Skoda Kylaq : In the ever-evolving landscape of the Indian automotive market, Skoda Auto India has made a bold statement with the launch of its latest offering – the Skoda Kylaq.
This compact SUV, unveiled on November 6, 2024, in Mumbai, is set to shake up the segment with its combination of premium features and competitive pricing.
Let’s delve into what makes the Kylaq a game-changer in the compact SUV arena.
Skoda Kylaq A Strategic Entry
The Kylaq marks Skoda’s first foray into the sub-4-metre SUV segment, a category that has been dominating the Indian market.
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Skoda Auto, emphasized the significance of this launch, stating, “The Škoda Kylaq is our first sub-4-metre SUV, designed in India and for India as a new entry point to our brand.”
This move aligns with Skoda’s ambitious goal to sell 100,000 cars annually in India by 2026, a target that underscores the company’s commitment to the Indian market.
Skoda Kylaq Pricing Strategy: Accessibility Meets Premium
One of the most striking aspects of the Kylaq is its pricing strategy. With a starting price of just ₹7,89,000 (ex-showroom), Skoda has positioned the Kylaq as the most accessible model in its Indian lineup.
This aggressive pricing puts it in direct competition with established players like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, and Hyundai Venue.
The Kylaq is available across four trim levels:
Classic (Base variant): Starting at ₹7.89 lakh
Signature: Starting at ₹9.59 lakh (Manual), ₹10.59 lakh (Automatic)
Signature Plus: Starting at ₹11.40 lakh (Manual), ₹12.40 lakh (Automatic)
Prestige (Top variant): Starting at ₹13.35 lakh, up to ₹14.40 lakh
This tiered pricing approach ensures that there’s a Kylaq for every budget, from first-time buyers to those seeking a feature-packed premium compact SUV.
Skoda Kylaq Powertrains: Efficiency Meets Performance
Under the hood, the Kylaq boasts a 1.0 TSI engine that strikes a balance between performance and efficiency.
This powerplant produces 85 kW (approximately 114 bhp) of power and 178 Nm of torque. The engine’s capabilities translate to impressive performance figures:
Acceleration: 0-100 kph in 10.5 seconds (with manual transmission)
Top speed: 188 kph
Transmission options include a six-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic with paddle shifters in select variants.
This combination of power and transmission choices caters to both enthusiasts and those seeking a comfortable daily driver.
Skoda Kylaq Design Philosophy: ‘Modern Solid’
The Kylaq introduces Skoda’s new “Modern Solid” design language to the Indian market. Oliver Stefani, head of Skoda Design, explains, “Modern Solid stands for solidity, functionality and authenticity while conveying a sense of safety and strength.”
Key design elements include:
A shiny black grille with 3D ribs
Reinterpreted “four eyes” headlight graphic
Clean lines and short overhangs
New Skoda wordmark on the rear
Front lower spoiler in aluminium optics
Split headlamps and a boxy silhouette
The Kylaq is available in five color choices, including an exclusive Olive Gold, inspired by the lush landscapes of Lonavala during monsoon season.
Other options include Tornado Red, Carbon Steel (Black), Brilliant Silver, and Candy White.
Skoda Kylaq Dimensions and Practicality
The Kylaq’s compact dimensions make it perfect for urban environments without compromising on interior space:
Length: 3,995 mm
Width: 1,783 mm
Height: 1,619 mm
Wheelbase: 2,566 mm
Ground clearance: 189 mm
These dimensions, coupled with a generous boot space of 446 litres (expandable to 1,256 litres with folded rear seats), make the Kylaq a practical choice for both city driving and weekend getaways.
Skoda Kylaq Interior: Where Premium Meets Practicality
Step inside the Kylaq, and you’re greeted by an interior that punches above its weight class.
The cabin is designed to offer a spacious and comfortable experience, with features typically found in higher segments:
Ventilated six-way adjustable electric seats (front)
Option of single or dual-tone cabin themes
Electric sunroof (in higher trims)
Cruise control
Leatherette seating (in higher trims)
Bamboo-fibre infused dashboard pad with textile finish
Technology at Your Fingertips
The Kylaq doesn’t skimp on technology, offering features that enhance both convenience and driving experience:
10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system (25.6 cm in top variants)
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
8-inch Digital Cockpit (20.32 cm Virtual Cockpit in top variants)
Wireless charging
USB Type-C ports
Automatic climate control (in higher trims)
Skoda Kylaq Safety: A Top Priority
Skoda has equipped the Kylaq with an impressive array of safety features, setting a new benchmark in the compact SUV segment:
Six airbags as standard across all variants
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
Multi Collision Braking
Roll Over Protection
Electronic Differential Lock
ISOFIX child seat anchors
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
High-speed alert system
Seat belt reminders for all seats
The Kylaq’s safety credentials are further bolstered by its platform. Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, shared with the Kushaq and Slavia, the Kylaq benefits from a structure that has already achieved a 5-star Global NCAP rating for both adult and child occupant protection.
Skoda Kylaq Variant-Wise Breakdown
To cater to diverse customer needs, Skoda has carefully curated the features across the Kylaq’s variants:
Classic (Base Variant):
LED headlamps with LED DRLs
16-inch steel wheels with covers
Manual AC with rear vents
Power windows
Six airbags
Tilt-adjustable steering
Signature:
Adds to Classic:
16-inch alloy wheels
5-inch touchscreen infotainment
Dual-tone black and grey interior
TPMS
Steering-mounted controls
Automatic transmission option
Signature Plus:
Adds to Signature:
10-inch touchscreen infotainment
Digital instrument cluster
Automatic climate control
Cruise control
Paddle shifters (for automatic variant)
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Prestige (Top Variant):
Adds to Signature Plus:
17-inch alloy wheels
Auto-dimming IRVM
Ventilated front seats
Electric sunroof
Leatherette upholstery
Power-adjustable front seats
Skoda Kylaq Environmental Considerations
In line with growing environmental concerns, Skoda has taken steps to make the Kylaq’s production more sustainable:
30% (18.5 MW) of power used in manufacturing comes from solar energy
Plans to increase solar power usage to 75% by 2026
Water-positive facility, returning more water than consumed
Over 660,000 trees planted
Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Liquid Discharge Certifications
These initiatives not only reduce the environmental impact of production but also align with the growing consumer preference for eco-friendly products.
Skoda Kylaq Rigorous Testing for Indian Conditions
To ensure the Kylaq’s suitability for diverse Indian conditions, Skoda has put it through extensive testing:
Over 800,000 km of testing on Indian terrain
Temperature testing from -10 to +85 degrees Celsius
Elevation testing from sea level to 3,000 meters above sea level
This rigorous testing regime underscores Skoda’s commitment to delivering a product that can withstand the varied and often challenging conditions found across India.
Skoda Kylaq Market Positioning and Competition
The Kylaq enters a fiercely competitive segment, dominated by established players like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, and Hyundai Venue.
However, its combination of premium features, competitive pricing, and the Skoda brand’s reputation for quality positions it as a strong contender.
The Kylaq’s pricing strategy, starting just ₹10,000 higher than the Mahindra XUV 3XO (one of the most affordable options in the segment), demonstrates Skoda’s aggressive approach to capturing market share.
Skoda Kylaq Conclusion: A Game-Changer in the Making
The Skoda Kylaq represents a significant milestone for the Czech automaker in India.
By combining premium features, competitive pricing, and a focus on safety and sustainability, Skoda has created a product that has the potential to disrupt the compact SUV segment.
From its modern design language to its feature-rich interior and robust safety offerings, the Kylaq addresses the key demands of the Indian consumer.
Its aggressive pricing strategy, coupled with Skoda’s reputation for quality, positions it as a compelling option for buyers looking for a premium experience without breaking the bank.
As bookings open on December 2, 2024, and deliveries set to begin on January 27, 2025, the automotive world will be watching closely to see how the Kylaq performs in the market.
If initial reactions are anything to go by, Skoda may well have a winner on its hands – a compact SUV that truly offers the best of both worlds: premium features at an affordable price.
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