Skoda Kylaq lauched at Rs 7.89 lakh

Škoda Kylaq: Škoda's Bold Return to the Budget SUV Segment

Today marks an exciting day for car enthusiasts as Škoda has launched its newest compact SUV, the Škoda Kylaq. With this model, Škoda re-enters the sub-10 lakh rupee price segment after nearly ten years. Known for their focus on quality, performance, and European design, Škoda’s return to this affordable segment has the potential to reshape the market, especially in Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities, where the brand currently has a limited presence. Here’s an in-depth look at the Kylaq, including its boot space, performance specifications, and where it stands against competitors in the compact SUV category.

Exterior & Design

The Škoda Kylaq combines elegance with rugged appeal, featuring sharp lines and a bold front grille that is characteristic of Škoda’s design language. Slim LED headlamps give the vehicle a refined look, while the SUV’s overall stance exudes strength. Functional yet stylish roof rails and dynamic alloy wheels add to its sporty appearance, making the Kylaq suitable for both urban environments and adventurous terrains.

The design is optimized for aerodynamic efficiency, helping with fuel economy while also adding to the aesthetic appeal. Škoda’s attention to detail is evident throughout, with an emphasis on quality materials and finishes that stand out in this price bracket.

Interior & Boot Space

Inside the cabin, the Kylaq is both spacious and comfortable, designed with long trips in mind. Quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and high-grade upholstery create a premium experience usually found in higher-end models. The seating layout provides ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, ensuring comfort for all passengers.

One of the major highlights of the Kylaq is its generous boot space. Designed to accommodate luggage for family trips or outdoor excursions, the boot space is expected to be competitive within the compact SUV segment. This spacious cargo area makes the Kylaq an ideal choice for buyers who require practicality along with comfort.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the Kylaq is powered by Škoda’s 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine. This three-cylinder, turbocharged engine produces an impressive 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. The engine is designed for efficient power delivery, combining performance with fuel economy. This makes the Kylaq suitable for both city driving and highway cruising, where power is required for overtaking and maintaining higher speeds.

Buyers have the flexibility to choose between two transmission options: a six-speed manual transmission (MT) and a six-speed automatic transmission (AT). The manual transmission offers a more involved driving experience, allowing drivers to maximize the engine’s potential, while the automatic transmission provides convenience for city driving, especially in congested areas. The Kylaq’s drivetrain is engineered for smooth gear shifts and responsive handling, enhancing the driving experience.

Driving Experience

For those wondering how the Kylaq handles, our experience with a pre-production model was promising. The Kylaq offers a refined and stable ride, with suspension tuning that absorbs bumps and provides comfort on rough roads. The compact dimensions make it easy to navigate through tight city streets, while the elevated ground clearance and sturdy build make it capable of handling light off-road conditions as well.

The steering feedback is precise, and the compact size of the vehicle ensures agility, making it a breeze to drive even in dense urban settings. Furthermore, the TSI engine’s turbocharged power delivery ensures that acceleration feels smooth and responsive, a critical factor for drivers looking for an enjoyable driving experience in the compact SUV segment.

Technology & Features

Škoda has equipped the Kylaq with a host of advanced features that cater to the modern driver. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large infotainment touchscreen, compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This enables seamless integration of smartphone functionalities, from navigation to music streaming and hands-free calls.

The digital instrument cluster provides vital information in a clear and accessible format, helping drivers stay informed without distraction. Keyless entry, push-button start, and a rearview camera with parking sensors are among the convenience features that enhance the daily driving experience. Moreover, the Kylaq comes with automatic climate control, a USB charging port, and a high-quality audio system, adding to the comfort and convenience on every journey.

Safety

Safety has always been a priority for Škoda, and the Kylaq is no exception. The vehicle is equipped with essential safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), dual airbags, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. These features help in providing a secure ride for passengers, a critical factor for families looking for a compact SUV.

Additionally, Škoda offers optional features like ESC (Electronic Stability Control), Hill Start Assist, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). These advanced safety technologies not only add an extra layer of security but also ensure greater control and stability, particularly in challenging driving conditions.

Competitors in the Segment

The Škoda Kylaq enters a highly competitive market segment, facing well-established rivals such as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV300, Maruti Fronx, Maruti Brezza, and Toyota Taisor. Each of these models has a strong presence and comes with its own unique features, but the Kylaq’s combination of European styling, premium materials, and competitive pricing make it a formidable contender.

For instance, the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet are known for their advanced technology and compact design, making them popular choices among tech-savvy urban buyers. Meanwhile, models like the Maruti Brezza and Mahindra XUV300 are lauded for their robust builds and reliability. However, Škoda’s reputation for quality engineering and attention to detail could make the Kylaq an appealing choice for buyers who value performance and style without a hefty price tag.

Pricing & Market Impact

One of the biggest attractions of the Kylaq is its pricing. By targeting the sub-10 lakh rupee price bracket, Škoda aims to make the Kylaq accessible to a wider range of customers. This marks an important strategic move for Škoda, especially as they seek to expand into Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities across India.

These regions are rapidly growing in terms of vehicle ownership, and the demand for compact SUVs is particularly high. By offering a well-equipped, affordably priced SUV, Škoda has the opportunity to capture a significant share of this market, which could drive volume sales and strengthen the brand’s presence in India.

Conclusion

The Škoda Kylaq’s launch is a significant moment for Škoda and a promising addition to the compact SUV segment. With its premium design, powerful yet efficient engine, advanced features, and affordable price, the Kylaq is likely to appeal to a wide range of buyers.

As Škoda re-enters the budget-friendly segment after nearly a decade, the Kylaq has the potential to reshape the landscape of compact SUVs in India. Whether you're looking for a stylish city car, a comfortable family vehicle, or a practical SUV for weekend getaways, the Škoda Kylaq stands out as a well-rounded option with a European touch.