front seats, two 3kg hooks for supermarket bags, and a tuck-in parcel tray for extra boot capacity.
Space and Practicality
The Kylaq’s impressive 2,566 mm wheelbase, which is second only to the Mahindra 3X0’s 2,600 mm, belies its sub-4 m footprint. This guarantees plenty of space for passengers in the back, enabling a comfortable sitting position.
With a 446-liter baggage capacity, the boot is one of the biggest in its class. In order to maximise storage without sacrificing passenger comfort, Skoda accomplishes this with a more upright rear seat. The scooped roof shape improves headroom, and the seats were comfortable and supported our thighs nicely throughout our test drive.
Areas for Improvement
One minor drawback is the rear AC performance. Even with direct airflow, the cooling felt underwhelming, especially in hot and humid conditions. This could be an issue for rear passengers during peak summer months.
A Strong Contender
Skoda Auto India has effectively entered the sub-4-meter SUV market with the Kylaq, which offers an alluring combination of functionality, safety, and performance. The Kylaq’s thrilling drive, high-end features, and solid safety credentials make it a formidable competitor against well-established rivals, even though the hard suspension and rear AC cooling could use some improvement.
The Kylaq is definitely something to take into consideration if you’re searching for a stylish and versatile small SUV.
FAQs: Everything You Should Know About the Kylaq from Skoda
Q1. How fuel-efficient is the Skoda Kylaq?
Indeed! While still providing a thrilling drive on highways, the 1.0L turbocharged petrol engine is built for efficiency, particularly in urban traffic.
- What is the Kylaq’s safety rating?
According to Bharat NCAP crash tests, it is the safest SUV in its class, getting 97% for adult protection and 92% for child protection.
Q3. What distinguishes the Kylaq?
It differs from rivals thanks to its Simply Clever features, which include bamboo accents, a tuck-in parcel tray, and grocery hooks.
Q4. Is there a diesel engine available?
No, the Kylaq can only be purchased with a 1.0L gasoline turbocharger.
Q5. What is the Kylaq’s ground clearance?
The Kylaq offers 189 mm of ground clearance, ensuring a smooth ride on bumpy roads.
Conclusion: Is the Kylaq Valuable?
The Skoda Kylaq is a great choice for individuals looking for a small SUV that is stylish, safe, and enjoyable to drive. Even though it has fierce competition from well-known rivals, its special combination of performance, security, and “Simply Clever” features makes it an appealing option.
Would you consider the Kylaq for your next car? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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