We’ve all heard the saying, “the more the merrier”, and it definitely rings true for the compact SUV segment. After years of debating whether to dive into the sub-4-meter category, Skoda Auto India has finally taken the plunge with the all-new Kylaq. Priced between Rs 7.89 lakh and Rs 14.40 lakh (ex-showroom), this is Skoda’s most affordable offering yet.
Can the Czech carmaker take on heavyweights like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and even Mahindra 3X0? The competition is fierce, and with Kia gearing up to launch its second compact SUV, the stakes are higher than ever. But today, let’s focus on the Kylaq—is this the ‘Simply Clever’ compact SUV we’ve all been waiting for? Let’s find out!
Skoda Kylaq Review: Making daily drive a breeze
Last year, we got to sneak a peek at the pre-production Kylaq—all wrapped up in camouflage, like it was auditioning for a spy movie. But now, the mystery is over. We’ve finally had the chance to take the automatic version of this Skoda SUV for a spin.
The Kylaq keeps things simple with just one engine option: a 1-litre turbo petrol engine that cranks out 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. The automatic version gets a 6-speed torque converter, while the manual sticks to a 6-speed gearbox.
We fired up the engine, and it was clear from the get-go, that the 1-litre turbo in the Kylaq is all about fuel efficiency and making life easier in stop-and-go traffic. Unlike its siblings, like the Slavia and Kushaq, which also share this powertrain, the Kylaq’s initial response isn’t in a rush to throw you back into the seat. The measured acceleration means you’re always in control navigating through the usual urban chaos.
For those upgrading from a hatchback or first-time buyers, the engine’s nature won’t overwhelm you as it’s all about ease and confidence. Don’t be fooled by the calm demeanour, because once you hit the mid-range, the engine starts to come alive, surging past the triple-digit mark.
If you put the pedal to the metal on the highway then you would want it to show more urgency. Have no fear as Skoda has provided a cheat code — the steering-mounted paddle shifters. It adds more punch, letting you change gears effortlessly, and the Kylaq responds with enthusiasm. May it be in the city or on the highway, the Kylaq offers one of the most involving driving experiences in the segment.
From behind the wheel, the Kylaq feels like a big car, yet its light and responsive steering makes it a breeze to handle. The tight turning radius lets you easily navigate through crowded, narrow streets without breaking a sweat — a plus for first-time car buyers.
Skoda Kylaq Review: Ride and Handling
Built on the MQB A0 IN platform (same as the Kushaq and Slavia), the Kylaq has no competition when it comes to handling as it tackles corners like a sedan, not an SUV. It stays glued to the road, with zero floatiness, even with its 189 mm ground clearance. It’s so well-planted.
Now, all that precision comes with a firm suspension setup, which is noticeable when you’re cruising over less-than-ideal roads. It won’t make you feel like you’re on a roller coaster, but you will definitely feel the road more than in some of its rivals. The ride is definitely more comfortable than the Kushaq, though Skoda wasn’t about to ditch its reputation for delivering a class-leading driving experience.
Skoda Kylaq Review: Safety comes first
The Kylaq is the safest SUV in its class and more importantly for children. There are SUVs that have achieved a 5-star rating in Bharat NCAP tests, but the Kylaq takes it a notch higher. It scored 30.88 out of 32 points in Adult Occupation Protection, which is 97 per cent, and 45.00 out of 49.00 for Child Occupation Protection, which is 92 per cent.
The Skoda SUV comes equipped with over 25 standard 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 deactivation, Multi-Collision Braking, ISOFIX seats, and much more.
Skoda Kylaq Review: Cabin and Features
Skoda has given the Kylaq a cabin that’s as stylish as it is functional, featuring a multi-layered dashboard with sustainable bamboo fibre accents and sleek ambient lighting. Inside, you’ll find a 10-inch infotainment system, an 8-inch all-digital instrument cluster, and a single-panel sunroof with anti-pinch technology. The cabin also boasts a cooled glovebox, front-ventilated seats, touch-controlled climate settings, a rearview camera, and a rear bench with three adjustable headrests because comfort matters, even in the back.
The two-spoke steering wheel is a solid piece of craftsmanship, with chrome-finished roller controls that add a touch of premium flair. The Kylaq is the first in its segment to offer 6-way electrically adjustable seats for both the driver and co-driver.
True to Skoda’s “Simply Clever” philosophy, the Kylaq comes packed with handy features like a tuck-in parcel tray for extra height space, two 3kg hooks in the boot for your grocery runs, and a phone pocket behind the front seats for rear passengers. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of compact SUVs — compact, clever, and ready for anything.
For a sub-4-metre SUV, the Kylaq boasts an impressive 2,566 mm wheelbase, second only to the Mahindra 3X0 (2,600 mm). This gives the rear passengers a spacious area to stretch out. As for the boot, Skoda claims it has the largest in its class, offering 446 litres of space. The clever trick? A more upright rear backrest that maximizes storage capacity without sacrificing comfort.
From what we could tell during our brief drive, the seating posture is comfy enough for daily commutes, though we can’t vouch for long-distance trips just yet. The seats are generously cushioned, with an angled seat squab offering excellent thigh support. Plus, the scooped roof ensures plenty of headroom in the back, and the legroom is on par with its rivals.
However, there’s a little hiccup: the rear AC performance. Even with the vents aimed directly at me, the cooling was a bit underwhelming, especially in the heat and humidity.
Skoda Kylaq Review: Verdict
If we were shopping for a compact SUV, the Kylaq would make it to our test drive shortlist. With its signature Skoda design — clean lines, muscular road presence, and a look that only gets better with age. Add to that, it’s the safest SUV in the segment with top-notch driving dynamics, and let’s just say, it’s got the chops to impress.
The Kylaq is also loaded with tech and convenience features. However, Skoda’s biggest challenge might lie in cracking the Tier 2 and 3 cities, where its reputation of being “expensive to maintain” could be a bit of a roadblock. After all, the Czech car maker has been dealing with that reputation for the last 25 years in India.
