Skoda Kylaq Full Review Design, Safety, Engine, Mileage & Features

Today, let’s discuss the highly anticipated Skoda Kylaq, the latest addition to Skoda’s lineup. In general, Skoda’s market presence in India is quite average compared to competitors like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai. The brand has fewer models in its product range, which contributes to lower sales figures. However, the new Skoda Kylaq, often dubbed the “little brother” of the Skoda Kushaq, is expected to make a significant impact in the Indian market. Positioned as an entry-level SUV, it aims to increase sales for Skoda.

When examining its competitors, the Kylaq will go up against models such as the Tata Nexon, Mahindra 3XO, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger. Known for robust engines and excellent build quality, Skoda, originally from Mladá Boleslav, Czech Republic, brings European standards to the Indian market.

Design & Dimensions: Compact, Stylish & Urban-Ready

The Skoda Kylaq is a compact SUV that carries forward Skoda’s unmistakable European design DNA in a smaller, city-friendly footprint. Although it takes heavy inspiration from its elder sibling—the Skoda Kushaq—the Kylaq gets a sportier, more youthful character, aimed at first-time SUV buyers and young urban families.

This new SUV blends function with flair, making it perfect for both everyday commutes and weekend getaways.

Exterior Design Highlights:

LED Headlamps with DRLs (Variant Dependent): The sharp headlight units give the Kylaq a bold front profile while offering better visibility and safety during low-light drives.
Crystalline Skoda Grille with Chrome Surrounds: The signature butterfly grille with thick chrome accents enhances the car’s premium appeal, giving it a powerful stance.
Sculpted Bonnet & Strong Shoulder Line: Well-defined body contours add a sense of robustness and character, often associated with larger SUVs.
Sporty Dual-Tone Alloy Wheels: Depending on the variant, the Kylaq is expected to offer 15- to 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, which will add both visual appeal and grip on the road.
Tail-lamp Design Inspired by Kushaq: The split tail-lamp design, along with a chunky rear bumper, gives the Kylaq a wider look and a well-finished rear profile.
Functional Roof Rails & Faux Skid Plates: These elements enhance the SUV’s character and provide visual cues of off-road capability, even if the vehicle is mostly city-bound.

Expected Dimensions:

While official numbers will be confirmed at launch, the Skoda Kylaq is likely to sit just below the 4-meter mark, similar to rivals like the Tata Nexon and Mahindra 3XO. This compact size ensures:

Easy maneuverability on tight city roads and parking spots
Lower taxation under Indian sub-4m vehicle norms (on petrol engines)
Spacious cabin, thanks to smart interior packaging by Skoda

City-Ready but SUV-Tough

Overall, the Skoda Kylaq delivers a high-riding stance with compact dimensions, making it a perfect urban SUV. Whether you’re navigating crowded streets or planning a weekend getaway, the Kylaq’s design promises confidence, comfort, and road presence.

Engine & Performance: Peppy Yet Efficient

The Skoda Kylaq may be compact in size, but it is expected to deliver strong performance and driving excitement—hallmarks of Skoda’s engineering. Although official specifications are yet to be released, industry insiders and past trends suggest that the Kylaq will be powered by the same 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine that currently powers the Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.

This engine setup is known for its smooth power delivery, fun-to-drive character, and surprising highway capability, all while being fuel-efficient and BS6 Phase 2 compliant.

Engine Specifications:

Engine Type	Displacement	Power Output	Torque	Transmission Options
1.0L TSI Petrol	999 cc	~115 PS	~178 Nm	6-speed Manual / 6-speed AT

Performance Characteristics:

Turbocharged Punch: The 1.0L TSI is a 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that delivers brisk acceleration in city traffic and holds strong performance even on highways. The turbo ensures low-end torque is available early in the rev band, reducing the need for frequent downshifts.
Smooth Gearboxes: Buyers will likely get to choose between a 6-speed manual transmission for those who enjoy engaging drives, or a 6-speed torque-converter automatic for more relaxed city commuting.
Refinement & NVH: Skoda has always maintained high standards of refinement, and this engine is expected to offer low noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels. Cabin insulation is likely to be excellent, enhancing overall comfort.
Highway Cruising: With a strong mid-range, the Kylaq should be more than capable of maintaining triple-digit speeds comfortably, making it a great companion for long-distance travel.
Fuel Efficiency: While ARAI figures are yet to be confirmed, the Kylaq should deliver between 17–19 km/l, depending on the variant and driving style, thanks to its lightweight chassis and efficient TSI motor.

Real-World Use

Whether you’re navigating city traffic, overtaking on highways, or climbing steep inclines in the ghats, the Kylaq’s engine is expected to offer:

Responsive throttle input
Linear acceleration
Less turbo lag than traditional petrols
Great fuel economy without sacrificing performance

This balance of power and practicality makes the Skoda Kylaq an excellent option for both urban dwellers and long-distance travelers.

Mileage Expectations: Balanced Efficiency with Performance

One of the biggest questions on every buyer’s mind—especially in India—is “Kitna deti hai?” With fuel prices constantly rising, mileage is a critical factor. Thankfully, the Skoda Kylaq is expected to strike a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, thanks to its modern 1.0L TSI turbocharged petrol engine.

Estimated Fuel Efficiency

Although Skoda has not officially announced the ARAI-certified mileage figures yet, based on the performance of similar Skoda and Volkswagen cars with the same engine (like the Kushaq and Taigun), we can expect the following:

Driving Condition	Estimated Mileage
City Driving	13 – 15 km/l
Highway Runs	17 – 19 km/l

These figures are based on standard driving scenarios and can vary slightly depending on factors such as:

Driving style (aggressive vs. light-footed)
Traffic conditions
Tyre pressure and vehicle load
Air conditioner usage
Transmission type (Manual vs. Automatic)

Real-World Insights

In urban traffic, where frequent braking and idling are common, you can expect mileage closer to the 13 km/l mark, especially with the automatic variant.
On open highways, the Kylaq’s turbo engine shines. With consistent speeds and light throttle use, drivers may see mileage close to 19 km/l.
Thanks to the start-stop system, smart engine tuning, and lighter platform**, the Kylaq is likely to be more fuel-efficient than older Skoda models.

Pro Tip

To get the best mileage out of your Skoda Kylaq:

Keep your tyre pressure at the recommended level
Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking
Use cruise control on highways when available
Limit idling time, especially with the A/C on

Safety Features: Skoda’s Core Strength

Skoda has earned a reputation worldwide and especially in India, for delivering cars with exceptional build quality and top-notch safety. The upcoming Skoda Kylaq is expected to uphold that legacy, offering solid safety features even in its base variants.

Whether you’re commuting within the city, driving on highways, or heading out with your family, the Kylaq is designed to keep you safe at every turn.

Standard Safety Features (across all variants)

Dual Front Airbags
Protect the driver and front passenger during collisions. Airbags are now a must-have, and Skoda includes them as standard.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Ensures better control during emergency braking. ABS prevents wheel lock-up, while EBD distributes braking force intelligently across all wheels.
ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
Especially useful during sharp turns or slippery roads, ESC helps the driver maintain control by reducing engine power or applying brakes to individual wheels.
Hill-Hold Control (in higher variants)
Prevents the car from rolling backward on inclines. This is particularly helpful in city traffic or while driving in hilly regions.
Rear Parking Sensors + Camera
Makes reversing safer and more convenient by alerting the driver of obstacles behind the vehicle. A rear-view camera adds better visibility in tight spots.
ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
International standard mounts that allow you to securely attach child safety seats. A crucial feature for families with young children.

Expected Advanced Safety Features (in top variants)

Skoda is also expected to offer additional safety tech in the top-spec versions of the Kylaq, in line with its premium positioning and commitment to passenger protection:

Side and Curtain Airbags (total up to 6 airbags)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Auto-dimming Inside Rear View Mirror (IRVM)
Day/Night Adjustable ORVMs with Turn Indicators
High-Speed Warning Alerts
Front Seatbelt Reminder with Pretensioners & Load Limiters

5-Star Safety Goals

Skoda has a history of scoring 5-star safety ratings in crash tests (like the Kushaq under Global NCAP’s new protocol), and it’s expected that the Kylaq will be engineered with similar goals in mind. The use of high-tensile steel, rigid body structure, and reinforced crumple zones makes it a strong contender for high safety scores.

Why Safety Matters

In a market where many entry-level SUVs skimp on safety to cut costs, Skoda stands out by prioritizing protection. With safety features standard across all trims, the Kylaq becomes a practical and responsible choice for:

Family buyers
First-time car owners
Young professionals
City commuters who value peace of mind

Interior & Features: Premium Feel in a Compact Package

Step inside the Skoda Kylaq, and you’ll immediately notice that it doesn’t feel like a budget SUV. Even though it’s positioned as an entry-level model below the Kushaq, Skoda hasn’t cut corners when it comes to quality and comfort.

In fact, the fit-and-finish, attention to detail, and the overall cabin experience are expected to set a new benchmark in the sub-4-meter SUV category.

Expected Cabin Highlights

Let’s take a look at what you can expect inside the Kylaq:

Infotainment & Connectivity

8- or 10-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
The center of the dashboard will likely feature a responsive touchscreen unit with sharp graphics and a user-friendly interface.
Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
No need for cables—just hop in and your smartphone connects wirelessly. Access music, maps, and messages easily on the go.
Fully Digital Instrument Cluster
Replacing traditional dials, this modern digital display will show real-time vehicle info like speed, fuel economy, and navigation prompts in a stylish way.

Comfort & Convenience

Premium Fabric Upholstery
The seats will be finished in high-quality fabric that looks classy and feels comfortable, even on long drives. Top variants may get a textured or dual-tone finish.
Push Start/Stop Button
A modern convenience feature—no need to pull out the keys every time.
Auto Climate Control
Set your preferred temperature once and let the system take care of the rest. It adjusts the cooling automatically depending on the cabin conditions.
Steering-Mounted Controls
Access music, calls, and voice commands without taking your hands off the wheel. It adds both convenience and safety.
Rear AC Vents
Rear passengers will stay cool too, thanks to dedicated AC vents for the back row—a feature not available in many budget SUVs.

Design & Ambience

Dual-Tone Cabin Layout
Expect a tasteful blend of light and dark shades on the dashboard, seats, and door pads. It adds a premium touch and breaks the monotony.
Silver or Piano Black Inserts
Skoda may use chrome, piano black, or brushed silver accents to uplift the dashboard and air vent surrounds.
Plenty of Storage Spaces
Cup holders, door pockets, center armrest storage, and a cooled glovebox (possibly in higher trims) ensure practical use of space.

Interior Space & Layout

The Kylaq is designed to be compact on the outside but spacious on the inside. With smart seat positioning, ample headroom, and decent legroom, it should comfortably accommodate four adults and a child. The boot space is expected to be practical for daily use and weekend luggage.

Built for Urban Comfort

Whether you’re driving solo to work, heading out for a weekend with friends, or dropping the kids at school, the Skoda Kylaq offers a refined and comfortable cabin experience for every situation. It’s compact enough to zip through city traffic but stylish and feature-packed enough to stand out wherever it goes.

Connectivity & Convenience – Smart Features for the Modern Driver

Skoda is steadily aligning its newer vehicles with modern tech trends, and the Kylaq is expected to follow suit. Even though it’s a compact SUV, it aims to deliver a premium ownership experience, especially in terms of digital convenience and in-cabin tech.

Let’s break down the key connectivity and convenience features that the Skoda Kylaq is likely to offer:

USB Type-C Charging Ports

Say goodbye to old-school USB-A ports—Skoda is expected to equip the Kylaq with USB Type-C ports, both at the front and rear.

Faster Charging: Type-C ports offer quicker charging for compatible devices like smartphones, tablets, and even some laptops.
Universal Compatibility: Most modern gadgets now support USB-C, so you won’t need adapters or multiple cables.

Ideal for both the driver and passengers who rely heavily on their devices during travel.

Smartphone Connectivity via MySkoda App

Skoda offers a MySkoda app across its newer range, and the Kylaq is expected to support this as well. It allows owners to stay connected with their vehicle at all times through their smartphones.

With the MySkoda App, you can:

View service history and maintenance schedules
Track your car’s location in real-time
Access digital documents like RC and insurance
Book service appointments
Receive alerts and reminders for maintenance

It’s like having your car’s brain in your pocket—perfect for keeping track of everything without stress.

Connected Car Technology (Top Variants)

Skoda may introduce connected car technology in the higher variants of the Kylaq, making it one of the few entry-level SUVs to offer this advanced feature.

Here’s what connected car tech might include:

Live Vehicle Tracking
Geofencing Alerts (get notified if your car leaves a pre-set boundary)
Trip History Reports
Speed Alerts (ideal for parents handing over the car to younger drivers)
Remote Diagnostics & Over-the-Air Updates

This would make the Kylaq smarter, safer, and more user-friendly in the long run.

Remote Climate Control & Lock/Unlock Features

With app-based connectivity and connected car features, you can expect remote operations like:

Start the AC remotely to cool the cabin before entering—perfect for hot Indian summers.
Lock/Unlock the doors from your phone, helpful if you forgot to do it or need to give someone access.
Horn & Light Flash Control, making it easier to locate your car in crowded parking lots.

These small yet smart features save time and offer peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on Connectivity

Even though the Skoda Kylaq will be Skoda’s most affordable SUV offering in India, the expected inclusion of these smart features shows the brand’s focus on delivering a tech-savvy experience, one that’s more common in premium vehicles.

It blends everyday practicality with modern digital convenience, making it ideal for young buyers and tech-conscious families a like.

Skoda Kylaq Variant-Wise Pricing (Ex-Showroom India)

Variant	Transmission	Price (₹)
Classic	Manual	8.25 lakh
Signature	Manual	9.85 lakh
Signature	Automatic	10.95 lakh
Signature Plus	Manual	11.25 lakh
Signature Plus	Automatic	12.35 lakh
Prestige	Manual	12.89 lakh
Prestige	Automatic	13.99 lakh

Variant Highlights

1. Classic (₹8.25 lakh)

Engine & Transmission: 1.0L TSI petrol, 6-speed manual
Key Features:
- LED headlights and tail-lights
- 16-inch steel wheels with covers
- 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC
- Manual AC, rear parking sensors
- 3.5-inch MID, fabric seats

2. Signature (₹9.85 lakh – Manual / ₹10.95 lakh – Automatic)

Additional Features over Classic:
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Rear AC vents, cooled glovebox
- Steering-mounted controls

3. Signature Plus (₹11.25 lakh – Manual / ₹12.35 lakh – Automatic)

Additional Features over Signature:
- 10-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- 8-inch digital instrument cluster
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Auto AC, hill-hold assist
- Rearview camera, power-folding ORVMs

4. Prestige (₹12.89 lakh – Manual / ₹13.99 lakh – Automatic)

Top-Spec Features:
- 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels
- LED projector headlamps with cornering function
- Electric sunroof, ambient lighting
- 6-way electrically adjustable ventilated front seats
- Wireless phone charger, auto-dimming IRVM
- Leatherette upholstery, paddle shifters (AT only)

Colour Options

The Kylaq is available in seven exterior colours:

Tornado Red
Brilliant Silver
Candy White
Carbon Steel
Lava Blue
Deep Black
Olive Gold (₹9,000 extra for some variants)

Final Verdict: Should You Consider the Skoda Kylaq?

The Skoda Kylaq stands out as a well-rounded package in the competitive sub-4m SUV segment. It brings together a blend of European design sophistication, solid build quality, and refined turbocharged performance all while maintaining a price tag that offers excellent value for money.

What makes the Kylaq particularly appealing is its focus on safety, comfort, and technology. Whether it’s the 6-airbag setup, the premium cabin finish, or features like the 10-inch infotainment system and digital instrument cluster, Skoda has made sure the Kylaq feels a class above.

For buyers looking for something beyond the ordinary, who want a stylish, safe, and fun-to-drive compact SUV backed by a globally recognized brand, the Kylaq is a compelling choice. It’s not just about commuting; it’s about enjoying every drive with confidence and flair.

So if you’re in the market for a premium compact SUV that doesn’t compromise on performance or safety, the Skoda Kylaq deserves a serious look.