The Skoda Kylaq is Skoda Auto India’s entry into the growing sub-4-metre compact SUVs segment. It is the brand’s first SUV under 4 metres in length, designed specifically for Indian market preferences, combining compact size with Skoda’s design language, technology, and safety features. Let’s talk about the Skoda Kylaq in detail in this article
Launch & Price
- Unveiled globally in India in November 2024.
- Bookings opened 2 December 2024.
- Deliveries began on 27 January 2025.
- Starting ex-showroom price: ₹ 7,55,000.
- Available in four variants: Classic, Signature, Signature+, Prestige (with both manual and automatic transmission options in higher variants).
Dimensions & Platform
- Length: 3,995 mm (just under 4 metres)
- Width: 1,783 mm
- Height: 1,619 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,566 mm
- Ground clearance: 189 mm
The Kylaq is built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the same underpinnings used for the Skoda Kushaq and Slavia.
Performance / Engine
- Engine: 1.0-litre TSI (turbo-petrol) producing 178 Nm torque and around 114 bhp (85 kW) depending on source.
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic (AT) for select variants.
- 0-100 km/h in ~ 10.5 seconds (manual)
- Top speed: ~ 188 km/h (claimed)
Skoda Kylaq is one of the best-handling sub-4-metre compact SUVs in this segment. It has a strong performance around 1700 rpm, and it pulls all the way up to 4000 rpm. The mid-range punch is amazing, though if you are below 1700 rpm, you can feel the turbo lag. Overall driving experience of Skoda Kylaq is amazing, if you are looking for a driver’s car in this segment, Kylaq should be your pick.
Design & Features
Exterior:
- Follows Skoda’s new Modern Solid design language.
- Split headlamp setup: LED DRLs up high, main lamps lower down.
- Bold grille with 3D ribs, aluminium accent on front spoiler, roof rails, body cladding to emphasise SUV character.
- Rear: T-shaped LED signature lamps.
Interior & Utility:
- Boot space: 446 litres, among the largest in its segment.
- Features: wireless smartphone charger, ventilated front seats, power adjustment for driver seat (in some trims), cooled glovebox, single-pane Sunroof, etc.
- Infotainment: 10-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto.
- Instrument cluster: 8-inch digital unit.
Safety & Standards
- 5 Star in Bharat NCAP
- Comes standard with six airbags.
- Over 25 active and passive safety features, including (but not limited to) traction control, electronic stability control, electronic differential lock, rollover protection, multi-collision braking, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seats.
- Claimed to target high safety ratings. (The MQB-A0-IN platform is used in other Skoda / VW models, which have secured good safety scores.)
Variants & Pricing (Ex-Showroom)
Below is the variant-wise pricing for Kylaq after the GST tax cut
| Variant | Manual (MT) Price | Automatic (AT) Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | ₹ 7,55,000 | — |
| Signature | ₹ 9,00,000 | ₹ 10,00,000 |
| Signature+ | ₹ 10,34,000 | ₹ 11,34,000 |
| Prestige | ₹ 11,84,000 | ₹ 12,80,000 |
Strengths & Challenges
What it does well:
- Boot space is excellent for the size, among the best in its class.
- Solid power/torque figures for a 1.0-litre engine.
- One of the best-handling sub-4-metre compact SUVs
- Attractive design cues, premium feel brought down to a more affordable package.
What to watch out for:
- Only one engine option (1.0-litre TSI) – so limited choices. No diesel, no hybrid.
- Automatic is a torque converter, not DSG or dual-clutch, which some buyers may prefer.
- Real-world fuel economy heavily depends on driving style.
- Rear Seat space for 3 adults is a tight fit; also, for two large adults on long drives, the back seat can feel cramped.
- After-sales service, maintenance costs, and spares availability are always factors for newer variants/models.
Positioning & Rivals
The Kylaq competes in a crowded, yet very important, segment of sub-4-metre compact SUVs in India. Its rivals include:
- Hyundai Venue
- Kia Sonet
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza
- Mahindra 3XO
- Tata Nexon
Because it combines features, safety, and Skoda’s brand perception of build quality, Kylaq aims to offer a premium feel at a price closer to the mid-segment. Its pricing undercuts some rivals (in lower trims) while offering more standard safety & utility features.
Conclusion
The Skoda Kylaq is a strong entry by Skoda into the sub-4-metre SUV segment. It leverages:
- a well-trusted platform (MQB-A0-IN).
- Good performance & handling.
- strong safety credentials.
- generous boot space
… all packed in a design with premium cues. For buyers seeking a Skoda badge, good tech, safety and practicality in a compact footprint, Kylaq is a compelling package. But it will need to deliver the real-life ride, fuel efficiency, after-sales service and cost of ownership to fully live up to the promise, especially against rivals that are strong on those fronts.
FAQs on Skoda Kylaq (India)
1. What is the price of the Skoda Kylaq in India?
The Skoda Kylaq starts at ₹ 7.55 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base Classic variant and goes up to around ₹ 12.80 lakh for the top Prestige automatic trim.
2. Is the Skoda Kylaq a 7-seater SUV?
No, the Kylaq is a 5-seater compact SUV. It is built to fit under the 4-metre rule for tax benefits and urban practicality.
3. What engine does the Skoda Kylaq use?
It comes with a 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine that produces around 114 bhp and 178 Nm torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
4. What is the mileage of the Skoda Kylaq?
While official ARAI figures vary slightly depending on variant, the Kylaq delivers around 18–19 km/l (manual) and 16–17 km/l (automatic) in mixed driving conditions.
5. How big is the boot space in the Kylaq?
The Kylaq offers 446 litres of boot space, which is among the best in the sub-4-metre SUV segment.
6. Does the Skoda Kylaq have a sunroof?
Yes, only the top variant Prestige of the Kylaq comes equipped with an electric sunroof for added premium appeal.
7. Is the Skoda Kylaq safe?
Yes, it has scored 5 stars in Bharat NCAP, and safety is one of Kylaq’s strong points. It comes standard with six airbags, ESC, traction control, multi-collision braking, and more than 25 active & passive safety features. It’s built on the same MQB-A0-IN platform as the Kushaq, which has a proven safety record.
8. What are the competitors of the Skoda Kylaq?
The main rivals are:
- Hyundai Venue
- Kia Sonet
- Tata Nexon
- Mahindra XUV 3XO
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza
- Nissan Magnite / Renault Kiger
9. Does the Skoda Kylaq come with diesel engine options?
No, the Kylaq is offered only with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. Skoda has discontinued diesel options in India.
10. When did Skoda start delivering the Kylaq in India?
Deliveries of the Kylaq officially began on 27 January 2025.
