In a grand reveal on November 6, 2024, Škoda Auto India launched its latest and most accessible model yet: the Škoda Kylaq. Making its global debut in India, the Kylaq enters the market as Škoda’s first-ever sub-4-meter SUV, designed specifically for Indian roads and preferences. With a competitive starting price of INR 7,89,000, Škoda aims to attract a wide array of new customers seeking a compact yet powerful SUV option. This model not only expands Škoda’s presence in India but introduces its latest design language, “Modern Solid,” to give the Kylaq a distinct, robust look with a spacious interior.
The Škoda Kylaq: Built for Comfort and Performance
Škoda has placed comfort and practicality at the forefront with the Kylaq’s design. Inside, it boasts segment-leading features, including six-way electric seats for both the driver and front passenger, along with a ventilated seating option that ensures comfort in India’s varying climates. One standout feature is its impressive boot space of 446 liters, which can be expanded to 1,256 liters when the rear seats are folded down, making it an ideal choice for families, adventurers, and commuters alike.
Under the hood, the Kylaq houses a reliable 1.0 TSI engine capable of producing 85kW of power and 178Nm of torque. It’s available in both six-speed manual and automatic transmission options, giving drivers flexibility to choose based on preference and driving needs. With a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 188 km/h, the Kylaq promises a spirited performance that remains both efficient and smooth.
Safety at Its Core
Škoda has not compromised on safety with the Kylaq, making it one of the safest compact SUVs in its class. Equipped with over 25 active and passive safety systems, the Kylaq includes features such as six airbags, stability control, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), and motor slip regulation (MSR) as standard. Additionally, the model offers advanced systems like Electronic Differential Lock and Multi Collision Braking to enhance on-road security.
Each Kylaq undergoes rigorous testing across diverse terrains and extreme conditions, with Škoda putting the model through more than 800,000 km of testing across Indian roads. This endurance testing, covering varied conditions from -10 to +85°C temperatures and elevations up to 3,000 meters, assures drivers of the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.
A New Design Era with Modern Solid
The Kylaq is the first Škoda model in India to incorporate the “Modern Solid” design language, which emphasizes minimalistic lines, functional aesthetics, and an imposing yet approachable style. From the distinctive black grille with 3D ribs to the “four eyes” headlights graphic, the Kylaq is instantly recognizable. It’s also the first Škoda model in India to feature the new wordmark branding on its rear.
Inside, the dashboard sports a unique bamboo-fiber-infused pad with a speckled finish, adding a sustainable and stylish touch to the cabin. This aesthetic aligns with Škoda’s emphasis on blending elegance with functionality, which is evident across the interior’s design and layout. Complementing the dashboard is a large 25.6 cm infotainment display and a 20.32 cm virtual cockpit for the driver, both of which provide intuitive, high-quality interfaces.
Locally Designed and Named for India
In line with Škoda’s commitment to its Indian audience, the name “Kylaq” was derived from a unique, nationwide naming campaign. The name combines the Sanskrit word for crystal with Mount Kailash, symbolizing strength and purity. This naming choice echoes the larger Kushaq in Škoda’s Indian SUV lineup, which also carries a name rooted in Indian heritage.
The Kylaq’s compact dimensions – 3,995mm in length, 1,783mm in width, and a generous 2,566mm wheelbase – contribute to its nimble handling while maximizing cabin space. Additionally, the model offers a ground clearance of 189mm, allowing it to navigate city roads and rough terrain alike with ease. Adding to the distinctiveness of the Kylaq is its debut color, Olive Gold, inspired by the rich greens of Lonavala’s monsoon season.
Advanced Features for Modern Convenience
The Kylaq offers an array of convenience features that elevate it within the compact SUV segment. From cruise control and paddle shifters in select automatic variants to wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 25.6 cm infotainment screen, the SUV caters to modern connectivity needs. The presence of wireless charging further enhances the in-car experience for busy commuters.
Another exciting addition is the electric sunroof available in select variants, which brings a touch of luxury to the Kylaq. Not only does this allow occupants to enjoy an airy cabin, but it also lets in natural light, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Eco-Friendly Manufacturing Practices
The Kylaq is produced at Škoda’s Chakan facility, which aligns with the company’s sustainability goals. Currently, 30% of the energy at this facility is generated from solar power, with an aim to reach 75% by 2026. The plant is also water-positive, returning more water to the environment than it consumes, and boasts a Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Liquid Discharge certification.
Škoda’s commitment to eco-friendly practices extends to the Kylaq itself.This approach reflects Škoda’s long-term vision of reducing environmental impact while delivering top-quality vehicles.
Driving Škoda’s Growth in India
With the Kylaq, Škoda Auto India is making a strategic entry into the highly competitive compact SUV market, a segment currently witnessing a surge in demand across India. The company aims to build on its success in 2022, which marked a record year of sales, and to expand its footprint even further in the Indian market. According to Petr Janeba, Brand Director of Škoda Auto India, the Kylaq represents a significant step in Škoda’s growth plan, with a target to reach 100,000 annual sales by 2026.
Škoda’s focus on delivering European technology at an accessible price is a key part of this strategy. By keeping the Kylaq affordable without compromising on quality or features, Škoda hopes to attract a new generation of buyers who value style, safety, and performance.
A Promising Future with the Kylaq
As Škoda’s first sub-4m SUV, the Kylaq stands out as a thoughtfully designed, technologically advanced, and accessible vehicle tailored for India. Its blend of practicality, innovative features, and competitive pricing positions it as a strong contender in the Indian compact SUV segment.
For drivers eager to experience the Škoda Kylaq, bookings begin on December 2, 2024, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in Škoda’s journey in India.
