By Muhammed Hashim 
The Skoda Kylaq might be smaller than a Fabia supermini, but offers plenty of practicality for the segment
- The Indian-developed Skoda Kylaq is the smallest offering of the Czech brand.
- The sub-4m SUV targets a segment accounting nearly 50% of sales in India.
- It is powered by a 1.0 TSI engine with 113 hp, and starts from INR 789,000 ($9,400).
Skoda has introduced a new entry-level SUV for the Indian market. The Skoda Kylaq is the third model developed in India, following the Kushaq SUV and the Slavia sedan, aiming to compete in the sub-4m segment which accounts for nearly half of the overall sales in the local market.
With a length of 3,995 mm (157.2 inches), the Kylaq is the smallest Skoda offering, sitting below the Indian-spec Kushaq (4,225 mm / 166 inches) and the EU-spec Kamiq (4,241mm / 167 inches). In fact, it is smaller even compared to the EU-spec Fabia (4,108 mm/ 161.7 inches) supermini hatchback, while having a similar wheelbase of 2,566 mm (101 inches).
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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 (7.4 inches) 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 (15.8 cubic feet). 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 proudly states that the Kylaq comes standard with 25 active and passive safety features (up to 35 in select trims), although these don’t include any sophisticated ADAS. At least, the SUV has six airbags, and is available with auto headlights and wipers.
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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 (85 kW / 115 PS) and 178 Nm (131 lb-ft) 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 (0-62 mph) in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 188 km/h (117 mph).
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 ($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.
