Ladies and gentlemen, let’s welcome the Škoda Kylaq – India’s newest crossover SUV that thinks it can charm its way into your garage with European engineering and a name that sounds like a mix of “Kushaq” and an IKEA table. This is Škoda’s answer to the ever-growing Indian SUV segment, and it comes with more features than your last smartphone. But is it the right fit for you? Let’s find out.
Design – Baby Bentley or Budget Battle Tank?
From the front, the Kylaq greets you with a glossy black grille featuring 3D ribs, which sounds fancy but mostly just helps it look angrier in your rearview mirror. Complementing this are automatic Škoda crystalline LED projector headlamps that not only illuminate the road but also give you the feeling that your car is staring into your soul.
There’s a silver matte diffuser to add to the sporty aesthetic, though let’s be honest – no one is taking this for off-roading. The 17-inch Benny dual-tone alloy wheels ensure that even potholes give it a little respect before they attempt to ruin your day. If you’re not into alloys, don’t worry – 16-inch steel wheels are available, so your Kylaq can experience the raw, bumpy life.
Available in Olive Gold, Blue, Black, Red, White, Grey, and Silver, this car gives you color choices that range from “I’m sophisticated” to “I really don’t care, just give me the keys.”
Performance – Speed Meets Fuel Economy (Kind Of)
Under the hood, the Kylaq packs a 1.0-litre inline-3 cylinder TSI petrol engine that churns out 114 horsepower and 178 Nm of torque. That may not sound like much, but it’s enough to remind you that this is an SUV for city slickers, not drag racers.
Transmission choices include:
- 6-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission – for those who like the idea of manual but not the effort.
- 6-speed Manual Transmission – for those who believe real driving involves a clutch.
With a fuel efficiency of 19 kmpl, it’s great for your wallet, but don’t expect Ferrari-level acceleration. But hey, it gets the job done without making you feel like you’re piloting a lawnmower.
Safety – Your Mom Will Approve
Škoda isn’t playing around with safety. The Kylaq is built with hot-formed steel (because regular steel is so last decade). It also comes loaded with safety features, including: ✅ 6 airbags – because hitting things is bad, but hitting things safely is good.
✅ ABS, EBD, ESC, Traction Control – all the acronyms you need to feel safe. ✅ Electronic Differential Lock & Brake Disc Wiping – ensuring your braking experience is as smooth as your excuses for being late. ✅ Hill Hold Control – because rolling backward at a traffic light is a rookie mistake. ✅ ISO-FIX Child Seat Mounting – in case your kids need luxury too.
Interiors – Welcome to Business Class (Almost)
Step inside, and the Kylaq surprises you with a dual-tone dashboard, leatherette upholstery, and ambient lighting, making it feel like you’re in a lounge.
Front seats? Ventilated and 6-way electrically adjustable. Because your backside deserves comfort, too.
Back seats? 60/40 split folding with smartphone pockets. Because why should only the driver have storage?
The 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures you can listen to music while getting lost (even with Google Maps). And if you opt for lower trims, you get a 7-inch screen – because why should budget buyers have fun?
The 8-inch Virtual Cockpit Instrument Cluster makes you feel like a pilot, while lower trims get a 3.5-inch TFT display, which is still better than most calculators.
Oh, and did I mention the electric sunroof? It’s there, and it has anti-pinch technology – because getting your fingers caught is so last season.
Boot Space – Bring Everything (Including the Kitchen Sink)
With a 446-litre boot (expandable to 1,265 litres with folded seats), the Kylaq ensures you can pack for a road trip, a wedding, and possibly a small house shift – all at once.
For emergencies, there’s a 15-inch steel spare wheel, just in case you meet a pothole that refuses to negotiate.
Final Verdict – Should You Buy It?
If you’re looking for a stylish, feature-loaded SUV that offers a premium feel without a premium price, the Škoda Kylaq is a solid contender. It’s perfect for city driving, long road trips, and making your neighbors jealous.
But if you were expecting V8 power, off-roading abilities, or the ability to intimidate Fortuners on the highway – well, maybe keep looking.
Price range: ₹7.89 lakh to ₹14.40 lakh (ex-showroom)
Final rating: 4.5/5 – Škoda’s baby Kodiaq with a personality of its own!
