Can Skoda’s late entrant make its mark within the hotly contested compact SUV phase?
With sub-4-metre SUVs accounting for 60 % of whole passenger car gross sales in India, each producer is vying for a share of that market. Skoda is the most recent to hitch the phase with the Kylaq, aiming to make a robust influence. The model has generated vital buzz over the previous 12 months by way of its advertising techniques, together with a naming contest and periodic teasers. We even had the possibility to check a camouflaged pre-production mannequin on a race observe. Nevertheless, the actual spotlight is its aggressive introductory value of Rs 7.89 lakh, introduced forward of the complete vary pricing. However the query stays: Can the Kylaq tackle well-established rivals?
Skoda Kylaq design
Takes design cues from Skoda’s newest EVs.
The Kylaq incorporates Skoda’s newest design language, first seen within the firm’s worldwide EVs. It sports activities a cut up headlamp setup with smooth daytime operating lamps built-in into the signature blacked-out Skoda grille. The upper placement of the grille and a flatter bonnet lend it a daring SUV-like stance, distinguishing it from the Kushaq. Rugged components similar to a matte black panel across the air dam and a silver fake skid plate additional improve its persona.
The fashionable 17-inch alloy wheels are well-proportioned, whereas fake roof rails add character to the in any other case minimalist aspect profile. The rear, although filled with design components like a chiselled tailgate, black applique with ‘Skoda’ lettering and chunky plastic cladding, options tail-lamps that seem comparatively small.
The roof rails add character however will not be meant to hold weight.
Constructed on the MQB A0 IN platform, the Kylaq manages to stay below 4 metres with out trying like a compelled compromise. Regardless of a shorter wheelbase than the Kushaq (diminished by 85mm to 2,566mm), it’s 23mm wider and 7mm taller. Impressively, it boasts the second-largest wheelbase within the phase and a floor clearance of 189mm, reinforcing its SUV credentials. Impressively, the Kylaq has been awarded a strong 5 stars by BNCAP in crash exams.
Skoda Kylaq inside
Whereas the outside differentiates itself, the inside carefully resembles the Kushaq – providing a clear, uncluttered design and a strong construct. The reassuring ‘thud’ of the doorways stays intact, as do components just like the digital instrument cluster, two-spoke steering wheel, and local weather management console. Nevertheless, Skoda has launched ‘olive inexperienced’ inserts on the dashboard, door panels and centre console, together with a light-textured fascia so as to add uniqueness. Octagonal surrounds on the air vents additional distinguish it from its stablemates.
Olive inexperienced inserts and new-design AC vents assist differentiate the Kylaq’s inside from the Kushaq.
A lightweight gray theme brightens its cabin atmosphere, and though the plastics are onerous, these really feel high-quality and long-lasting. Nevertheless, the Kushaq’s cabin tends to develop creaks and squeaks, so we’ll have to attend and see whether or not the identical occurs within the Kylaq.
The entrance seats are powered and ventilated and fairly snug. With the wheelbase being shorter than the Kushaq’s, the rear legroom is understandably tighter. Nevertheless, on the entire, it’s par for the course. Some may discover the backrest a tad too upright, and due to the cup-like seat contouring, this space is greatest for 2 adults solely.
Entrance seat consolation is a spotlight of the Kylaq.
The upright backrest angle enhances boot house, which Skoda advertises to be 446 litres as much as the roof; the usable boot house is simply 360 litres as much as the rear parcel shelf solely. Under the boot flooring sits a spare tyre, however in contrast to its premium steady mates, there is no such thing as a subwoofer positioned right here.
Rear legroom is common by phase requirements; contoured seatbacks make it greatest for simply two.
Whereas on that matter, the top-spec Kylaq is supplied with auto LED headlamps, 17-inch alloys, a sunroof, powered and ventilated entrance seats, a wi-fi charger and a digital instrument cluster, to call a couple of. The touchscreen will get up to date software program, which features a new colored theme. Wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay proceed to be provided, and whereas the audio system aren’t branded per se, the sound high quality is respectable. Some rivals go a step additional by providing rear disc brakes, ADAS, a 360-degree digital camera and a panoramic sunroof.
Solely the top-spec Kylaq Status variant will get the sunroof.
Skoda Kylaq efficiency
The Kylaq is powered by a 999cc 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine – the identical as within the Kushaq and Slavia. In a smaller package deal, its efficiency feels livelier, although turbo lag is noticeable under 2,000rpm. As soon as previous this level, energy supply is powerful, and the engine revs fairly freely, too. Our preliminary exams point out a 0-100kph dash in 11 seconds for the handbook variant, whereas the automated takes 11.9 seconds.
Kushaq’s 115hp engine feels livelier within the lighter Kylaq.
The 6-speed handbook gearbox will not be the smoothest, requiring effort to fit gears and that includes a heavy clutch. The 6-speed computerized gearbox is more likely to be the selection for a majority of city dwellers, and the excellent news is that it’s easy for essentially the most half and works effectively with this engine. The engine idling velocity continues to be excessive to forestall it from stalling. Nevertheless, it doesn’t leap ahead from a standstill as aggressively because the Kushaq. Throttle responses really feel a bit lazy, and to extract the most effective out of this engine, the automated will get a ‘Sport’ mode for extra zing. There are paddle shifters, in addition to a Tiptronic mode for handbook management over the transmission. However the downshifts aren’t very fast, and the transition from third to second or second to first gear can get jerky.
Downshifts when utilizing the paddle shifters aren’t all that fast.
The Kylaq’s refinement leaves scope for enchancment. The engine is prominently audible all all through, and you’ll really feel vibrations throughout the cabin, which signifies that insulation isn’t as beneficiant as its premium siblings.
Skoda Kylaq trip and dealing with
The Kylaq’s stiff chassis and suspension setup make it really feel nimble and interesting to drive. Regardless of its 189mm floor clearance, physique roll is effectively managed, and grip ranges are wonderful. The steering is gentle and exact – nice for metropolis driving, although driving fans might want extra suggestions.
Nevertheless, the stiffness leads to a relatively unsettled trip high quality, particularly at metropolis speeds, the place it sometimes feels jarring. On the braking entrance, stopping energy is powerful and confidence-inspiring, even with out rear disc brakes.
Skoda Kylaq verdict
The Kylaq is a fascinating drive.
Whereas the Kylaq doesn’t break new floor in any explicit space, it delivers the place it issues – partaking driving dynamics, strong construct high quality and a well-equipped function listing.
Nevertheless, its refinement ranges, rear seat consolation and trip high quality go away room for enchancment. The aggressive entry value is a robust hook, however the costs of its prime variants are near these of its better-equipped rivals. Regardless of this, the Kylaq’s nimble dealing with and Skoda’s fame for security and sturdiness make it an interesting various for these in search of a fun-to-drive, compact SUV.
The Kylaq could also be late to the social gathering, however it has made a press release. In abstract, the Kylaq delivers a Kushaq-like expertise at a comparatively extra reasonably priced value, and that makes it worthy of your consideration.
Additionally see:
Skoda Kylaq gas effectivity determine revealed, in contrast
Skoda Kylaq value, variants, options defined
