In a bold move that’s set to shake up India’s fiercely competitive sub-4-metre SUV segment, Skoda Auto India has unveiled its latest offering – the all-new Skoda Kylaq.
This compact SUV, slated to hit Indian roads in early 2025, marks Skoda’s first foray into a segment that accounts for nearly half of all car sales in the subcontinent.
A Design That Turns Heads
The Kylaq is more than just another entry in the crowded compact SUV market; it’s a statement of intent from the Czech automaker.
As the first model in India to sport elements of Skoda’s new ‘Modern Solid’ design language, the Kylaq cuts a striking figure on the road.
Gone is the familiar Skoda butterfly grille, replaced by a bold, shiny black grille with 3D ribs.
The front fascia is further accentuated by a muscular lower spoiler in aluminium optics, giving the Kylaq a robust, confident stance.
The LED headlights, standard across all variants, feature a minimalist design that reinterprets Skoda’s typical four-eye SUV face.
The side profile is characterized by clean, modern lines and robust cladding around the wheel arches, emphasizing the Kylaq’s SUV credentials despite its compact dimensions.
A hexagon pattern along the sides and rear adds a unique touch to the design.
For those looking to stand out, the Kylaq introduces a striking new Olive Gold paint option.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Kylaq doesn’t disappoint. It’s powered by a 1.0 TSI engine that delivers a punchy 85 kW (115 hp) and 178 Nm of torque.
This powerplant can be paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, catering to diverse driving preferences.
Despite its compact size, the Kylaq doesn’t shy away from performance.
It boasts a top speed of 188 kph and, with the manual transmission, can sprint from 0 to 100 kph in a respectable 10.5 seconds.
This combination of power and efficiency makes the Kylaq equally at home navigating city streets or cruising on highways.
Space and Practicality
One of the Kylaq’s standout features is its class-leading boot space.
With 446 litres of storage, expandable to 1,265 litres with the rear seats folded, it offers unparalleled practicality in its segment.
Skoda’s signature ‘Simply Clever’ features are present too, including a dedicated storage space for the parcel tray.
The interior is characterized by simplicity and clean lines, with new sustainable Design Selections adding a premium touch.
Despite its sub-4-metre exterior (3,995 mm long, 1,783 mm wide, and 1,619 mm tall), the Kylaq offers generous interior space thanks to its 2,566 mm wheelbase.
Safety First
In an era where safety is paramount, the Kylaq comes loaded with over 25 active and passive safety features as standard across all variants.
This comprehensive suite includes six airbags, Multi-Collision Brake, Roll Over Protection, and Electronic Stability Control, among others.
Higher trims push the safety envelope even further, offering up to 35 safety features.
These include advanced functions like cornering lights, automatic headlights and wipers, Hill Hold Control, and tire pressure monitoring.
Tech-Savvy Interior
The Kylaq’s interior is a tech enthusiast’s dream.
A large touchscreen infotainment system takes center stage, offering seamless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The fully digital instrument cluster provides customizable displays, ensuring that all vital information is just a glance away.
Climate control, wireless charging, and even a sunroof in higher trims round out the premium features list, making the Kylaq feel like a much more expensive vehicle than its price tag suggests.
Made in India, for India
The Kylaq is not just another global model adapted for the Indian market.
It’s a product of Skoda’s significant investment in its Indian operations, developed and manufactured locally at the Chakan plant.
This facility, which already produces 30% of its power from solar energy (with plans to increase this to 75% by 2026), underscores Skoda’s commitment to sustainability.
The Kylaq itself incorporates eco-friendly materials, such as a bamboo-fiber-infused dashboard pad, aligning with growing consumer awareness about environmental issues.
Market Positioning and Competition
With a starting price of INR 789,000 (approximately EUR 8,700), the Kylaq is positioned aggressively in a segment dominated by established players like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Tata.
Skoda’s strategy seems clear – offer a premium European brand experience at a competitive price point.
The Kylaq will go head-to-head with popular models like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Tata Nexon.
Its combination of striking design, advanced features, and Skoda’s reputation for build quality could make it a formidable competitor in this hotly contested segment.
Looking Ahead
The launch of the Kylaq is more than just a new model introduction; it’s a pivotal moment for Skoda in India.
As SUVs continue to dominate new vehicle sales, accounting for 50% of the market, the success of the Kylaq could significantly boost Skoda’s market share in the world’s third-largest car market.
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Skoda Auto, emphasized the importance of this launch, stating, “The Skoda Kylaq is our first sub-4-metre SUV, designed in India and for India as a new entry point to our brand.
India is key to our internationalization plans, and we want the Kylaq to welcome new customers who are looking in this popular and fast-growing segment.”
As the Kylaq prepares to hit Indian roads in early 2025, all eyes will be on Skoda.
Skoda Kylaq
Can this Czech brand, known for its European flair and engineering prowess, carve out a significant niche in India’s most competitive automotive segment?
The answer lies in the hands of Indian consumers, who will ultimately decide if the Kylaq has what it takes to stand out in a crowded market.
One thing is certain – with the Kylaq, Skoda has thrown down the gauntlet.
It’s no longer just about providing transportation; it’s about offering a premium, feature-rich experience at an accessible price point.
As the compact SUV segment continues to evolve, the Kylaq might just be the catalyst that pushes the entire industry to new heights of innovation and value.