After much anticipation and speculation, Skoda has officially launched its latest compact SUV, the Kylaq, in India. With a starting price of Rs 7.89 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom pan-India), the Kylaq is set to captivate urban drivers with its blend of premium features and Skoda’s signature design elements. The Kylaq's pre-launch buzz has attracted significant attention, bolstered by spy shots and design leaks leading up to the official unveiling. With bookings set to open on December 2, 2024, Skoda enthusiasts can anticipate deliveries beginning on January 27, 2025, shortly after the SUV’s debut at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. The Kylaq will be available in four variants: Classic, Signature, Signature Plus, and Prestige, each tailored to meet different buyer preferences.
A Compact SUV with a Familiar Look
The Kylaq’s design borrows heavily from Skoda’s popular Kushaq model, featuring recognizable styling cues that add a unique flair to this compact SUV. Its distinct split-LED headlight setup combines aesthetics with functionality, as the LED daytime running lights (DRLs) sit just below the bonnet line while LED projector headlights are positioned above the bumper. This sleek design choice enhances both visibility and style, giving the Kylaq a confident road presence.
One of the hallmark elements of Skoda’s design, the iconic butterfly-shaped grille, is prominently featured on the Kylaq, flanked by a chunky, modern bumper with a honeycomb pattern on the central air dam. This not only adds a robust touch but also serves functional purposes in cooling and aerodynamics.
When viewed from the side, the Kylaq reveals its compact proportions. Designed to provide an agile driving experience, it is noticeably smaller than the Kushaq. Other side highlights include roof rails for added utility, 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels for a sporty look, and turn indicators integrated into the ORVMs, which enhance visibility during turns.
Rear Design Elements
At the back, the Kylaq sports wraparound LED tail lights with inverted L-shaped internal lighting elements, connected by a slim, black trim adorned with the ‘Skoda’ emblem. This design choice accentuates the SUV’s width, giving it a solid, planted stance. The ‘Kylaq’ badge on the lower left portion of the tailgate, along with a tall bumper and skid plate, completes the rear look, emphasizing both style and functionality.
Detailed Dimensions of the Skoda Kylaq:
- 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 rear seats in use, without parcel tray)
Kylaq’s Interior: A Modern Cabin Experience
Inside, the Kylaq carries forward Skoda’s reputation for premium and functional design. The cabin is characterized by a black-and-grey color theme, enhanced with silver and chrome details. This color scheme gives the interior a sophisticated, balanced feel, appealing to urban buyers seeking a refined driving environment. The two-spoke steering wheel adds a contemporary touch, complementing the semi-leatherette seat upholstery. These seating materials provide a mix of comfort and durability, suitable for both city commutes and longer drives.
Further detailing includes octagonal side AC vents, while the central AC vents are situated just below the large touchscreen display. Beneath these vents is a panel housing climate controls, which is a familiar design element carried over from the Kushaq. The layout ensures ease of access and a streamlined look.
Packed with Features for a Comfortable Ride
The Skoda Kylaq is well-equipped with features tailored to enhance comfort, connectivity, and convenience. The 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system offers a comprehensive suite of multimedia functions, ideal for both entertainment and navigation. Drivers also benefit from an 8-inch digital display behind the steering wheel, providing real-time driving information in a clear, digital format.
The Kylaq caters to modern conveniences, including a wireless charging pad for smartphones. The single-pane sunroof adds an airy feel to the cabin, while front seats with six-way power adjustment and ventilation provide personalized comfort.
Safety is a top priority in the Kylaq, with Skoda equipping the SUV with a standard set of six airbags. Additional safety features include electronic stability control (ESC) to maintain traction on various terrains, traction control for improved grip, and a multi-collision braking system designed to minimize the impact of potential accidents.
Performance and Powertrain Options
Powering the Kylaq is a 1-litre turbocharged petrol engine, capable of producing 115 PS and 178 Nm of torque. This engine is a familiar one, found in other Skoda models such as the Kushaq and Slavia. It is available with a choice of two transmissions: a 6-speed manual for those who prefer hands-on control and a 6-speed automatic torque converter for smoother shifts and easier city driving.
This combination of compact size and efficient powertrain makes the Kylaq suitable for both urban and highway driving, providing a versatile experience tailored to Indian roads.
Pricing and Rivals in the Market
Although Skoda has not yet disclosed the complete price range for all Kylaq variants, more details are expected during its showcase at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. Given the starting price of Rs 7.89 lakh, the Kylaq positions itself as a competitor in the compact SUV segment, going head-to-head with popular models like the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, and Renault Kiger. Additionally, it rivals sub-4 meter crossovers like the Toyota Taisor and Maruti Fronx, catering to buyers looking for an affordable yet stylish and feature-packed SUV.
Key Points to Remember:
- Variants: The Kylaq is available in Classic, Signature, Signature Plus, and Prestige variants, offering choices based on budget and feature preference.
- Design Similarities with Kushaq: The Kylaq features design elements reminiscent of the Kushaq, such as the split-LED headlights, LED tail lights, and Skoda’s signature grille.
- Interior Highlights: A black-and-grey theme with chrome accents, two-spoke steering, and semi-leatherette seats enhance the cabin’s look and feel.
- Tech Features: The SUV includes a 10.1-inch touchscreen, ventilated front seats, and a sunroof.
- Safety Equipment: Six airbags, ESC, traction control, and multi-collision braking provide comprehensive safety.
- Engine Options: The Kylaq is powered by a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine with 6-speed manual and automatic transmission options.
Conclusion
With its distinctive style, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the Skoda Kylaq enters the Indian SUV market as a promising choice for drivers seeking compact utility and urban appeal. Skoda’s decision to introduce the Kylaq in India aligns with the growing demand for compact SUVs, which blend functionality with affordability. As the Kylaq rolls out, it promises to deliver a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable driving experience, catering to both individual commuters and families. For those looking to book their Kylaq, reservations open in December, with the first drives set to begin in January 2025. The Kylaq is well-positioned to be a top choice in India’s bustling SUV market, blending Skoda’s trusted engineering with features tailored for Indian roads.
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