CARVERSAL

Compact SUV segments are quite contested in India. In fact, automakers are trying to strike that perfect equilibrium between performance, comfort, features, and pricing. The Kylaq is not just a compact SUV from Skoda, which is famous for European offerings. This compact would also take the fight to the leaders in this category like Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Mahindra XUV300.

The Skoda Kylaq comes with its design nomenclature that originated in Europe along with its turbocharged petrol engine and safety-first approach. However, does it have what it takes to be a segment leader? We took it for a ride to find out.

Design & Platform: European Sophistication Meets Indian Preferences

The new Skoda Kylaq is constructed on a modified version of the MQB-A0-IN platform, the same as the Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun. This localized platform or ground has already been able to prove itself, creating structural rigidity while keeping costs in check.

From a design view, the Kylaq forges ahead on Skoda's Modern Solid theme which features clean lines, sharp creases, and no fuss at all in its aesthetics. It gives an even more minimalist and premium look that is very European.

Key design elements include:

• A bold butterfly grille with chrome surrounds

• Split LED headlamp setup similar to larger Skoda SUVs

• Sporty 17-inch alloy wheels (higher trims)

• Dual-tone roof options for a stylish contrast

• All-LED taillamps with the signature Skoda C-shaped design

While the wheelbase is 2566mm, it guarantees there is room in the cabin even as the car remains compact in most measurements. The design is both sophisticated and practical, managing to land a healthy blend between premium appeal and rugged SUV characteristics.

Also Read: Skoda Enyaq iV EV SUV spied, Launch Soon In India

Interior & Features: Packed with Modern Tech

Indeed, once you enter the Skoda Kylaq, you will be bound towards an unhurried ambiance that could be somehow premium for its segment. The partitions have been kept clean and should not have any clutter on their well-accentuated driver-side ergonomics.

Key Interior Features

• 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

• Fully digital instrument cluster (higher trims)

• Two-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls

• Wireless charging pad

• Automatic climate control with rear AC vents

• Premium fabric upholstery with leatherette options

• Height-adjustable driver’s seat

When it comes to spaciousness and practicality, Skoda has given a good understanding, allowing lots of legroom and headroom to both front and rear passengers. Long journeys in the rear seat will not be that uncomfortable for three passengers as a result of the excellent support offered.

This means that one great feature of the boot is that it will contain 446 liters of cargo space, which is very much one of the best in its very own class. With 60:40 split-folding seats, this allows for even more flexibility in carrying larger luggage. 

Overall, the build quality is very solid, but some hard plastics are found on the dashboard that feels a bit inconsistent with Skoda's otherwise premium approach. 

Safety & Build Quality: A 5-Star Performer?

In terms of safety, Skoda has delivered everything in the new Kylaq to say that it has a 5-star Bharat-NCAP rating in its future. This is because this SUV is built strong and its safety features are robust.

Safety Features

• 6 airbags (top variants)

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

• ABS with EBD

• Hill Hold Assist

• Rear Parking Sensors & Camera

• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The MQB-A0-IN platform is already recognized as a structurally strong and safe architecture, making the Kylaq among the most secure options in its class.

Verdict: Should You Buy the Skoda Kylaq?

The Skoda Kylaq is an exciting addition to the compact SUV segment. It has:

✅ Premium European design
✅ Turbocharged petrol performance
✅ Class-leading boot space
✅ Strong safety package
✅ Competitive pricing

However, it misses out on being diesel-powered and has fewer advanced features as offered by the competition. With superior build quality and a very refined driving experience combined with practicality, these factors probably outweigh the missing elements. 

So, if one is on the hunt for safe well-built stylish compact SUVs, then the new Kylaq from Skoda is a must. Given Skoda's sales service viewpoint and aggressive pricing, this could make it Skoda's next bestseller. 

Would you like the Skoda Kylaq over the Tata Nexon or Hyundai Venue? Share with us in the comments. 

FAQs

1. What is the expected price range of the Skoda Kylaq in India? 

The Skoda Kylaq is estimated to be priced between ₹7.89 lakh and ₹12.5 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, thus placing it against competitors like Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet very well. 

2. What are the available engines and transmissions for the Skoda Kylaq? 

The Kylaq gets a 1.0L TSI turbo-petrol engine producing 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. For the transmission, it gets:

• 6-speed manual

• 6-speed automatic

Source: