New Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Fronx – What Offers What?

The Czech car marque is entering the compact SUV segment to cater to a much wider range of potential customers

I am comparing the new Skoda Kylaq and Maruti Fronx on the basis of features, safety, specs and design. While both these might seem different at first glance with the Kylaq being a compact SUV while the Fronx being a crossover, they will have a massive overlap in their prices. Also, they both are sub-4m products which makes them almost identical with regard to dimensions. With Kylaq, Skoda aims to make the brand accessible to the growing population of the country. It uses the heavily localized MQB A0 IN platform which also underpins the Kushaq and Slavia. On the other hand, the Maruti Fronx is based on the Baleno premium hatchback which is among the highest-selling vehicles in the country. Let us compare the two thoroughly on various parameters.

New Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Fronx – Specs and Price

The Czech compact SUV comes with a familiar 1.0-litre 3-cylinder TSI turbo petrol mill which generates a decent 115 PS and 178 Nm of peak power and torque. Performing the transmission duties is either a 6-speed manual or a torque converter automatic gearbox. Remember, this is the same engine and transmission option as we see on the Kushaq and Slavia in lower trims. However, since Kylaq is lighter than the Kushaq, this mill propels it from 0 to 100 km/h in just 10.5 seconds, which is incredible for an SUV. The top speed is a whopping 188 km/h. Skoda has currently only announced the price of base model. It will start at Rs 7.89 lakh, ex-showroom. More details will emerge in the coming days. Skoda claims a mileage of around 20 km/l.

On the other hand, the Maruti Fronx is available with two powertrain options – a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol mill. These churn out 90 PS / 113 Nm and 100 PS / 147 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. One can choose between a 5-speed manual or an AMT with the 1.2-litre mill and a 5-speed manual and an automatic transmission with the 1.0-litre turbo. Apart from that, there is also a CNG avatar which is good for 78 PS and 99 Nm of peak power and torque. That is available with a sole 5-speed manual gearbox. The prices range from Rs 7.51 lakh to Rs 13.04 lakh, ex-showroom. The mileage figures range from 21.79 kmpl with the petrol manual to 28.51 km/kg for the CNG.

New Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Fronx – Interior and Features

Then we delve into the interior and in-cabin amenities of both these cars. This is a critical category in today’s world where buyers want their cars to boast absolutely modern functionalities and tech. That is why we see car marques equip their latest cars with loads of new-age features to pamper the customers. Firstly, let us start with what the Skoda Kylaq will offer:

• 8-inch Virtual Cockpit Driver’s Instrument Cluster
• Stowing Space for Parcel Tray
• 6-way Electric Front Seats (segment-first)
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Automatic Climate Control
• Electric Sunroof
• Cruise Control
• Steering-Mounted Paddle Shifters
• 10.1-inch Infotainment Display
• Leatherette Seats
• Wireless Charging
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• 25 Standard Active and Passive Safety Features
• 6 Airbags
• Traction and Stability Control
• ABS with EBD
• Brake Disc Wiping
• Roll Over Protection
• Motor Slip Regulation
• Electronic Differential Lock
• Passenger De-activation
• Multi Collision Braking
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

On the other hand, even the Maruti Fronx is a feature-laden vehicle. Its main highlights include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 9-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display with SmartPlay Pro
• Onboard Voice Assistant with “Hi Suzuki” Command
• Over-the-Air (OTA) Update
• USB and Bluetooth Connectivity
• 6-speaker ARKAMYS Surround Sense Audio System
• Tilt Adjustment for Steering Wheel
• Electrically Foldable ORVMs
• Keyless Entry
• Wireless Charger
• Cruise Control
• Paddle Shifters
• Steering-Mounted Controls
• 60:40 Split Rear Seats
• Height Adjustable Driver Seat
• Front and Rear Adjustable Headrest
• Automatic Climate Control
• LED Multi-Reflector Headlamp
• 6 Airbags
• Electronic Stability Program
• Hill Hold Assist
• Reverse Parking Sensors
• All 3-Point ELR Seat Belts
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Manual IRVM (Day/Night)
• Head-Up Display
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Hill Hold Assist

Design and Dimensions

The new Skoda Kylaq bears that mini-Kushaq vibe with a butch stance. At the front, it carries that traditional Skoda butterfly grille with LED DRLs on the end of the bonnet, while the main headlamps are positioned on the extreme edges of the bumper and the lower section of the bumper boasts a massive grille area with a sturdy skid plate underneath. On the sides, viewers are able to experience prominent wheel arches which neatly fill the elegant dual-tone alloy wheels. Other aspects include black B-pillars, roof rails and a muscular shoulder line. At the rear, we are able to witness a roof-mounted spoiler, and compact LED taillamps connected by a black bar with Skoda lettering on it, and I particularly like the lower section with an adventurous bumper and a rugged skid plate. Therefore, it looks like a miniature iteration of the Skoda Kushaq. In any case, it will definitely make heads turn wherever it goes.

On the other hand, the Maruti Fronx accentuates a crossover silhouette with that upright stance despite being based on the Baleno. The front section consists of sleek LED DRLs on the bonnet with a chrome belt connecting them atop a massive grille. The main headlamp cluster is positioned on the edges of the bumper and a visible skid plate is installed under the bumper. On the sides, the wheel arches are chunky with matte black cladding and a side body skirting with stylish alloy wheels and faux roof rails. The tail end looks sporty with a shark fin antenna, connected LED taillamps, sporty bumper and imposing skid plate. Hence, the Fronx certainly belongs to a niche category of crossover cars. All in all, both these vehicles bear a distinct road presence.

My View

Before reaching any conclusion, it must be said that both these are compelling propositions. Each of these will find dedicated applications. However, it is the Fronx which offers multiple engine options. In this manner, those who don’t want a high-performance engine can opt for the less powerful 1.2-litre petrol mill. In the case of Kylaq, there is just one powertrain. Additionally, both these vehicles possess the latest tech, convenience, safety and connectivity features to pamper the customers. Also, the Kylaq is the more practical of the two due to its body type and the amount of space available inside. Apart from that, we will have to wait for the official prices to come to a logical conclusion about which model will make more sense.

Also Read: New Skoda Kylaq vs Slavia – Which Skoda Offers What?