Skoda India is set to unveil the Kylaq on November 6, marking its entry into the competitive compact SUV segment. The Kylaq will join a highly crowded field, facing off against established models like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Mahindra XUV300. With compact SUVs accounting for over 50% of SUV sales, the Kylaq’s debut is a crucial step for Skoda to tap into this booming market.
This article compares the Skoda Kylaq’s size and specifications with its rivals to give you a clear picture of how it stacks up on paper.
Skoda Kylaq vs Rivals: Dimensions
| Model | Kylaq | Nexon | Brezza | XUV 300 | Venue | Sonet | Magnite | Kiger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 3,995mm | 3,995mm | 3,995mm | 3,990mm | 3,995mm | 3,995mm | 3,994mm | 3,991mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,556mm | 2,498mm | 2,500mm | 2,600mm | 2,500mm | 2,500mm | 2,500mm | 2,500mm |
Though Skoda has not yet revealed the Kylaq’s width or height, the 3,995mm length is in line with most of its competitors in the sub-4m segment, except for slightly shorter models like the XUV300, Kiger, and Magnite.
However, a more important metric is the wheelbase. At 2,556mm, the Kylaq ranks second only to the XUV300, which leads the segment with a 2,600mm wheelbase. This longer wheelbase typically translates into better cabin space, and the XUV300 is known for its roomy interior, especially for rear-seat passengers. The Kylaq, with its relatively long wheelbase, is expected to offer more interior space than most competitors, except perhaps the XUV300.
Skoda Kylaq vs Rivals: Engine and Specifications
| Model | Kylaq | Nexon | Brezza | XUV 300 | Venue | Sonet | Magnite | Kiger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 3-cyl Turbo | 3-cyl Turbo | 4-cyl Naturally Aspirated | 3-cyl Turbo/ 3-cyl TGDi | 4-cyl NA/3-cyl Turbo | 4-cyl NA/3-cyl Turbo | 3-cyl NA/3-cyl Turbo | 3-cyl NA/3-cyl Turbo |
| Displacement | 999cc | 1199cc | 1462cc | 1197cc/1197cc | 1197cc/998cc | 1197cc/998cc | 999cc/999cc | 999cc/999cc |
| Power | 115hp | 120hp | 103hp | 111hp/131hp | 83hp/120hp | 83hp/120hp | 72hp/100hp | 72hp/100hp |
| Torque | 178Nm | 170Nm | 137Nm | 200Nm/230Nm | 114Nm/172Nm | 114Nm/172Nm | 96Nm/160Nm | 96Nm/160Nm |
| Manual Transmission | 6MT | 5MT/6MT | 5MT | 6MT/6MT | 5MT/6MT | 5MT/6iMT | 5MT | 5MT |
| Automatic Transmission | 6AT | 6AMT/7DCT | 6AT | 6AT | 7DCT | 7DCT | CVT | CVT |
The Kylaq will be powered by a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, delivering 115hp and 178Nm of torque. This engine, used in other Skoda-VW models, is known for its responsiveness and decent refinement, making it a capable contender. The Kylaq will offer both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
In terms of performance, the Kylaq’s engine places it in the middle of the pack. It’s more powerful than most naturally aspirated competitors but slightly less powerful than turbo-petrol variants. The Mahindra XUV300, with its 131hp TGDi engine, remains the class leader in terms of power. Additionally, the Brezza offers the largest engine but lacks a turbo-petrol option, while models like the Nexon, Venue, and Sonet come with a choice between naturally aspirated, turbo-petrol, and even diesel engines.
While the Kylaq sticks to a single petrol engine option, many of its rivals also offer diesel variants—a shrinking but still relevant part of this market. The Brezza stands out with a factory-fitted CNG option, and the Nexon is also set to get a CNG version soon.
Skoda Kylaq: Expected Price
The Skoda Kylaq is expected to be priced between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 14 lakh (ex-showroom). This aligns it with most of its competitors, although it may be slightly more expensive than budget-friendly options like the Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger.
In summary, the Kylaq appears to be a well-rounded contender in the compact SUV segment, offering competitive dimensions and a strong powertrain. It will face stiff competition, but its spacious interior and refined engine could give it an edge in the crowded market.
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