Skoda Kylaq 2025: In the ever-evolving landscape of compact SUVs, Skoda’s latest offering stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality. The 2025 Skoda Kylaq marks the Czech automaker’s first foray into India’s highly competitive sub-4-meter SUV segment, bringing with it the perfect blend of European engineering and Indian sensibilities.
This article explores how the Kylaq is poised to disrupt the market with its striking design, powerful performance, and thoughtful features.
Skoda Kylaq 2025 Origin Story: From Sanskrit to the Streets
The Kylaq’s journey began with its very name—derived from the Sanskrit word for “crystal,” reflecting both pristine qualities and drawing inspiration from Mount Kailash. This naming approach continues Skoda’s tradition of Sanskrit-inspired SUV nomenclature, following the footsteps of the larger Kushaq (meaning “Emperor”). What makes the Kylaq’s name particularly special is that it was chosen through a nationwide campaign involving thousands of Indian participants, creating a unique connection
with its future drivers even before its launch.
The winner of this naming contest received a significant prize: becoming the first owner of the Skoda Kylaq when it hit roads in 2025.
This approach to branding demonstrates Skoda’s commitment to engaging with the Indian market on a deeper level, recognizing the importance of cultural connections in product development.
Design Philosophy: Modern Solid Language
The Kylaq represents a milestone in Skoda’s design evolution as the first model in India to adopt elements of the brand’s new “Modern Solid” design language.
The front fascia features a distinctive shiny black grille with 3D ribs, replacing the familiar Skoda radiator grille. This is complemented by a bold lower front spoiler in aluminum optics and slim LED headlights that reinterpret the typical four-eye Skoda SUV face.
The side profile showcases clean, modern lines, robust cladding around the wheel arches and sills, and high ground clearance, giving it a confident SUV stance despite its compact dimensions.
A hexagon pattern along the side and rear further enhances its distinctive design. The Kylaq is available in five paint finishes, with the striking Olive Gold making its debut exclusively for this model.
Dimensions and Practicality
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1783 mm |
| Height | 1619 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2566 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 189 mm |
| Boot Space | 446 liters (expandable to 1,265 liters) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 liters |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
Despite its compact exterior dimensions (necessary to qualify for India’s sub-4-meter tax benefits), the Kylaq offers impressive interior space. The boot capacity of 446 liters is claimed to be best-in-class, expanding to 1,265 liters with the rear seats folded down. This practical approach to space management makes the Kylaq suitable for both urban commutes and weekend getaways.
Powertrain and Performance
The Kylaq comes equipped with Skoda’s proven 1.0-liter TSI turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 85 kW (114 bhp) of power and 178 Nm of torque. This engine can be paired with either:
A six-speed manual transmission
A six-speed torque converter automatic with paddle shifters and sport mode
The performance-oriented powertrain offers a compelling balance between spirited driving and fuel efficiency. According to ARAI testing, the Kylaq delivers a fuel economy of 19.05 to 19.68 kmpl, though real-world testing suggests actual figures range between 17.25 to 18.16 kmpl in mixed driving conditions. City driving with the automatic transmission yields around 8.9 kmpl, while highway driving improves to approximately 12.4 kmpl.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Kylaq, and you’re greeted by a cabin that marries practicality with premium touches. The interior features:
8-inch digital instrument cluster
10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Electrically adjustable, ventilated front seats
Ambient lighting creating a cozy atmosphere
Auto Climatronic air conditioning
Wireless phone charger
Sunroof (available in select variants)
Sustainable materials throughout the cabin
The interior design reflects Skoda’s “Simply Clever” philosophy with thoughtful touches like a ticket holder on the windscreen, dedicated phone pockets on seatbacks, and door reflectors.
These small but meaningful additions enhance the everyday usability of the vehicle.
Safety Features: Protection at Every Turn
Safety is a cornerstone of the Kylaq’s design, with over 25 active and passive safety features standard across all variants. These include:
Six airbags
Multi-Collision Brake
Roll Over Protection
Motor Slip Regulation
Electronic Differential Lock
XDS+ (extended electronic differential lock)
Anti-lock Braking System
Electronic Brake Force Distribution
Electronic Stability Control
Higher variants are equipped with over 35 safety features, adding elements like:
Cornering lights
Automatic headlights and wipers
Hill Hold Control
Tire pressure monitoring
This comprehensive safety suite has earned the Kylaq a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, making it one of the safest cars in its segment.
Market Positioning and Pricing
The Kylaq entered the Indian market with a competitive pricing strategy. The base model was launched at ₹7.89 lakh (ex-showroom), undercutting key rivals like the Hyundai Venue (₹7.94 lakh), Kia Sonet (₹7.99 lakh), and Tata Nexon (₹7.99 lakh).
Current pricing (as of May 2025) has been revised across variants:
Base variants: Price increased by up to ₹36,000
Higher variants: Price reduced by up to ₹46,000
The full price range now spans from ₹8.25 lakh for the base Classic variant to ₹13.99 lakh for the top-end Prestige AT model (all prices ex-showroom).
Key Competitors in the Segment
The Kylaq faces stiff competition in India’s crowded sub-compact SUV segment, going up against established players such as:
Tata Nexon
Hyundai Venue
Kia Sonet
Maruti Suzuki Brezza
Mahindra XUV 3XO
Nissan Magnite
Renault Kiger
Toyota Taisor
Maruti Fronx
What sets the Kylaq apart in this competitive landscape is its European engineering, robust build quality, spirited turbocharged engine, and comprehensive safety features—all hallmarks of the Skoda brand.
The Kylaq’s Place in Skoda’s India Strategy
The Kylaq represents Skoda’s third India-specific product developed under its India 2.0 project, following the successful launches of the Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan.
Built on the localized MQB-A0-IN platform, the Kylaq benefits from high levels of local content, enabling competitive pricing while maintaining Skoda’s quality standards.
This strategic entry into the volume-heavy sub-4-meter segment is crucial for Skoda’s ambitions in India, as this category accounts for nearly 50% of the Indian car market. The Kylaq joins Skoda’s SUV lineup in India alongside the larger Kushaq and the premium Kodiaq.
Owner Experiences and Market Reception
Early owner reviews highlight several strengths of the Kylaq:
Build quality: Owners consistently praise the solid European build quality that feels substantial compared to some competitors
Engine performance: The 1.0 TSI engine receives accolades for its responsive nature and fun-to-drive character
Features: The comprehensive feature list, particularly in higher variants, impresses buyers looking for premium touches
Practicality: The spacious boot and clever interior storage solutions enhance everyday usability
Some criticisms include:
Rear seat space that could be more generous
Relatively thirsty fuel consumption in heavy city traffic
Minor issues like camera quality and noisy seat ventilation blowers
Future Outlook
The Kylaq has shown promising market performance, with 5,364 units sold in April 2025, representing a 1% month-on-month growth.
As Skoda continues to expand its service network and build brand trust in India, the Kylaq is well-positioned to capture a significant share of the sub-4-meter SUV segment.
Recent updates include a recall alongside the Kushaq and Slavia due to a potential issue with rear seatbelts, demonstrating Skoda’s commitment to addressing safety concerns promptly.
Conclusion: A European Take on the Indian Compact SUV
The Skoda Kylaq 2025 represents a significant milestone not just for Skoda but for the compact SUV segment in India.
By combining European engineering precision with thoughtful adaptations for Indian conditions and preferences, the Kylaq offers a compelling alternative to established players.
With its distinctive design, punchy turbocharged engine, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features, the Kylaq embodies Skoda’s brand promise of offering “more car for your money.
As the Czech automaker continues to strengthen its presence in India, the Kylaq stands as a testament to Skoda’s understanding of the market and its commitment to delivering products that resonate with Indian consumers.
Whether navigating city streets or venturing beyond the urban landscape, the Skoda Kylaq 2025 proves that good things indeed come in compact packages.