Škoda Kylaq: A Bold New Entry into the Compact SUV Scene

Škoda’s latest foray into the compact SUV market has got us all talking. Meet the Škoda Kylaq — the brand’s ambitious attempt to make a mark in the bustling world of small SUVs. With a style that’s undeniably Škoda, performance that’s solid, and a price that doesn’t break the bank, the Kylaq might just be the perfect match for your city adventures. But does it have enough to stand out against some of its more established rivals? Let’s dive in and see what this little SUV has to offer.

One Engine to Rule Them All (Well, Almost)

Unlike most of its competitors, the Škoda Kylaq comes with just one engine option — a 1.0L 3-cylinder petrol engine. Now, at first glance, this might seem a little too simple, especially when you have rivals like the Hyundai Venue and Tata Nexon, which offer multiple fuel options, including diesel and CNG. But Škoda seems to be banking on the idea that simplicity is the key to efficiency.

The engine might not win any races, but it’s more than enough for daily commutes and those occasional weekend road trips. It’s got the power to make city driving a breeze, though you might notice a bit of vibration here and there — especially when you’re revving it up. But hey, it’s a compact SUV, not a sports car, right?

A Design That’s Compact, but Doesn’t Feel Cramped

The Kylaq might be 230mm shorter than its bigger sibling, the Kushaq, but don’t let that fool you. This SUV punches way above its weight in terms of space. The interior is surprisingly roomy for its size, with a wheelbase of 2.6 meters that helps create more legroom for passengers, especially in the back. Whether you’re driving or just chilling as a passenger, there’s enough room to keep everyone comfortable without feeling cramped.

On the outside, Škoda has really outdone itself with the design. The glossy grille, sleek headlights, and the skid plate detailing give the Kylaq a tough yet sophisticated look. It’s got that rugged, outdoorsy vibe but still looks cool enough to drive around the city without feeling out of place. Of course, there are a few cost-saving measures, like unpainted bumpers, but let’s be real — it still looks pretty slick.

Interior That’s Simple, Yet Premium

Inside the Kylaq, Škoda strikes a nice balance between practicality and comfort. The dashboard is clean, with a mix of hard plastics and chrome accents, which feels pretty sturdy but not too flashy. The 8-inch digital display and 10-inch infotainment system are both easy to use and have enough modern tech to make you feel like you’re driving a more premium vehicle.

But the real surprise here is how comfortable the seats are. Even though the Kylaq is compact, Škoda hasn’t skimped on comfort. The rear seats are spacious enough for adults, and you get features like adjustable headrests and a center armrest with cup holders. Plus, the boot space is more than generous for a sub-4-meter SUV, and with the 60/40 split rear seats, you’ve got plenty of room to haul all your stuff.

Performance: Not a Speed Demon, But Practical Enough

So, how does the Škoda Kylaq actually drive? Well, it’s not going to win any races at the track, but it’s a solid performer for everyday use. The 1.0L 3-cylinder engine is a bit on the smaller side, but it gets the job done. It’s tuned more for comfort than for outright performance, so expect a smooth ride over rough roads. The suspension is softened just enough to absorb bumps without making you feel like you’re floating, and the steering is light, making it easy to handle in tight city traffic.

When it comes to fuel economy, the Kylaq does a good job. It’s not going to break any records, but it’s efficient enough for city commutes and highway drives. Plus, the ground clearance of 189mm means it can handle the occasional off-road trail or speed bump without breaking a sweat.

Safety: A Solid Set of Features

Safety is always a big deal when choosing a car, and the Škoda Kylaq doesn’t disappoint here either. With six airbags, a rigid body structure, and features like seatbelt reminders, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and anti-lock brakes, you’re pretty well covered. The only thing I wish they’d added is a 360-degree parking camera, which could’ve helped with tight spots. But overall, the Kylaq’s safety features are solid.

Pricing: Value for Money

One of the biggest selling points of the Škoda Kylaq is its price. Starting at ₹7.89 lakhs (ex-showroom), this compact SUV offers excellent value for money. It’s priced competitively against rivals like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Brezza, but it has that Škoda premium feel that you don’t always get in this price range.

For those looking to spend a little more, the higher trims, which can go up to ₹16 lakhs, still offer great value. And with a generous boot space of 446 liters, you’ve got plenty of room for all your gear. Whether it’s a family trip or a solo weekend getaway, the Kylaq can handle it all.

The Competition: Where Does the Kylaq Fit In?

So, where does the Škoda Kylaq stack up against its competitors? It’s up against some heavy hitters like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet, but it has its own unique charm. While it doesn’t offer a diesel or CNG option like some of its rivals, the Kylaq’s emphasis on comfort, quality, and style gives it a distinctive edge.

Škoda is aiming to sell between 3,000 to 4,000 units per month — a goal that seems pretty achievable given the Kylaq’s appeal. It’s the kind of car that could attract buyers looking for something a bit different in the crowded compact SUV space.

Final Thoughts: Is the Kylaq the Right Choice for You?

In the end, the Škoda Kylaq is a smart, stylish, and practical compact SUV that does everything you need without any unnecessary fuss. It’s not the fastest, nor does it offer a wide range of engine options, but it more than makes up for it with its refined design, comfortable ride, and affordable pricing.

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that strikes a good balance between value for money, style, and performance, the Kylaq could be the one for you. It might not have the diesel variant you were hoping for, but it’s certainly a car that’s easy to fall in love with — especially if you value quality, comfort, and practicality over having all the options under the sun.