Skoda Kylaq Review – The sub-4-metre SUV segment dominates India’s passenger vehicle market, accounting for 60% of sales. Skoda’s newest entrant, the Kylaq, aims to disrupt this fiercely competitive space. With an aggressive starting price of ₹7.89 lakh, the Kylaq promises to offer a compelling mix of design, performance, and features. Let’s dive deeper into what makes it stand out.
Distinctive Design: A Blend of Familiarity and Boldness
The Kylaq’s design reflects Skoda’s evolving identity. Inspired by its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, the SUV features a split headlamp setup with sleek daytime running lights seamlessly integrated into a bold blacked-out grille. The flat bonnet and raised grille lend it a rugged, SUV-like stance, while details like matte-black air dam panels and silver faux skid plates enhance its adventurous persona.
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 2,566mm |
| Ground Clearance | 189mm |
| Width | 1,765mm |
| Height | 1,628mm |
| Boot Space (usable) | 360 litres |
From the side, stylish 17-inch alloy wheels and faux roof rails add character, while the rear features chiselled tailgate elements and chunky plastic cladding. However, the relatively small tail lamps could divide opinions.
Interiors: Familiar Yet Refined – Skoda Kylaq Review
Step inside, and the Kylaq greets you with a clean, premium cabin reminiscent of its sibling, the Kushaq. However, Skoda has added unique touches, including olive-green accents on the dashboard, octagonal air vent surrounds, and a light grey interior theme that brightens the space.
The front seats are powered, ventilated, and extremely comfortable. However, the shorter wheelbase compromises rear legroom slightly. The upright backrest and heavily contoured rear seats make the back row ideal for two adults.
| Interior Features | Top-Spec Kylaq |
|---|---|
| Sunroof | Yes (Prestige variant only) |
| Wireless Android Auto/CarPlay | Yes |
| Front Seat Ventilation | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Yes |
| Usable Boot Space | 360 litres |
The Kylaq also comes equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen, updated software, and decent sound quality. However, it misses out on advanced features like a 360-degree camera or ADAS, offered by some competitors.
Performance: Peppy Yet Refined
Under the hood, the Kylaq packs a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. Despite its small size, the engine feels lively, especially in the lighter Kylaq. Turbo lag is noticeable below 2,000 rpm, but power delivery becomes robust once past this mark.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Capacity | 999cc |
| Power Output | 115hp |
| 0-100 km/h (Manual) | 11 seconds |
| 0-100 km/h (Automatic) | 11.9 seconds |
The 6-speed manual gearbox is not the smoothest, requiring effort to shift gears, while the automatic transmission is more city-friendly, featuring a Sport mode and paddle shifters. However, gear downshifts can feel slightly jerky, and engine refinement leaves room for improvement.
Ride and Handling: Built for Thrills – Skoda Kylaq Review
The Kylaq’s stiff chassis and suspension offer a nimble, engaging driving experience. Despite its generous 189mm ground clearance, body roll is well-controlled. The light, precise steering ensures effortless city driving, though enthusiasts may desire more feedback.
However, the stiff suspension setup results in a slightly jarring ride at low speeds. Braking performance is strong and confidence-inspiring, even without rear disc brakes.
Verdict: A Compelling Compact SUV
The Skoda Kylaq enters the crowded compact SUV segment with a strong value proposition. Its engaging dynamics, solid build quality, and a well-rounded feature list make it a worthy contender. While it lags in rear-seat comfort and refinement, the attractive pricing and Skoda’s reputation for safety (5-star BNCAP rating) add significant appeal.
In essence, the Kylaq delivers a Kushaq-like experience at a more affordable price point. For those seeking a compact SUV with a fun-to-drive nature, the Kylaq is a solid choice.
