Skoda is continuing its focus on the SUV market as part of its India 2.0 strategy, with the Skoda Kylaq being a key part of this plan. The automaker already offers the Kodiaq and Kushaq in India, and the Kylaq will be the third new SUV in its lineup. Skoda says the name “Kylaq” is inspired by Mount Kailash and the Sanskrit word for crystal, reflecting a connection to India.
Built on the MQB-A0-IN Platform
The Skoda Kylaq SUV will be built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, a more affordable version of Volkswagen Group’s MQB modular platform. This platform has been used in other successful models, including the Skoda Kushaq (launched in 2021) and the Skoda Slavia (launched in 2022). The Kylaq is the third model from Skoda to use this platform, and it promises to deliver a strong balance of cost-effectiveness and performance.
Skoda Kylaq Design
The Skoda Kylaq comes with a bold design, featuring new LED projector headlamps and a vertically slatted front grille, which is a signature of Skoda’s design. The front and rear bumpers give the SUV a chunky and robust look. Additional design highlights include pentagon-shaped taillights with LED inserts, a sculpted tailgate, blacked-out alloy wheels, roof rails, and rear disc brakes. These design elements contribute to the SUV’s modern and stylish appearance.
Dimensions and Testing
The Skoda Kylaq will have a length of 3,995 mm, a wheelbase of 2,566 mm, and a ground clearance of 189 mm. Skoda claims the Kylaq has undergone rigorous testing, covering over 800,000 kilometers in various environments. The SUV has been tested in temperatures ranging from -10°C to +85°C and at elevations from sea level to 3,000 meters. To ensure it handles extreme monsoons, 100 samples of the Kylaq were tested with 25-30 liters of water per minute per square meter at angles up to 16 degrees, ensuring it remains water-tight even in heavy rain.
Powertrain and Safety Features
The Skoda Kylaq will be powered by a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI petrol engine. This engine will deliver 114 bhp of power and 178 Nm of torque. Buyers will have the option of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Safety is a key focus for the Kylaq. Like the Kushaq and Slavia, which both received five-star safety ratings in Global NCAP tests, the Kylaq is expected to come with over 25 active and passive safety features. These include six airbags, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), rollover protection, and ISOFIX seats for child safety.
