Skoda Kylaq Test Drive Review
Skoda Kylaq Test Drive Review

Skoda Kylaq Test Drive Review

25/01/2025
0 Comments

Introduction

The Skoda Kylaq has officially made its debut as the brand’s first offering into the highly competitive sub-four-meter SUV segment. Being built on the MQB-A0-IN platform that underpins the Kushaq, Slavia, Volkswagen Taigun, and Virtus, the Kylaq promises to deliver Skoda’s signature blend of German engineering in an overcrowded compact SUV segment. Positioned to rival value-driven offerings from Korean and Japanese automakers that are ruling the Indian market with an iron fist, the Kylaq aims to disrupt the market with its blend of practicality and sporty appeal. 

Exterior 

The Kylaq adopts a clean and modern look, with a wide and practical stance. The resemblance to the Kushaq is unmistakable and why not. The Kushaq has everything going for itself, besides the sub 4-meter rules which sadly applies only to our country. The Kylaq is made just for one reason, to offer everything below 4-metres. It is a tad bit lighter than the Kushaq, minimal on paper, but on the road, that’s where you can actually notice due to its peppy nature and aggressive acceleration. 

Interior

Step inside, and the Kylaq impresses with spacious front seats and a thoughtfully designed cabin. The front seats offer ample shoulder and legroom, coupled with ventilation( a bit underpowered ). While the rear seats provide decent support, taller passengers find the space slightly tight. The materials are predominantly high-quality hard plastics, but Skoda has tastefully used textures such as a fabric touch on the dashboard, in plastic. The finishes elevate the cabin’s overall feel. Features like the powered front seats and a practical layout strike a fine balance between comfort and utility. While the Kylaq lacks certain advanced features like ADAS it compensates in other areas. 

You get an updated infotainment system which runs a faster processor and software. Sound quality is quite good but not comparable to the Bose Audio offered by KIA in the Sonet. You get all the bells and whistles offered in the segment such as a sunroof, digital instrument cluster, 6-airbags and so on. The instrument cluster is the same as that on the Kushaq but with a different colour.

Performance

The Kylaq is powered by a 1.0-litre TSI engine, delivering 115 HP and 178 Nm of torque, this engine is shared with the Kushaq and Slavia. Mated to this engine is a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic torque converter. Skoda has kept the lineup pretty simple, offering just one engine and 2 gearboxes. The drivetrain ensures a peppy and engaging performance. Thanks to the SUV’s lighter weight compared to its sibling, the Kylaq enjoys a superior power-to-weight ratio, making it feel aggressive and quick spore of the same engine doing duty.

Skoda’s decision to skip CNG options aligns with its focus on achieving optimal performance and fuel efficiency with the turbocharged engine. However this segment is hugely driven by CNG demand and it will interesting to see how that pans out as Maruti is the lead CNG player in this segment. 

Driving Dynamics

On the road, the Kylaq sets itself apart with its dynamic handling and refined driving experience. It feels and behaves like a driver centric car. The road manners are much improved from the Kushaq. The slightly shorter wheelbase compared to the Kushaq as well as a more rigid body shell ensures predictable and enjoyable driving manners. 

The icing on the cake is the newly calibrated suspension and the steering, it feels miles ahead of the Kushaq, which honestly isn’t bad by any means. The steering gives you superb feedback and weighs up beautifully as the speeds pick up. I have previously driven the Kylaq on the track and it was indeed a very enjoyable experience. Being a monocoque, body roll is well within control and the Kylaq takes changes in direction quite seriously and precisely. 

In fact, there is nothing and I say nothing in the compact SUV segment which drives and handles better the Kylaq. It is nimble and responsive, especially in tight corners. Somehow, Skoda has hit the sweet spot with the suspension, which feels quite stiff while crowning yet won’t break your back over potholes. Even with a stiffer setup the ride is comfortable and will handle mild off-road conditions without unsettling the occupants.

Verdict

The Skoda Kylaq brings a fresh perspective to the sub-four-meter SUV segment and gives Skoda an opportunity to shine, which they deserve. The Kylaq is the best driver centric car in the segment, Period. There is nothing which gets quite as close. Skoda has managed to price it competitively and are offering a lot of bang for the buck, and yes it does miss out on the CNG option, but buyers will go for it for the sporty looks, and the standout driving experience it delivers with refined handling, peppy performance, practical and well-finished cabin. With its strong blend of German engineering and sporty dynamics, the Kylaq is poised to be a formidable contender in its class. Skoda has taken its time entering this segment, but with the Kylaq, it’s clear they’ve aimed to make a lasting impression.

Welcome to CarAdvice, India’s premier website for all your car buying needs. At CarAdvice, we value our customers like they are our own kind, and strive to offer them the best service possible.
Copyright © 2024. All Rights Reserved.