The Skoda Kylaq will rival the heavyweights of the compact SUV space including the likes of Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV3XO
Skoda Kylaq is looking to take on the competition with a rather enticing proposition of the segment-lowest running cost. Skoda claims that for the first 33,333 customers, the maintenance cost will be Rs 0.24 / km for 5 years. That is incredibly impressive, especially since Skoda cars are considered to be heavy on the pocket. In fact, these first 33,333 customers will get a complimentary 3-year Standard Maintenance Package (SMP) which will help bring down the maintenance costs significantly. The bookings are already underway and the deliveries are slated to commence from January 27, 2025.
Skoda Kylaq Boasts Segment-Lowest Running Cost
Note that the Skoda Kylaq has been tested for over 800,000 km thoroughly. Apart from that, it has heavily localized compnents which ensure spare parts availability at relatively affordable prices. In fact, that was the original aim of the Indianized MQB A0 IN platform from VW Group. We see its consequences even today where a new product is able to use it to offer the customers peace of mind preventing high maintenance costs. With this, Skoda has addressed the most concerning issue pertaining to its models over the last many years. Now, we will have to wait to see how well the customers embrace the new compact SUV.
Additionally, Skoda has also announced the price list of the entire lineup. The compact SUV will be available in 4 variants – Classic, Signature, Signature+ and Prestige. Apart from the base model, all others have the option of manual and automatic transmission. The prices range from Rs 7.89 lakh to Rs 14.40 lakh, ex-showroom. The powertrain includes a familiar 1.0-litre 3-cylinder TSI turbo petrol mill which produces a decent 115 PS and 178 Nm of peak power and torque. This engine pairs with either a 6-speed manual or a torque converter automatic transmission.
| Specs | Skoda Kylaq |
| Engine | 1.0L Turbo Petrol |
| Power | 115 PS |
| Torque | 178 Nm |
| Transmission | 6MT / AT |
| Boot Space | 446 L |
My View
Skoda is trying hard to make an impressive entry with its first-even sub-4m SUV. That is a daunting task with such fierce competition. In fact, we have products from every major carmaker in this space. Sure, the segment is growing rapidly as more and more people are entering these vehicles. Still, one needs to be an all-rounder to create demand and sales. Hence, Skoda is trying to strike a balance between affordability, performance, convenience, practicality, features and maintenance costs. Let us see how things pan out once the SUV goes on sale.
Also Read: New Skoda Kylaq vs Kia Sonet – Which Compact SUV Offers What?
