Skoda Kylaq pros and cons: 3 reasons to buy, 2 to skip

The Skoda Kylaq was launched in November 2024 as the Czech carmaker’s most affordable model. It rivals compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Kia Syros, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza. If you’re planning to buy a compact SUV, here are three reasons why the Kylaq should be at the top of your list, and two areas where Skoda’s competitors pull ahead.

Competitive pricing for entry level variants

Starting price is Rs 8.25 lakh

Prices for the Kylaq start at Rs 8.25 lakh, which falls right in line with rivals. The Nexon, Sonet, XUV 3XO and Venue are slightly more affordable, but the Kylaq undercuts the Brezza by Rs 44,000 and the Syros by a whopping Rs 1.25 lakh.

Robust build, safety features, and BNCAP rating

Loads of safety equipment from base trim onwards

If safety is a major consideration for you, the Kylaq does very well on this front. The overall build quality feels tough, and right from the base trim, the Kylaq is equipped with 6 airbags, traction control, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, overspeed alerts, brake assist, rear parking sensors, electronic differential lock, and more.

Higher variants of the Kylaq also get a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill-hold control, and rearview camera. Additionally, the Kylaq holds a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating.

Most fun to drive in its segment

Tight chassis and suspension tuning

In our review of the Kylaq, we noted that the SUV’s stiff chassis and suspension setup make for an engaging driving experience. Despite its healthy 189mm ground clearance, the Kylaq is eager to dive into corners, body roll is well-restricted, and overall grip levels are excellent.

Now, let’s take a look at some of the most notable weaknesses of the Skoda Kylaq.

Turbo lag at low revs

May require extra downshifts in moving traffic

The Kylaq is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine developing 115hp and 178Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter auto gearbox. While this output is decent by segment standards, the Kylaq does suffer from turbo lag below the 2,000rpm mark, which makes low-speed drivability a bit trickier than some of its rivals.

Refinement not up to par

Cabin insulation can’t keep out the 3-cylinder thrum very effectively

Due to its 3-cylinder engine, the Kylaq’s overall refinement falls a bit short. Vibrations seep into the cabin at idle, and the motor is quite audible throughout the rev range. The Kylaq doesn’t offer the option of a more refined 4-cylinder petrol engine like the Sonet or Venue either, so if NVH levels are a dealbreaker for you, one of those would be a better choice.

All prices are ex-showroom, India.

Also see:

Skoda Kylaq vs Mahindra XUV 3XO comparison

Skoda Kylaq video review