Skoda has officially revealed that its forthcoming compact SUV, the Kylaq, will make its global debut in production-spec form on November 6, 2024, ahead of its launch in early 2025. This marks Skoda’s first entry into the compact SUV market, and the Kylaq will be the third model to use the MQB-A0-IN platform. It will also be the inaugural product under the company’s India 2.5 strategy.
Confirmed Production and Volume Targets
Our earlier scoop on the Kylaq entering production in October has been confirmed. Skoda plans an annual production target of 50,000 to 70,000 units. Initially, the Kylaq will be sold domestically, with exports to follow, aiming to optimize economies of scale.
Engine and Tech Specs
The Kylaq will feature a 115hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, and will likely come with advanced features such as ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and a 360-degree camera. The SUV will compete against popular models like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Brezza.
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Skoda Kyalq: Design and Expectations
Teasers and design sketches suggest that the Kylaq will follow Skoda’s established design cues while introducing the brand’s ‘Modern Solid’ design language in India for the first time. Expect familiar elements like split headlamps and a wide grille with vertical slats, drawing from the recently unveiled Skoda Elroq. Its compact form will feature a shorter wheelbase than the Kushaq, with optimized front and rear overhangs to stay under the crucial four-metre mark.
Interior and Feature Updates
The Kylaq’s interior will likely mirror that of the Kushaq but could come equipped with more tech-savvy features, including a 360-degree camera and an ADAS suite, adding more appeal compared to the Kushaq and Slavia.
Powertrain Details
Powering the Kylaq is a 115hp, 178Nm, 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. This reliable powertrain will ensure competitive performance in the compact SUV segment.
Rivals and Pricing Strategy
Key competitors for the Kylaq include the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Brezza. To gain an edge, Skoda is expected to adopt an aggressive pricing strategy, leveraging the heavily localized MQB-A0-IN platform to keep costs competitive right from the launch.
Conclusion
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In summary, the Skoda Kylaq is poised to make a significant impact as Skoda’s first compact SUV, debuting globally in production form on November 6 and set to launch in early 2025. Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform and part of the brand’s India 2.5 strategy, the Kylaq promises competitive performance with its 115hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, alongside advanced features like ADAS and a 360-degree camera. With a design inspired by Skoda’s new ‘Modern Solid’ philosophy and an aggressive pricing strategy, the Kylaq is set to challenge established rivals like the Hyundai Venue and Tata Nexon in the compact SUV market.