Skoda is finally understanding how to design products for India. Without a doubt, the Kushaq is a solid vehicle, riding on Volkswagen’s MQB-A0-IN platform, which it shares with the Volkswagen Taigun. But now, Skoda’s eye is on an even more competitive segment: the sub-4 meter SUV category.

The Kylaq is Skoda's answer to the immensely popular sub-4 meter SUVs under ₹10 lakh, like the Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet.

For years, Škoda’s strategy revolved around its well-crafted sedans, masterpieces that established its reputation for quality, durability, and a premium European touch. The Octavia and Superb were flagships in this lineup, winning fans in India for their powerful engines, sleek designs, and rich interiors. These sedans, especially the Octavia, became symbols of an affordable yet aspirational luxury, while the Superb redefined what an executive sedan could be for many.

Over time, Škoda raised the bar with premium models like the Laura and positioned the Rapid as a high-quality entry-level sedan. However, as sedans lost their allure, Indian consumers increasingly preferred SUVs for their ground clearance and versatility. Sensing this shift, Škoda pivoted with the Kushaq, a compact SUV built on the India-specific MQB-A0-IN platform. Kushaq established Škoda in the highly competitive compact SUV segment, previously dominated by brands like Hyundai and Kia.

Now, Škoda is pushing further into Indian territory with its newest experiment, the Kylaq. This sub-4 meter SUV under ₹10 lakh is designed to compete with the likes of the Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. With the Kylaq, Škoda is exploring how to bring its signature European style and engineering to a more budget-friendly, compact package—proving that it’s finally learning what Indian buyers want.

Skoda Kylaq Specifications

The Škoda Kylaq comes with a robust 1.0 TSI engine, providing a smart balance of power and efficiency. Here’s a closer look at its specifications:

Engine Type: 1.0 TSI Turbocharged, giving it the modern boost and fuel efficiency expected in a sub-4 meter SUV. Displacement: 998 cc, making it compact yet capable, ideal for city commutes as well as highway drives. Max Power: 114 bhp at 5000-5500 rpm, delivering enough punch for quick overtakes and responsive handling. Max Torque: 178 Nm at 1750-4500 rpm, which ensures strong low-end torque for smooth acceleration and hill climbs. No. of Cylinders: 3, offering a good mix of efficiency and performance. Valves Per Cylinder: 4, enhancing air intake and exhaust, contributing to better combustion and fuel economy. Transmission Type: Manual Gearbox: 6-Speed, allowing for relaxed cruising on highways with lower engine RPMs. Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), which provides good handling for urban roads and a bit of off-road capability.

Skoda Kylaq Dimensions

The Škoda Kylaq’s dimensions and capacity are designed for the Indian compact SUV segment, maximizing interior space while staying under the crucial 4-meter length. Here’s a breakdown:

Length: 3995 mm – just under 4 meters, fitting the sub-compact SUV category. Width: 1783 mm – offering a stable stance and enough shoulder room for passengers. Height: 1619 mm – providing good headroom and a commanding road view. Boot Space: 446 liters – generous cargo space for weekend luggage or shopping hauls. Seating Capacity: 5 – comfortable for a small family or group of friends. Ground Clearance (Unladen): 189 mm – high enough to handle uneven roads and speed bumps easily. Wheelbase: 2566 mm – a long enough wheelbase for improved stability and better cabin space.

These dimensions make the Kylaq spacious yet nimble, ideal for both city navigation and light off-road excursions. The compact yet roomy design is well-suited to Indian driving conditions.

The Škoda Kylaq marks a strategic step by Škoda to enter the highly competitive sub-4 meter SUV market in India. With dimensions that maximize space and agility, a turbocharged 1.0 TSI engine offering a blend of power and efficiency, and a design tailored to Indian sensibilities, the Kylaq embodies Škoda’s understanding of what Indian buyers value most in this segment. It promises to bring Škoda’s signature build quality and European style at a price point accessible to a broader audience, making it a worthy contender among popular models like the Brezza, Nexon, and Venue. This shift toward compact SUVs shows that Škoda is committed to meeting the evolving preferences of Indian drivers, paving the way for a stronger local presence.