The sub-compact SUV segment in India has witnessed significant growth, with new entrants such as the Skoda Kylaq and Kia Syros vying for attention. While Kia already has a foothold in the market with the popular Sonet, the Skoda Kylaq, launched in November 2024, marks Skoda’s debut in this fiercely competitive segment. Bookings for the Kylaq began in December 2024, and with over 10,000 units booked within the first 10 days, the Czech automaker is set to commence deliveries on January 27, 2025.
Skoda’s aggressive pricing strategy and feature-rich offering are expected to disrupt the segment, challenging well-established models like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet.
Skoda Kylaq: Price Breakdown
Skoda has positioned the Kylaq as one of the most affordable sub-compact SUVs, with a competitive starting price of ₹7.89 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base Classic variant. However, this introductory price will only be available until the 33,333rd booking is completed. Here’s a detailed look at the pricing across variants:
| Variant | Transmission | Price (₹, ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Classic (Base) | Manual | 7.89 lakh |
| Signature | Manual | 9.59 lakh |
| Signature+ | Manual | 11.40 lakh |
| Signature (AT) | Automatic | 10.59 lakh |
| Signature+ (AT) | Automatic | 12.40 lakh |
| Prestige (MT, Top) | Manual | 13.35 lakh |
| Prestige (AT, Top) | Automatic | 14.40 lakh |
Skoda Kylaq: Design & Exterior
Skoda’s Modern-Solid design language makes its debut on the Kylaq, emphasizing a clean, robust aesthetic with sharp lines and a bold stance. The SUV features a boxy profile, split headlamps, and a modern butterfly grille, giving it a distinctive road presence.
Top trims of the Kylaq ride on 17-inch alloy wheels, while LED DRLs and headlamps come as standard across all variants. The compact overhangs, combined with short wheel arches, ensure a sporty yet practical look.
Skoda Kylaq: Interior & Features
The Kylaq’s cabin offers a premium feel, tailored for both comfort and functionality. Depending on the variant, the interior options include single-tone or dual-tone color schemes with fabric or leatherette upholstery. The Prestige trim offers a more luxurious experience with leatherette seats and six-way electrically adjustable ventilated front seats.
Key interior features include:
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (top trims only).
- 5-inch touchscreen and semi-digital instrument cluster on entry-level trims.
- Electric sunroof (top variants only).
- Multiple USB ports, automatic climate control, and rear AC vents for enhanced comfort.
Skoda Kylaq: Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Skoda Kylaq is powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI petrol engine, which also powers the Skoda Kushaq and Slavia. This engine delivers:
- 114 bhp of peak power
- 178 Nm of maximum torque
The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission, depending on the variant. Notably, unlike the Kushaq, the Kylaq does not get a 1.5-litre TSI engine option.
Skoda Kylaq: Safety Features
Skoda has prioritized safety with the Kylaq, equipping it with more than 25 active and passive safety features. Key safety highlights include:
- Six airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD
- Multi-collision brake
- Electronic differential lock
- Rollover protection
Additionally, Skoda claims to have tested the Kylaq extensively across 800,000 km of Indian roads to ensure it is well-prepared for diverse driving conditions in the country.