Skoda has expanded its SUV lineup in India by unveiling the all-new Kylaq, a compact and affordable model aimed at Indian car enthusiasts looking for a premium yet budget-friendly experience.
Launched with an introductory price of Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India), the Kylaq serves as Skoda's new entry-level SUV and brings a fresh offering to the competitive sub-4m SUV market. It is available in four broad trims: Classic, Signature, Signature Plus, and Prestige. The SUV will be showcased at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, and bookings will open on December 2, 2024, with deliveries beginning on January 27, 2025.
Design and Exterior Highlights
Taking strong design inspiration from Skoda’s popular Kushaq, the Kylaq features a similar but compact aesthetic, making it a stylish yet smaller addition to Skoda's SUV family. Its front fascia boasts the iconic butterfly-shaped grille, complemented by a split-LED headlight arrangement. Positioned just below the bonnet are the LED DRLs, while the LED projector headlights are mounted above the bumper, creating a unique lighting arrangement. Adding to its sporty appearance, the Kylaq has a robust, honeycomb-patterned air dam integrated into the chunky front bumper.
From the side, the Kylaq’s compact proportions become more apparent, with the vehicle featuring clean lines, roof rails, and dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheels that enhance its rugged look. The ORVMs are equipped with turn indicators, further accentuating its practicality and road presence. At the rear, the Kylaq continues its refined design language with wraparound LED tail lights that feature inverted L-shaped lighting elements. The tail lights are linked by a slim black strip emblazoned with ‘Skoda’ lettering, while the ‘Kylaq’ badge is situated on the lower left of the tailgate. A prominent bumper with a chunky skid plate completes the look, giving the SUV an adventurous edge.
Dimensions and Size
While compact, the Kylaq offers practical dimensions that maximize interior space without sacrificing maneuverability. Its dimensions are as follows:
Length : 3,995 mm
Width : 1,783 mm
Height : 1,619 mm
Wheelbase : 2,566 mm
Ground Clearance : 189 mm
Boot Space : 446 liters (with the rear seats in use without the parcel tray)
These measurements give the Kylaq a stable road stance, making it suitable for city driving and occasional long journeys. The 189 mm ground clearance and 446 liters of boot space ensure it can tackle Indian roads and meet the needs of practical-minded buyers.
Interior and Comfort Features
Skoda has ensured the Kylaq’s cabin aligns with its premium aspirations. Inside, the SUV has a black and grey theme, highlighted with silver and chrome accents for a touch of sophistication. The cabin comes equipped with semi-leatherette seat upholstery and a distinctive 2-spoke steering wheel, similar to the one in the Kushaq. The dashboard design is clean and modern, with octagonal side AC vents and a central touchscreen positioned above the climate control panel.
Skoda has integrated numerous comfort-oriented features in the Kylaq, including:
10.1-inch Touchscreen : The large display supports multimedia and navigation, providing seamless connectivity.
8-inch Digital Driver’s Display : This driver-focused display offers a clear view of vehicle information and navigation details.
Wireless Phone Charging : Convenient for charging smartphones on the go without cumbersome cables.
6-way Powered Front Seats : The front seats are ventilated, a luxury feature in this segment.
Single-Pane Sunroof : This adds an open and airy feel to the cabin.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety is a priority in the Kylaq, and it comes equipped with an impressive safety suite:
Six Airbags : Offered as standard, providing comprehensive protection for all occupants.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) : Ensures stable handling on different road surfaces.
Traction Control : Enhances the vehicle's grip on the road in varied conditions.
Multi-Collision Braking : Helps to mitigate the impact of multiple collisions, offering additional safety.
These features reflect Skoda’s commitment to making safety accessible, even in its entry-level models.
Powertrain and Performance
The Skoda Kylaq is powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 115 PS and 178 Nm of torque, which provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. This engine is familiar, as it is also used in Skoda’s Kushaq and Slavia models. The Kylaq comes with two transmission options: a 6-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed automatic (torque converter). This variety ensures that buyers can choose a transmission type that best suits their driving style and convenience.
Pricing, Competitors, and Availability
While the full price list is expected to be revealed at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, the starting price of Rs 7.89 lakh makes the Kylaq a strong contender in the entry-level SUV segment. Skoda’s new offering will compete with established models such as the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, and Renault Kiger, along with sub-4m crossovers like the Toyota Taisor and Maruti Fronx.
Final Thoughts
With the Kylaq, Skoda has introduced a feature-rich, safety-forward compact SUV that fits well within the budget segment while still retaining the brand’s premium essence. From its stylish exterior and well-equipped interior to its comprehensive safety suite, the Kylaq has positioned itself as a versatile choice for Indian car buyers. As bookings open in December and deliveries kickstart in January 2025, the Kylaq promises to be a well-rounded and appealing addition to Skoda’s portfolio.
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