Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Fronx Turbo – Which SUV Is Better?

These two sub-4m SUVs possess peppy turbo petrol mills which is the go-to choice for a whole bunch of driving enthusiasts

In this post, we are comparing the new Skoda Kylaq and the Maruti Fronx Turbo. Note that we are taking the turbo variant of the Fronx since Kylaq is also available with a sole turbo petrol mill. In this manner, the comparison will be fair and logical. Kylaq is the first compact SUV from the Czech car marque in India. Due to the increasing demand for vehicles in this segment, almost every major car company has an SUV in this space. It will be interesting to see how well customers respond to it. On the other hand, Fronx sits between the Baleno and Brezza in our market. It is a Baleno-based crossover which has created a niche of its own. Let us compare the two thoroughly.

Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Fronx Turbo – Specs

Let us commence with the specifications of the two vehicles. The Skoda Kylaq borrows the powertrain options from the lower versions of the Kushaq. Hence, there is a familiar 1.0-litre 3-cylinder TSI turbo petrol mill that generates a familiar 115 PS and 178 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. There are alternatives to choose between a 6-speed manual or a torque converter automatic transmission. The Czech auto giant claims that the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h comes up in a mere 10.5 seconds. The ARAI-claimed mileage is 19.68 km/l with the manual gearbox. Also, the top speed is a handy 188 km/h. Therefore, all sorts of buyers have the right choice as per their preference.

On the other hand, the Maruti Fronx Turbo gets a spirited 1.0-litre K-Series turbo petrol engine which is good for 100 PS and 147 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. One can choose between a 5-speed manual or an automatic transmission. Note that there is a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated mill which makes 90 PS and 113 Nm in petrol and 77 PS and 98 Nm of maximum power and torque in petrol and CNG iterations, respectively. The NA petrol mill is available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT gearbox. The turbo trim boasts a mileage of 21.5 km/l which is quite impressive.

Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Fronx Turbo – Price

The new Skoda Kylaq ranges from Rs 7.89 lakh to Rs 14.40 lakh, ex-showroom. These are quite interesting prices and in line with the rivals. On the other hand, the Maruti Fronx Turbo starts at Rs 9.72 lakh and goes all the way up to Rs 13.04 lakh, ex-showroom. Therefore, in the lower variants, the Kylaq has an edge while the Fronx looks more appealing higher up the order.

Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Fronx Turbo – Interior, Features and Safety

The new Skoda Kylaq boasts a full 5-star safety rating at the Bharat NCAP. That is a huge achievement and something that the new-age car buyers will really appreciate. We know that modern customers look for the absolute latest tech, convenience, comfort and safety amenities in their vehicles. As a consequence, car companies equip their products with all sorts of functionalities. The main highlights of the Kylaq incorporate:

• 8-inch Virtual Cockpit Driver’s Instrument Cluster
• 10.1-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Automatic Climate Control
• Electric Sunroof
• Cruise Control
• Stowing Space for Parcel Tray
• 6-way Electric Front Seats (segment-first)
• Steering-Mounted Paddle Shifters
• 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 Airbag De-activation
• Multi Collision Braking
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

On the other hand, even the Maruti Fronx Turbo is a feature-laden product. Its top amenities include:

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

Design and Dimensions

This is one aspect where the two SUVs differ significantly. Both these carry the typical design philosophies of their respective brand. The new Skoda Kylaq bears a demeanour much similar to the Kushaq. That is why many people are calling it a mini-Kushaq. Apart from that, the front fascia encapsulates a tough appearance with a butterfly grille, sleek LED DRLs on the end of the bonnet with the main LED headlamps positioned on the edges of the bumper, a rugged skid plate on the bumper towards the lower half and more. On the sides, viewers get to see prominent wheel arches and dual-tone alloy wheels with black side pillars and roof rails, faux roof rails and sharp creases on the door panels. Completing the external appearance at the rear are compact LED taillamps with a black panel between them, a roof-mounted spoiler and a sporty bumper with an adventurous skid plate. Overall, the Kylaq doesn’t look anything apart from a Skoda product.

On the other hand, the Maruti Fronx also embodies the modern design theme of the Indo-Japanese car marque. At the front, it gets sleek LED DRLs on the end of the bonnet which are connected via a chrome grille with the Suzuki emblem at the centre. Down below, you will see tri-beam LED headlamps on the extreme edges of the bumper with sporty contours on the bumper along with a sturdy skid plate underneath. This lends the fascia an aggressive charm. On the sides, the rugged elements continue with colossal wheel arches and side body skirtings finished in matte black materials, black side pillars and faux roof rails. The tail section contains a shark fin antenna, a roof-mounted spoiler, a connected LED taillamp, a sporty bumper and a rugged skid plate to accentuate the adventurous traits. I must mention that styling is subjective and each of these two has a distinct silhouette to cater to all sorts of potential buyers.

My View

Choosing between these two vehicles is purely a matter of preference. Both these are immensely capable when it comes to performance, tech equipment, safety and features. Even the prices are comparable for the most part. Hence, I would advise those who want absolute driving pleasure at this price point to go for the Skoda Kylaq. That is definitely a better handler. However, if you want peace of mind pertaining to the maintenance and brand image, Maruti Suzuki has been the largest car company in India for decades. In that sense, the Fronx makes more sense. I would also urge our readers to visit their nearest Skoda and Maruti Suzuki showrooms to experience the two cars in the flesh. That will help you make an informed decision.

Also Read: Skoda Kylaq vs Kia Sonet – Specs, Price, Features, Etc.