Skoda Kylaq Unveiled, Skoda’s First Sub-4m SUV
Škoda Auto India has unveiled its latest compact SUV, the Kylaq, marking the global debut of this new model ahead of its official launch in January 2025. Priced competitively, starting at INR 7,89,000, the Kylaq represents Škoda’s first entry into the sub-4m SUV segment in India. With a clear focus on the Indian market, the Kylaq aims to cater to the increasing demand for compact SUVs, a segment that currently accounts for a substantial portion of new vehicle sales in the country.
Design and Features
The Kylaq brings a fresh design under Škoda’s new “Modern Solid” aesthetic, featuring a distinct black grille with 3D ribs and redesigned headlights. Measuring 3,995mm in length and 1,783mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,566mm, the Kylaq maintains a ground clearance of 189mm, allowing for a robust appearance suited to urban and semi-rural driving. The model offers five color options, with a new Olive Gold finish inspired by the lush landscapes of Lonavala.
On the inside, the Kylaq offers a spacious cabin with a best-in-class boot capacity of 446 liters, extendable to 1,256 liters when rear seats are folded. Interior features include six-way electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation, wireless charging, cruise control, and a 25.6 cm infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Select variants will also offer an electric sunroof, further enhancing the appeal in the compact SUV market.
Safety and Powertrain
Škoda emphasizes safety in the Kylaq, equipping it with six airbags, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and over 25 active and passive safety technologies. It comes powered by a 1.0 TSI engine generating 85kW and 178Nm of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The model is built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, previously used in the Škoda Kushaq and Slavia, both of which achieved five-star Global NCAP safety ratings.
Local Manufacturing and Sustainability Efforts
Produced at Škoda’s Chakan plant, the Kylaq aligns with Škoda Auto India’s sustainability goals. The facility currently sources 30% of its power from solar energy, with plans to increase this to 75% by 2026. The plant, certified for Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Liquid Discharge, also incorporates sustainable materials in the Kylaq’s dashboard, including bamboo-fiber pads.
Market Position and Škoda’s Future Goals
The introduction of the Kylaq forms part of Škoda Auto India’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in the Indian automotive market. Following the success of the Kushaq and Slavia models, the Kylaq is expected to strengthen Škoda’s presence in India by targeting the fast-growing compact SUV segment. Škoda has set an ambitious target of 100,000 units annually in India by 2026.
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