What is the new sub-4m SUV's performance like on a daily basis?
Reality vs. Claim
According to Škoda, the Kylaq's 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol manual variant gets 19.68 km/l, which is ARAI-certified.
However, under real-world driving circumstances, the results were different.
The Configuration for the Test
Real-world fuel efficiency was measured by driving the Kylaq manual gearbox model (1.0-liter turbocharged petrol, 114 bhp / 178 Nm) in both urban and rural environments.
Driving Outcome in the City
The SUV used 7.49 liters of gasoline in stop-go traffic in urban areas (approximately 80 km driven), giving it a real-world city mileage of 10.68 km/l (the trip-meter indicated 11.1 km/l).
This demonstrates how idling, frequent gear changes, and heavy traffic drastically cut mileage as compared to optimal circumstances.
Performance of the Highway
The highway number was 14.02 km/l (the onboard computer showed ~15.1 km/l), but it used 6.49 liters on the open road (91 km at a constant 85-95 km/h).
Although it was still much below the stated 19.68 km/l, it was better on clear roads.
Owner feedback and mixed driving
Overall, the manual's test average in mixed driving conditions was about 12 km/l. Similar findings are echoed by independent owner reports.
For example, one driver of the automatic version reported: “I have gotten up to 21 km/l on highways as well, but I am very light-footed on the pedal.”
These figures highlight the significant effects of speed, traffic, and driving style.
What This Signifies for Purchasers
Instead of the stated ~20 km/l, expect values closer to 10-11 km/l for the manual Kylaq if your usage is primarily in the city.
The number might improve to about 14–15 km/l for a combination of highway use, but it still doesn't meet the claim.
Gentler acceleration, less idling, and largely highway driving at moderate speeds are required to get close to the stated number.
Although turbocharged gasoline engines perform well, their efficiency may be limited in real-world scenarios, particularly in traffic.
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