Skoda Kylaq India’s newest compact SUV offering with a blend of style, spacious interiors, and performance, starting at an entry-level price of ₹7.89 lakh .Explore how it competes in India’s crowded compact SUV segment.
The Skoda Kylaq is Skoda India’s latest entry into the compact SUV market, bringing a well-rounded mix of style, space, and performance. Priced competitively, with an entry-level price starting at ₹7.89 lakh, the Kylaq aims to carve a niche in a crowded segment dominated by strong competitors like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and Kia Sonet. Here’s a deep dive into how the Kylaq Holds up in comparison against its rivals.
Dimensions and Interior Space
At 3,995 mm in length, the Kylaq fits neatly into the sub-4m category, essential for excise benefits in India. It’s almost identical in size to many of its competitors, but it shines in interior space and wheelbase length. With a 2,556 mm wheelbase, the Kylaq offers a spacious cabin, second only to the Mahindra XUV300, which is known for its generous cabin space and ability to comfortably seat three in the back. This makes the Kylaq suitable for families seeking comfort without sacrificing compactness.
The Kylaq’s wheel size and boot capacity are on par with the larger players in the segment, such as the XUV300. However, it lags slightly behind the Kia Sonet and Tata Nexon in boot space. The Tata Nexon boasts the best ground clearance at 208 mm, making it more suitable for rough terrains, while the Kylaq is optimized for city drives and smooth highways.
Engine and Performance
The Kylaq comes with a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 115 hp and 178 Nm of torque. Its 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox options offer smooth shifts and respectable acceleration, creating a dynamic driving experience that’s both responsive and refined. This places it in the middle range for power output among compact SUVs; for example, the Mahindra XUV300 leads with its 131 hp TGDi engine, while the Maruti Brezza offers a larger 1.5-litre engine but lacks a turbocharged option.
Where Kylaq falls short is in engine options—it only offers a single petrol variant, unlike some of its rivals. The Nexon, Venue, Sonet, and XUV300 provide both petrol and diesel options, catering to the minority who still prefer diesel. Additionally, the Nexon and Brezza are available with a factory-fitted CNG option, a valuable choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Features and Technology
The Kylaq aims to impress with a modern, tech-friendly interior featuring a floating infotainment screen, digital instrumentation, and Skoda’s commitment to premium materials and build quality. This feature set aligns with the expectations in this segment, where connectivity, ease of use, and safety are priorities.
It’s likely to include essentials like LED lighting, a touchscreen infotainment system, and safety features such as ABS and dual airbags as standard, with additional options in higher trims. That said, competitors like the Tata Nexon come with a rich feature list that includes connected car tech and a high ground clearance, giving it a slight edge in terms of versatility and ruggedness.
Pricing and Value for Money
The starting price of ₹7.89 lakh for the Kylaq positions it as an attractive choice, especially since it’s expected to max out around ₹14 lakh for the top trims. This puts it in direct competition with the Nexon, Venue, Brezza, and Sonet but slightly higher than the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite, which remain the most affordable in this segment.
Given Skoda’s reputation for quality and the features likely to be packed into the Kylaq, it promises good value for those who prioritize interior comfort, smooth handling, and brand trustworthiness. However, buyers seeking multiple engine choices or the rugged features of the Nexon might find more suitable options among its rivals.
Conclusion: Is the Skoda Kylaq a Good Choice?
The Skoda Kylaq brings a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and style to the compact SUV segment. While it doesn’t necessarily dominate in any one category, its well-rounded nature makes it a compelling option for buyers who prioritize interior space, quality, and a smooth, refined engine. With its competitive pricing, it’s expected to attract urban families and individuals seeking a practical yet stylish ride.
The Kylaq’s limitations, however, lie in its single engine option and the lack of a diesel variant, which could sway those looking for variety in powertrains. For buyers focused on rugged performance and high ground clearance, the Tata Nexon remains a strong alternative, while those needing maximum power might prefer the Mahindra XUV300.
Ultimately, the Kylaq is a solid new entrant in the compact SUV market, offering Skoda’s reliability and European design at a price that aligns with Indian sensibilities.