Skoda is all set to officially enter the sub-4-metre segment with the unveiling of the Kylaq on November 6. This made-in-India compact SUV is poised to be the Czech Republic automaker’s most significant product in India. Before its official debut, we had the opportunity to drive a camouflaged pre-production version of the Kylaq under various driving conditions. Here are our first impressions of the compact SUV.
The Kylaq plays an important role in Skoda’s 2.5 India strategy. It is the third vehicle based on the MQB A0-IN platform, after the Kushaq and the Slavia. This is the first time Skoda will enter the sub-4-metre category in the Indian market. Emphasizing the SUV’s significance, it will be produced at the Chakan facility in Pune, with an anticipated annual output of 50,000 to 70,000 units. Skoda aims to make Kylaq a force to reckon with in the compact SUV segment that accounts for nearly 30 per cent of sales in India. The Kylaq is set to compete with the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and the Mahindra 3X0.
The Kylaq is equipped with a 1-litre TSI engine, delivering an output of 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque, like the Kushaq and the Slavia. At the Coimbatore Autosports and Transport Trust (CoASTT) race track, we tested the 6-speed manual version, undertaking challenges like slalom, moose, and brake tests from 80 kmph to a complete stop. The Moose test first demonstrated the Kylaq’s stability, as it remained firmly on the tarmac while weaving through cones.
The subsequent brake test revealed that with properly calibrated front disc and rear drum brakes, the vehicle stops promptly, reducing accident risks. The Kylaq confirmed its reliability when we applied the brakes from 80 kmph to a halt. It was most impressive during the slalom, nimbly zigzagging through the cones.
The track offered a perfect opportunity to push the Kylaq to its limits. Accelerating and upshifting were seamless; the gears engaged smoothly, and the 3-cylinder engine provided substantial power in the mid-range. Notably, the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels remained low, even under aggressive driving. With taller gear ratios, we could comfortably drive in third gear across the entire track. Additionally, the Kylaq features a 6-speed automatic torque converter, which transitions gears fluidly tackling the stop-and-go nature of city traffic.
The track demonstrated the Kylaq’s poise and stability as it effortlessly tackled sharp, high-speed corners. This new SUV is akin to an immovable object that refuses to falter and stays firmly planted on the tarmac. The Kylaq was also tested on a narrow go-kart circuit, where it asserted its dominance in manoeuvrability and turning radius. Despite its large size, it navigates the track with the agility of a smaller car. A key feature is the lightweight steering wheel, which provides just enough feedback to navigate tight corners with ease. In everyday conditions, parking the SUV should be a simple task.
The Kylaq provides a balanced ride quality, although it feels slightly softer compared to the Kushaq. Sitting on the rear bench while driving over gravel terrain, the suspension effectively neutralized the rough conditions and maintained stability. Skoda has achieved a precise suspension setup that avoids the wallowing effect often felt with softer suspensions.
Skoda has straightforwardly announced that the Kylaq will be competitively priced, leveraging the made-in-India platform and the 1-litre turbo petrol engine. With competitors like the Brezza and Nexon priced at Rs 8.34 lakh and Rs 8 lakh respectively, the Kylaq is anticipated to be priced under the Rs 10 lakh mark. Skoda is also intent on altering the perception that its cars are costly to maintain and service. The SUV is set to be officially unveiled on November 6 and is expected to arrive in showrooms in early 2025.
