Skoda India has introduced the Kylaq, the brand’s sub-4-metre compact SUV and its smallest SUV ever. Kylaq makes its global debut in India and is priced at Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom); The full price list will be announced at a later date. Bookings for the Kylaq will begin on December 2 and deliveries will start from January 27, 2025.

Skoda India aims to increase its sales figures by a huge margin by targeting annual sales of 1,00,000 units with the Kylaq. Currently, Skoda sells more than 50,000 vehicles, mainly driven by the influence of Slavia and Kushaq.

The Kylaq has a slightly different design compared to the current Skoda range of cars as it is based on the Modern Solid design theme of the brand, which made its debut with the Skoda Elroq. The SUV has strong character lines throughout, with the signature fascia blending LED daytime running lights with a black grille element. The headlights are located below, and the lower half of the front fascia features the grille grille and silver bumper.

It has a length of 3,995 mm, a wheelbase of 2,566 mm, a width of 1,783 mm and a height of 1,619 mm. Despite its smaller dimensions compared to the Kushaq, the Kylaq has appropriate Skoda proportions and has a wide road presence, which will help it in size perception compared to its competitors in the segment. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and has roof rails as well as wide cladding that adds to its SUV character. At the back, there are square-shaped taillights with T-shaped LED signature, while there is black Skoda lettering on the trunk lid.

The internals of the Kylaq are taken from the Kushaq, so it looks quite familiar. The layout is almost the same, with the same air conditioning vents, touch-based climate control and an 8-inch instrument cluster. The central 10-inch infotainment system is also the same but has a new user interface that is faster and better looking.

Features include a sunroof, keyless entry, wireless smartphone charger, wireless smartphone integration, ventilated seats, as well as power adjustment for the front two seats. There’s also a cooled glovebox, cup holders, and an armrest/storage box. Although smaller than the Kushaq, the Kylaq’s rear seats offer ample room for taller passengers, though it’s best enjoyed with two passengers. Rear passengers also get an armrest, adjustable headrests and three-point seat belts.

Skoda Kylaq has one of the largest trunks in its segment with a trunk volume of 446 liters. The impressive part is that the parcel tray also has a storage area to fit more luggage when needed.

Since VW Group sells only petrol cars in India, the Kylaq also has only petrol engines. It is offered with the single 1.0 TSI turbo-petrol three-piston engine option found in other VAG cars, producing 115bhp and 178Nm of torque. It comes with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

The starting price of Kylaq is Rs 7.89, while the rest prices will be announced at a later date. At this price point, it lags behind its main rivals Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3X0, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet. Although we are yet to drive the car in production form, to experience the ride and comfort, Skoda gave our Ed the opportunity to try out the handling and performance of the Kylaq at the CoaSTT track in Coimbatore. Read all about his performance here.