Budget-Friendly And Feature-Packed: Skoda Unveils The Kylaq For India

Skoda is entering India's thriving SUV market with its most budget-friendly model yet—the Kylaq. As the brand's third locally developed model, following the Kushaq and Slavia, the Kylaq aims to grab attention in India’s high-demand subcompact SUV segment, which makes up nearly half of the country’s car sales.

The Kylaq measures 157.2 inches in length, making it Skoda’s smallest SUV. It’s shorter than both the Indian-spec Kushaq and Europe’s Kamiq, yet offers a similar wheelbase at 101 inches. Skoda's "Modern Solid" design language complements this compact build, showcasing split LED headlights encircling a black grille and taillights that bear a resemblance to the Hyundai Exter.

Skoda gave the Kylaq classic SUV touches, such as plastic cladding, aluminum-style skid plates, roof rails, squared wheel arches, and a generous 7.4 inches ground clearance. Buyers can choose from five exterior colors, including a fresh Olive Gold. Skoda also touts the Kylaq’s roomy interior, offering a class-leading 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space along with its signature “Simply Clever” features for added convenience.

Inside, the Kylaq sports a digital cockpit with a 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment and an 8-inch digital instrument display. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless phone charging available as well. Premium trims include perks like six-way electric ventilated seats, leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, and an electric sunroof—a top favorite among Indian car buyers.

For safety, Skoda equips the Kylaq with 25 active and passive safety features (up to 35 in higher trims), including six airbags and essentials like automatic headlights and wipers. However, ADAS features aren’t included. Built on the locally adapted MQB-A0-IN platform, a simplified version of VW’s MQB architecture tailored for emerging markets, the Kylaq shares its underpinnings with models like the Kushaq and Volkswagen’s Taigun.

Under the hood, a 1.0-liter TSI three-cylinder turbo engine delivers 113 hp and 178 Nm of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or an optional automatic. With this engine, the Kylaq goes from 0-62 mph in 10.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 117 mph. Manufactured at Skoda's Chakan plant, the Kylaq will hit the market in early 2025 with a starting price of around INR 789,000 ($9,400).