Skoda Kylaq

Skoda enters the sub-4 metre SUV segment for the first time with Kylaq. It is the most affordable SUV in the Skoda lineup and will only be available in petrol. It is powered by a 1-litre turbo petrol engine and is available in manual and automatic transmission options. Prices for the Kylaq start at Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom).

Skoda Kylaq pricing

The Skoda Kylaq is available four variants, with prices starting at Rs 7.89 lakh ex-showroom. The Kylaq’s automatic versions are priced between Rs 10.59 lakh and Rs 14.40 lakh, while the manual versions are priced between Rs 7.89 lakh and Rs 13.35 lakh, ex-showroom.

Skoda Kylaq engine specs

Skoda Kylaq is available with a single-engine option. The 1-litre TSI engine delivers an output of 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque, like the Kushaq and the Slavia. The turbo petrol engine is mated to a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic torque converter transmission. 

Skoda Kylaq mileage

Skoda claims that the Kylaq manual will be one of the top fuel-efficient SUVs in its segment with a mileage of around 20 kmpl. The Kylaq torque converter automatic version is expected to return 1-2 kmpl less.

Skoda Kylaq features

Skoda Kylaq comes equipped with features like a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch digital driver display, a single-panel sunroof, a wireless phone charger, ventilated front seats and a six-way electrically adjustable front two seats, a first in the segment.

Skoda Kylaq review

Skoda is all set to officially enter the sub-4-metre segment with the unveiling of the Kylaq on November 6. This made-in-India compact SUV is poised to be the Czech Republic automaker’s most significant product in India. Before its official debut, we had the opportunity to drive a camouflaged pre-production version of the Kylaq under various driving conditions. Here are our first impressions of the compact SUV.

Skoda Kylaq: What is it?

The Kylaq plays an important role in Skoda’s 2.5 India strategy. It is the third vehicle based on the MQB A0-IN platform, after the Kushaq and the Slavia. This is the first time Skoda will enter the sub-4-metre category in the Indian market. Emphasizing the SUV’s significance, it will be produced at the Chakan facility in Pune, with an anticipated annual output of 50,000 to 70,000 units. Skoda aims to make Kylaq a force to reckon with in the compact SUV  segment that accounts for nearly 30 per cent of sales in India. The Kylaq is set to compete with the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and the Mahindra 3X0.

Skoda Kylaq: Engine

The Kylaq is equipped with a 1-litre TSI engine, delivering an output of 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque, like the Kushaq and the Slavia. At the Coimbatore Autosports and Transport Trust (CoASTT) race track, we tested the 6-speed manual version, undertaking challenges like slalom, moose, and brake tests from 80 kmph to a complete stop. The Moose test first demonstrated the Kylaq’s stability, as it remained firmly on the tarmac while weaving through cones.

The subsequent brake test revealed that with properly calibrated front disc and rear drum brakes, the vehicle stops promptly, reducing accident risks. The Kylaq confirmed its reliability when we applied the brakes from 80 kmph to a halt. It was most impressive during the slalom, nimbly zigzagging through the cones.

The track offered a perfect opportunity to push the Kylaq to its limits. Accelerating and upshifting were seamless; the gears engaged smoothly, and the 3-cylinder engine provided substantial power in the mid-range. Notably, the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels remained low, even under aggressive driving. With taller gear ratios, we could comfortably drive in third gear across the entire track. Additionally, the Kylaq features a 6-speed automatic torque converter, which transitions gears fluidly tackling the stop-and-go nature of city traffic.

Skoda Kylaq: Handling and Ride Quality

The track demonstrated the Kylaq’s poise and stability as it effortlessly tackled sharp, high-speed corners. This new SUV is akin to an immovable object that refuses to falter and stays firmly planted on the tarmac. The Kylaq was also tested on a narrow go-kart circuit, where it asserted its dominance in manoeuvrability and turning radius. Despite its large size, it navigates the track with the agility of a smaller car. A key feature is the lightweight steering wheel, which provides just enough feedback to navigate tight corners with ease. In everyday conditions, parking the SUV should be a simple task.

The Kylaq provides a balanced ride quality, although it feels slightly softer compared to the Kushaq. Sitting on the rear bench while driving over gravel terrain, the suspension effectively neutralized the rough conditions and maintained stability. Skoda has achieved a precise suspension setup that avoids the wallowing effect often felt with softer suspensions.

Skoda Kylaq safety

The Kylaq comes standard with over 25 active and passive safety features, including six airbags, traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Disc Wiping, Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Passenger airbag de-activation, Multi Collision Braking and ISOFIX seats.

Skoda Kylaq colours

Skoda Kylaq is available in seven colours including a new exclusive one. The paint schemes are Tornado Red, Brilliant Silver, Candy White, Carbon Steel, Lava Blue, Deep Black and exclusive Olive Gold.