Mladá Boleslav, 6 November 2024 – Škoda Auto India proudly presents the all-new Škoda Kylaq, marking the Czech automobile brand’s debut in the highly sought-after sub-4-metre SUV segment, which remarkably constitutes nearly 50% of overall sales in the expansive Indian automobile market. This innovative Kylaq SUV stands out as the inaugural model in India to embrace Škoda’s distinctive Modern Solid design language, a hallmark of contemporary aesthetics and functionality. Under the hood, it is powered by an impressive and efficient 1.0 TSI engine paired with a selection of advanced features, boasting over 25 active and passive safety systems as standard for enhanced protection. This latest model, meticulously developed and produced locally for Indian consumers, is expected to grace the roads by early 2025, arriving at a competitive entry price of INR 789,000 (approximately EUR 8,700).
“The Škoda Kylaq is our first sub-4-metre SUV, designed in India and for India as a new entry point to our brand. India is key to our internationalisation plans, the world’s third-largest car market, and SUVs make up 50% of new vehicle sales. We aspire for the Kylaq to welcome new customers eager to explore this dynamic and rapidly-growing segment. Adding to its appeal, the Kylaq marks the debut of our Modern Solid design language in India, featuring eye-catching visual accents that reflect modernity. The model promises to enchant with a variety of variants, colours, features, and a robust package of more than 25 safety technologies. With a starting price of just INR 789,000, the Kylaq emerges as the most accessible Škoda model ever introduced in India.”
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto
Perfect choice for everyday explorers in the city and beyond
Perfectly balancing compact dimensions with a spacious and comfortable interior, superb handling characteristics, and an impressive 189 mm of ground clearance, the Kylaq is exceptionally equipped for urban commuting as well as adventurous journeys off the beaten path. The new Škoda Kylaq measures 3,995 mm in length, 1,783 mm in width, and 1,619 mm in height, featuring a generous 2,566 mm wheelbase. The model’s efficient 1.0 TSI engine generates 85 kW of power and delivers 178 Nm of torque to the front wheels, providing drivers with the option of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. It achieves a top speed of 188 kph and, when equipped with the manual option, accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in a swift 10.5 seconds.
“The Škoda Kylaq is our third offering based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, developed by our talented teams in India with comprehensive support from the Czech Republic for our Indian customers. Right from the outset, this innovative platform was meticulously designed to support a sub-4-metre vehicle like the Kylaq. This SUV is built on four foundational pillars: comfort, quality, global design language, and uncompromising safety. It has undergone rigorous testing across diverse terrains, altitudes, and varying weather conditions, validating its readiness to conquer the competitive landscape of India’s burgeoning automotive market.”
Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development
Reinterpretation of familiar Škoda lines with Modern Solid design language
The all-new Škoda Kylaq marks a significant milestone in the brand’s trajectory, introducing the first-ever sub-4-metre SUV to its lineup while also being the first Škoda model in India to incorporate the cutting-edge Modern Solid design language. Among its standout design features is the eye-catching shiny black grille adorned with 3D ribs, which elegantly replaces the traditional Škoda radiator grille. The aggressive lower front spoiler, crafted with sleek aluminium optics, adds to the vehicle’s modern aesthetic.
In alignment with the Modern Solid design era, the headlights of the Kylaq are characterized by their slim lines and minimalist, functional approach. They provide a fresh take on the iconic four-eye Škoda SUV face featuring exclusively LED technology across all variants of the Kylaq. The headlights’ narrower upper segments serve a dual purpose, acting as daytime running lights and turn signals, while the larger lower modules fulfill vital low and high beam functions, showcasing crystalline-designed LED elements for optimal illumination.
Elegantly sculpted sides of the Kylaq feature modern lines coupled with robust cladding around the wheel arches and sills, and a commanding ground clearance solidifying its stature as a confident SUV. A unique hexagon pattern along the side and rear accentuates its distinctiveness. Customers can choose from five striking paint finishes, including the exclusive Olive Gold, a remarkable debut for the Kylaq.
Advanced safety systems across all variants
Safety takes center stage in the all-new Škoda Kylaq, which is equipped with an extensive array of advanced active and passive safety systems to ensure maximum occupant protection at all times. All variants standardly feature 25 safety technologies, including the critical six airbags, Multi-Collision Brake, Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, XDS+, Anti-lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and Electronic Stability Control, among numerous others. Select variants raise the bar further with over 35 safety features such as cornering lights, automatic headlights and wipers, Hill Hold Control, and precise tyre pressure monitoring.
Simplicity and spaciousness inside, including the largest boot in the segment
The interior of the all-new Škoda Kylaq exemplifies simplicity combined with spaciousness, featuring clean lines and new sustainable Design Selections. Leading its segment, the Kylaq’s boot provides an impressive 446 litres of storage, expandable to an astounding 1,265 litres with the rear seats folded down flush. The vehicle is equipped with numerous Simply Clever storage options, including a dedicated stowage location for the parcel tray, maximising the utility of the boot’s remarkable capacity. Convenient storage is also integrated into all four doors and the centre console, enhancing practicality. Additionally, the Kylaq is fitted with bag hooks in the boot, Smartgrip bottle holders, coat hooks, ticket holders in the A-pillar, and a specially designed phone holder in the back pocket.
Infotainment – Digital interface
Taking the driving experience to a new level, the Škoda Kylaq is equipped with a central, 10.1-inch (25.6 cm) infotainment display that boasts a clear, user-friendly interface coupled with an intuitive graphic design. It facilitates wireless connectivity to both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay while providing wireless charging capabilities. Additionally, the driver benefit from an 8-inch (20.32 cm) Digital Cockpit, which offers a clear and comprehensive overview of all essential driving data, including speed, tyre pressure warnings, cruise control, and other vital driving information.
Features tailored for India
The Kylaq brings groundbreaking features to the Indian market, including segment-first six-way electric seats equipped with ventilation for the driver and front passenger. Paired with Auto Climatronic, these ventilated seats deliver exceptional comfort capable of handling the diverse climate challenges posed by extreme heat and cold prevalent across India. Certain variants offer the highly coveted electric sunroof, complementing the desires of Indian consumers. Additional offerings incorporate cruise control, steering-mounted paddle shifters associated with the six-speed automatic transmission, and leatherette upholstery, with the option of single or dual-tone interior designs.
Tested to the moon and back
The Kylaq has undergone extensive and rigorous testing, traversing more than 800,000 kilometres across various Indian terrains – a distance equating to over 20 laps around the Earth or even reaching the moon and back. This exhaustive testing accounted for altitudes varying from sea level up to 3,000 metres and temperatures spanning from a frigid -10°C up to a scorching +85°C. To ensure utmost quality, the Kylaq’s polymer components were exposed to direct environmental conditions for two years. Moreover, 100 random samples went through precise water tests, facing volumes of 25-30 litres of water per minute per square meter at angles reaching 16 degrees to confirm flawless performance without water ingress even in the most challenging monsoon conditions.
Built with a focus on sustainability
The Kylaq is expertly manufactured at the Chakan plant, utilizing 30% (18.5 MW) of the facility’s power sourced from renewable solar energy. The company has ambitious plans to enhance this figure to 75% by 2026. Furthermore, the plant is recognized as a water-positive facility, returning more water than it consumes as a part of its sustainability practices. With over 660,000 trees planted, it has received esteemed Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Liquid Discharge certifications. The Kylaq itself incorporates sustainable materials, featuring a unique bamboo-fibre-infused pad that presents a textured speckle effect on the dashboard, showcasing the brand’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Made in India for India
Conceived and manufactured in India, the all-new Kylaq constitutes Škoda Auto’s third SUV introduced into the Indian market, joining the ranks of the Kodiaq and Kushaq. The Kylaq has been meticulously designed to cater specifically to the sub-4-metre category, an automotive segment unique to India and exceptionally popular, commanding nearly 50% market share. This compact SUV is constructed on the localised MQB-A0-IN platform, which also underpins the Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan, demonstrating Škoda’s commitment to crafting vehicles tailored for the Indian consumer.
**Interview with Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, on the Launch of the All-New Škoda Kylaq**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Klaus. The Škoda Kylaq has generated significant buzz ahead of its launch. Can you tell us what sets this model apart in the competitive sub-4-metre SUV segment?
**Klaus Zellmer:** Thank you for having me. The Škoda Kylaq is a pivotal model for us as it is our first entry into the sub-4-metre SUV segment, which is vital in India where SUVs account for nearly half of all vehicle sales. What makes the Kylaq unique is its Modern Solid design language that not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also optimizes functionality. We’re excited to offer a vehicle that has been designed in India and for India, with all the local consumer needs in mind.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the Modern Solid design language. Can you elaborate on some of the design features that customers can expect?
**Klaus Zellmer:** Absolutely. The Kylaq features a striking shiny black grille with 3D ribs and a contemporary aesthetic with an aggressive front spoiler. It includes innovative LED headlights that provide both style and functionality. The overall design reflects robust lines and a commanding presence, all the while ensuring that the car remains compact and agile, perfect for both city driving and adventurous excursions.
**Interviewer:** Safety is a significant concern for many buyers. What safety features does the Kylaq offer, especially at its entry price?
**Klaus Zellmer:** Safety is at the forefront of our design philosophy. The Kylaq comes with an extensive suite of over 25 standard safety features, including six airbags, Multi-Collision Brake, Electronic Stability Control, and more. At select variants, we go beyond with additional safety technologies, ensuring our customers are protected regardless of the driving conditions.
**Interviewer:** Given the price point of Rs 7.89 lakh, how do you see the Kylaq competing with existing models in the market?
**Klaus Zellmer:** At this competitive price, the Kylaq emerges as the most accessible Škoda model ever. It offers a well-rounded package – from advanced safety features to a powerful yet efficient 1.0 TSI engine. With our focus on quality, comfort, and modern design, we believe it will attract not just traditional Škoda customers but also those new to the brand looking for a reliable and stylish SUV.
**Interviewer:** The interior design has been emphasized as well. Can you highlight some of the features that enhance the driving experience?
**Klaus Zellmer:** Certainly! The interior of the Kylaq blends simplicity with spaciousness. With the largest boot capacity in its segment, ample storage options, and a user-friendly 10.1-inch infotainment display, it enhances the overall driving experience. The inclusion of six-way electric seats with ventilation, particularly designed for India’s diverse climates, is a standout feature that speaks to our commitment to comfort.
**Interviewer:** how do you see Škoda’s growth in the Indian market with this new offering?
**Klaus Zellmer:** India is indeed a key region for our internationalisation strategy. With the launch of the Kylaq, we aim to strengthen our presence in the SUV market and appeal to a new customer base. Our dedicated approach to developing vehicles locally, backed by rigorous testing, ensures that we meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers in one of the world’s largest automotive markets.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Klaus. We look forward to seeing how the Kylaq performs in the market!
**Klaus Zellmer:** Thank you! We’re excited for the launch on December 2 and can’t wait to see how customers respond to the Kylaq.