NEW DELHI: Škoda Auto India unveils the all-new Škoda Kylaq, the Czech brand’s first model in the popular sub-4-metre segment, which accounts for nearly 50% of sales in the Indian car market.
The Kylaq SUV is the first model in India to adopt elements of Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language.
It is powered by an efficient 1.0 TSI engine and features more than 25 active and passive safety features as standard.
The latest addition to Škoda’s line-up, developed and produced locally for the Indian market, will hit the roads in early 2025 with a very competitive price tag of INR 789,000 (around EUR 8,700).
The Kylaq is manufactured at the Chakan plant, where 30% (18.5 MW) of the facility’s power is generated from solar energy. The company aims to increase this to 75% by 2026.
Developed and manufactured in India, the all-new Kylaq is Škoda Auto’s third SUV in the Indian market, joining the Kodiaq and Kushaq.
The Kylaq is specifically designed for the sub-4-metre category – a segment unique to India and highly popular, holding nearly 50% market share.
This compact SUV is built on the localised MQB-A0-IN platform, which also supports the Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan.
The all-new Škoda Kylaq represents a milestone in the brand’s history as the first-ever sub-4-metre SUV and the first Škoda model in India to adopt elements of the brand’s new Modern Solid design language.
Among its signature features is the shiny black grille with 3D ribs, which replaces the familiar Škoda radiator grille at the front. Also new is a bold lower front spoiler in aluminium optics.
The headlights use LED technology exclusively across all variants of the Kylaq.
The Kylaq combines compact dimensions, a spacious interior, superb handling characteristics and 189 mm of ground clearance.
The Kylaq is 3,995 mm long, 1,783 mm wide and 1,619 mm tall with a generous 2,566 mm wheelbase.
Equipped with a 1.0 TSI engine delivering 115 PS (85 kW) and 178 Nm of torque to the front wheels, the Kylaq offers a choice between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
It reaches a top speed of 117 mph (188 kph), and with the manual option, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 10.5 seconds.
Standard across all variants are 25 active and passive safety features, including six airbags, Multi-Collision Brake, Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, XDS+, Anti-lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and Electronic Stability Control, among others.
Select variants come equipped with over 35 safety features, such as cornering lights, automatic headlights and wipers, Hill Hold Control, and tyre pressure monitoring.
Leading its segment, the Kylaq’s boot offers 446 litres of storage, which expands to 1,265 litres with the rear seats folded down.
There are also numerous Simply Clever storage options, including a dedicated stowage space for the parcel tray.
Additional storage is provided in all four doors and the centre console.
Moreover, the Kylaq comes with bag hooks in the boot, Smartgrip bottle holders, coat hooks, ticket holders in the A-pillar, and a phone holder in the back pocket.
The Škoda Kylaq features a central, 10.1-inch (25.6 cm) infotainment display, boasting a clear, intuitive interface and graphic design.
It connects wirelessly to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and also supports wireless charging.
The driver’s 8-inch (20.32 cm) Digital Cockpit provides a clear and intuitive overview of all key driving data, including the speed, tyre pressure warning, cruise control and other useful information.
The Kylaq introduces several segment-firsts, including six-way electric seats with ventilation for the driver and front passenger.
Paired with Auto Climatronic, these ventilated seats provide optimal comfort in a market that faces both extreme heat and cold. Select variants also feature an electric sunroof.
Additional offerings include cruise control, steering-mounted paddle shifters with the six-speed automatic and leatherette seats.
The interior is available in a choice of single or dual-tone designs.
The Kylaq has been rigorously tested across more than 800,000 kilometres of Indian terrain – equivalent to over 20 trips around the Earth’s circumference or the distance to the moon and back.
Testing included altitudes from sea level to 3,000 metres and temperatures ranging from -10°C to +85°C.
To ensure top quality, the Kylaq’s polymer parts spent two years exposed to open-air weather conditions.
Additionally, 100 random samples underwent intensive water tests, facing 25-30 litres of water per minute/m² at angles up to 16 degrees to confirm zero water ingress, even in extreme monsoon conditions.
