Introduction
Skoda India’s revival of compact cars was possibly breaking news when they first announced the arrival of the Kylaq SUV. Unlike the perception of Volkswagen and Skoda groups’ cars usually having a higher asking price, the Kylaq shocked everyone when the entry-level variant price was announced. Now that the prices of all the variants are out, let’s analyse what makes the Kylaq the next big thing for Skoda India.
Price
The Skoda Kylaq is available in four variants, namely, Classic, Signature, Signature+, and Prestige. As for the prices, the entry-level variant costs Rs. 7.89 lakh. Meanwhile, the entry point for the automatic versions is Rs. 10.59 lakh for the Signature variant. On the other hand, the top-spec Prestige version will set you back by Rs. 13.35 lakh and Rs. 14.40 lakh for the manual and automatic options, respectively. That said, compared to the other compact SUVs in the segment, the pricing of the Kylaq is aggressive and puts it in the right spot in terms of value-for-money compact SUV options.
| SUV | Entry-level variant price | Entry-level turbo variant price | Entry-level automatic variant price | Top-variant price |
| Skoda Kylaq | Rs. 7.89 lakh | Rs. 7.89 lakh | Rs. 10.59 lakh | Rs. 14.40 lakh |
| Tata Nexon | Rs. 8 lakh | Rs. 8 lakh | Rs. 9.49 lakh | Rs. 15.50 lakh |
| Maruti Suzuki Brezza | Rs. 8.34 lakh | - | Rs. 11.09 lakh | Rs. 14.14 lakh |
| Kia Sonet | Rs. 8 lakh | Rs. 9.63 lakh | Rs. 12.51 lakh | Rs. 15.77 lakh |
Now, compared to its major competitors, the Skoda Kylaq surely misses out on variety when it comes to powertrain options. Some SUVs offer diesel and CNG options too, such as the Nexon. Nevertheless, the Skoda Kylaq gets a six-speed manual gearbox from the base variant itself, making it the only SUV to do so. Although there are limited powertrain options, the available turbo-petrol engine will likely meet all the performance needs. With all these aspects, the Kylaq surely can be a worthy option for people looking for a compact SUV.
Design
‘Timeless’ is something that has always been an adjective for Skoda cars. And this is the case with the Kylaq too. In terms of looks, the Kylaq resembles the Kushaq in so many ways, which in itself carries very understated and evergreen aesthetics.
The split LED headlamps at the front, typical Skoda grille, 17-inch wheels, and wrap-around taillamps are some of the design highlights of the new Kylaq. There is no need for any aggressive styling cues with the panels and that is another characteristic of the understated look.
Perspective-wise, at this price point, we usually get to see compact SUVs that feel like a jacked-up hatchback. However, the Kylaq is more of a shrunken-down version of the Kushaq, which is a good thing in itself.
Interior and features
On the inside, the Skoda Kylaq’s inspiration from the Kushaq is evident. The dashboard layout, infotainment screen, shape of the AC vents, steering wheel, instrument panel, seats, and the touch-capacitive HVAC panel are all similar to those of the elder sibling.
Feature-wise, this new compact SUV is decently equipped too with powered and ventilated front seats, electric sunroof, wireless charger, automatic climate control, TPMS, six airbags, USB Type-C charging ports, auto headlamps, auto wipers, auto-dimming IRVM, and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Except for the in-trend 360-degree camera and some level of ADAS suite, the Kylaq’s cabin is packed with all the expected features.
Powertrain
The most exciting aspect of the Kylaq’s existence in the market is the powertrain it comes bundled with. Using the Kushaq’s and Slavia’s tried and tested 1.0-litre TSI petrol motor along with a six-speed manual and an automatic gearbox, the Kylaq is sorted in the powertrain department.
Unlike other manufacturers that give an NA petrol engine for the entry-level variants, Skoda is adamant about offering the same performance that the top-spec gets with the base variant. This turbo-petrol motor is capable of producing 114bhp and 178Nm of torque. Combined with the excellent dynamics of the car, the Kylaq could very well be the most fun-to-drive turbo petrol car in the price range.
