Skoda has launched its most affordable SUV, the Kylaq, aimed squarely at the burgeoning Indian market. As the third model developed in India, the Kylaq targets the highly competitive sub-compact segment, which accounts for nearly half of all sales in the local automotive landscape. Measuring 3,995 mm in length, the Kylaq is Skoda’s smallest offering, positioned below the Indian-spec Kushaq (4,225 mm) and the EU-spec Kamiq (4,241 mm). In fact, it’s even shorter than the EU-spec Fabia (4,108 mm) supermini hatchback, while sharing a similar wheelbase of 2,566 mm.
The Kylaq adopts Skoda’s Modern Solid
styling language with an extra touch of simplicity due to being a
budget-friendly offering. The split LED headlights flank the black grille,
while the shape of the taillights is reminiscent of the Hyundai Exter. Skoda
designers added a few styling features from the SUV rulebook including plastic
cladding, aluminum-style skid-plates, roof rails, squared-off wheel arches, and
189 mm of ground clearance. The Kylaq will be available in five
exterior shades, including the pictured Olive Gold which is new.
Despite the small footprint, Skoda claims
that the Kylaq offers a spacious interior with a segment-leading cargo capacity
of 446 lt. Practicality is further enhanced thanks to an
array of Simply Clever features. The digital cockpit comprises a 10.1-inch
touchscreen for the infotainment and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. The
model offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, alongside
wireless charging for smartphones. Higher trims feature six-way electric seats
with ventilation and leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, and an
electric sunroof, which is an Indian favorite. Skoda emphasizes safety, stating
that the Kylaq comes standard with 25 active and passive safety features
(increasing to 35 in select trims). However, it lacks advanced
driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Notably, it is equipped with six airbags and
features like automatic headlights and wipers.
The Kylaq rides on the Indian-developed
MQB-A0-IN architecture, a low-cost version of the VW Group’s MQB platform for
emerging markets. The same platform underpins the slightly larger Skoda Kushaq
/ Slavia, and the VW Taigun / Virtus. The Kylaq is also expected to share most
of its parts with VW’s upcoming entry-level SUV for Brazil.
Under the hood lies a turbocharged
1.0-liter TSI three-cylinder gasoline engine producing 113 hp and 178 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels
through a six-speed manual or an optional automatic. Thanks to its punchy
little motor, the Kylaq accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 10.5 seconds
and has a top speed of 188 km/h.
The Skoda Kylaq will be manufactured at
the Chakan plant in India. Its market launch is scheduled for early 2025, with
a starting price of INR 789,000 (US$ 9,400). Rivals in “India’s fastest-growing
and most competitive segment” include the likes of the Citroen New C3, Hyundai
Venue, Nissan Magnite, Toyota Raize, and Tata Nexon.
