Skoda Kylaq: what to expect from the Tata Nexon rival

Skoda is all set to enter the compact SUV segment with the Kylaq, which is scheduled for a launch early next year. The Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Kia Sonet, Maruti Brezza and Hyundai Venue rival is Skoda’s smallest SUV offering yet and aims to woo a buyer who’s already spoilt for choice. Here’s what you can expect from the upcoming Skoda Kylaq.

1. Kylaq would be available only with a 115hp, 1.0-litre TSI engine
2. To be revealed on November 6; launch likely in Q1 2025

Skoda Kylaq: exterior, interior design 

While we got to test the Kylaq's pre-production version at the CoASTT race track in Coimbatore, the SUV was fully covered outside and inside. However, some elements, such as the split headlamps and squared-off tail-lights, could be made out. It gets Skoda's butterfly grille at the front and may debut the new lettermark logo on the bonnet.

The Kylaq measures 3,995mm in length and gets a 2,566mm long wheelbase, second only to the Mahindra XUV 3XO in the segment. It sits on 17-inch alloy wheels and offers an 189mm ground clearance.

Skoda Kylaq: features, safety

The Kylaq will be equipped with first-in-class electronically adjustable driver and co-driver seats, along with a ventilation function for both. While the Czech carmaker is tight-lipped about the other features, it could have a dashboard design inspired by its siblings Kushaq and Slavia and include a floating touchscreen display.

Safety features such as six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC and ISOFIX child-seat anchor points will be standard across the range.

Skoda Kylaq: powertrain

Powering the Kylaq will be the familiar 1.0 TSI engine from the Volkswagen Group. This three-cylinder, direct-injection, turbo-petrol unit makes 115hp and 178Nm and will be the solitary engine option with the SUV. It will be available with a 6-speed manual gearbox and an optional 6-speed AT.

Skoda Kylaq: launch details, expected price

Skoda is all set to reveal the production-ready Kylaq on November 6, followed by a launch in Q1 2025. As per our estimates, it is expected to carry a starting price of around Rs 8.5 lakh, going up to Rs 14.5 lakh (ex-showroom).