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Dear Autocar India Team, I’m planning to buy a mid-size SUV for my father, who is currently using a Hyundai Elite i20. After shortlisting options, I am considering the Skoda Kylaq Classic Plus variant. Recently, I watched your video/article mentioning that Skoda has upgraded the AC compressor on the Skoda Kushaq to improve cooling performance. I would like to know: Has this upgraded AC compressor also been introduced on the Skoda Kylaq (specifically the Classic Plus variant), or is it exclusive to the updated Kushaq? There are also discussions about Skoda introducing a new 8-speed automatic gearbox. Is Skoda planning to offer this 8-speed automatic on the Kylaq in the near future, or will it continue with the existing 6-speed automatic? Your clarification will greatly help me make an informed purchase decision. Thank you for your time and continued insightful automotive coverage.

Asked by: Raajesh
The update to the AC has only been implemented on the Kushaq, as it was necessary and a weak point. The Kylaq already has good AC performance and a variable geometry compressor. As for the gearbox, there is no confirmation on a new gearbox for the Kylaq, as the 6-speed torque converter suits the engine well.  
Skoda Kushaq

Skoda Kushaq

Answered by
AI
Autocar India team29 Jan' 26

Latest questions

Asked by: Raajesh

Dear Autocar India Team, I’m planning to buy a mid-size SUV for my father, who is currently using a Hyundai Elite i20. After shortlisting options, I am considering the Skoda Kylaq Classic Plus variant. Recently, I watched your video/article mentioning that Skoda has upgraded the AC compressor on the Skoda Kushaq to improve cooling performance. I would like to know: Has this upgraded AC compressor also been introduced on the Skoda Kylaq (specifically the Classic Plus variant), or is it exclusive to the updated Kushaq? There are also discussions about Skoda introducing a new 8-speed automatic gearbox. Is Skoda planning to offer this 8-speed automatic on the Kylaq in the near future, or will it continue with the existing 6-speed automatic? Your clarification will greatly help me make an informed purchase decision. Thank you for your time and continued insightful automotive coverage.

The update to the AC has only been implemented on the Kushaq, as it was necessary and a weak point. The Kylaq already has good AC performance and a variable geometry compressor. As for the gearbox, there is no confirmation on a new gearbox for the Kylaq, as the 6-speed torque converter suits the engine well.
AI
Autocar India team
29 Jan' 26
Asked by: Ajinkya Manoj Sonar

Hi Team, I am planning to buy a 7-seater car with all the basic required features, great mileage, and easy maintenance. I am confused between the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Petrol Smart Hybrid Manual and the Kia Carens Premium Optional Diesel Manual. Please advise which one I should pick.

The Kia Carens is a better pick between the two options you are considering. The Carens is a more modern and more spacious MPV compared to the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. It also has a more powerful and efficient 116hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine option.The Kia Carens Premium (O) diesel comes with all necessary features like 6 airbags, TPMS, an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a height-adjustable driver's seat and more. The Kia Carens Premium (O) diesel manual is priced at Rs 12.77 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
AI
Autocar India team
29 Jan' 26
Asked by: Pradipta Sinha

I request your help in zeroing in on the SUV I plan to purchase. I currently own a KUV that has repeatedly faced rust issues on all four doors. My first preference is the Innova Crysta, but I am apprehensive that if the company discontinues it, servicing could become expensive and resale value limited. My next preference is the XUV 7XO, but I’m concerned about rust issues. For the Tata Safari, I feel the diesel engine is very noisy and the sound percolates into the cabin. My overall requirements are a spacious third row, strong road presence, good driving and ride comfort, and good mileage, all within a budget of ₹25–27 lakh. Can you please suggest an SUV?

The Toyota Innova Crysta will be discontinued when the CAFE 3 emissions norms come around in 2027. But it should not be a cause for concern in terms of maintenance. As the Toyota Fortuner and Hilux - which share the same IMV platform and diesel engine - are expected to continue on. Thus parts availability will not be an issue and, as ever, Toyota's reputation for reliability and service precedes it. If you are still concerned, however, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is the next best option, and a much better value than the Innova Crysta, if not quite as spacious. The company has raised its production standards considerably since the days of the KUV100, so rust is unlikely to be an issue.
AI
Autocar India team
29 Jan' 26
Asked by: Karthik G

Hi Team, we are a family of five planning to buy a new car with a maximum on-road budget of ₹18 lakh. We are considering the 2026 Kia Seltos 1.5 NA petrol manual HTK (O), while a dealer has also offered the 2024 Hyundai Creta 1.5 NA petrol manual SX (O) at ₹18.5 lakh on-road. Could you please advise on the realistic current market or best offer on-road price for the 2024 Creta SX (O), and help us choose between the Creta SX (O) and Seltos HTK (O) based on overall value, features, space, reliability, and running costs?

The 2024 Hyundai Creta SX (O) makes more sense. Both SUVs are mechanically identical and are powered by the same 115hp, 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK (O) is also a good option, since it's a newer model and has slightly more interior space. But it is a lower variant and hence misses out on some features compared to the Creta SX (O). It includes dual-zone auto climate control, ambient lighting, 360-degree camera, auto-dimming IRVM, ventilated front seats and more.
AI
Autocar India team
29 Jan' 26
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