Is the Skoda Kylaq Worth Buying in 2026?

by

The Skoda Kylaq is the latest entrant in India’s subcompact SUV segment, and it has already generated significant buzz. The Kylaq aims to bring European engineering, premium features, and segment-leading safety to Indian buyers. But with rivals like the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Tata Nexon, is the Kylaq really worth buying in 2025? This article weighs the pros and cons.

Is the Skoda Kylaq Worth Buying in [cy]? 1

Striking Design with a European Touch

The Kylaq’s exterior follows Skoda’s modern-solid design language. It comes with crystalline LED projector headlamps, LED DRLs, LED tail lamps, and a glossy black front grille with 3D ribs. The R17 dual-tone alloy wheels add a bold stance, while the overall design blends elegance with practicality.

Pros: Stylish, premium, and distinctive compared to rivals.
Cons: Conservative buyers may find the design too bold.

Premium Interiors and Comfort

Step inside, and the Skoda Kylaq feels upmarket. Highlights include:

  • 25.6 cm infotainment system with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.
  • 20.32 cm Virtual Cockpit with customisable digital displays.
  • Ambient interior lighting and dual-tone upholstery.
  • Best-in-class 446 litres boot space for added practicality.
  • Rear AC vents with Type-C USB ports for rear passengers.

Pros: Spacious and tech-loaded cabin, practical for families.
Cons: No option for panoramic sunroof.

Comfort and Convenience

The Kylaq offers features typically reserved for larger SUVs:

  • 6-way electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats.
  • Climatronic auto AC with air care function.
  • Wireless phone charging.
  • Cruise control and paddle shifters (AT variants).
  • Electric sunroof with anti-pinch technology.

Pros: Segment-first comfort features like ventilated seats.
Cons: Some convenience features are limited to top trims.

Safety Credentials

One of the Kylaq’s strongest selling points is safety. It has achieved a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, scoring 30.88 points for adult safety and 45.00 for child safety.

Standard features across variants include:

  • Six airbags.
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
  • Traction Control System (TCS).
  • Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
  • Hill-hold control.
  • Rear-view camera with static guidelines.

Pros: Safest SUV in its class.
Cons: Lacks advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), now offered by some rivals.

Simply Clever Features

True to Skoda’s philosophy, the Kylaq includes thoughtful “Simply Clever” touches such as:

  • Smartclip ticket holder.
  • Utility recess on dashboard.
  • Coat hooks on the roof handles.
  • Smartgrip anti-spill bottle holders.
  • Reflective safety tape on all four doors.

Pros: Practical and unique features that enhance daily usability.
Cons: These may be seen as minor compared to big-ticket tech features in rivals.

Performance and Efficiency

The Kylaq is powered by a 1.0L TSI petrol engine producing 115 PS and 178 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic.

Fuel efficiency is commendable:

  • 19.68 km/l (MT).
  • 19.05 km/l (AT).

Pros: Peppy and efficient turbo-petrol engine.
Cons: No diesel or hybrid option, unlike some rivals.

Variants and Pricing

The Kylaq is offered in four trims — Classic, Signature, Signature+, and Prestige:

  • Classic (MT): ₹7.54 lakh
  • Signature (MT/AT): ₹9 lakh – ₹10 lakh
  • Signature+ (MT/AT): ₹10.33 lakh – ₹11.34 lakh
  • Prestige (MT/AT): ₹11.83 lakh – ₹12.79 lakh

With this spread, the Kylaq caters to both entry-level SUV buyers and those seeking premium features.

Pros and Cons of the Skoda Kylaq

Pros:

  • Award-winning design and premium interiors.
  • 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating.
  • Turbo-petrol engine with strong efficiency.
  • Segment-first features like ventilated front seats.
  • Simply Clever practicality for everyday use.

Cons:

  • No diesel or hybrid engine options.
  • ADAS features are missing in a segment that’s adopting them.
  • Some features are restricted to higher trims.

Final Verdict: Worth Buying?

Yes — the Skoda Kylaq is worth buying in 2025 if you want a safe, stylish, and premium subcompact SUV with European engineering. Its design, interior quality, and safety credentials set it apart, while the turbo-petrol engine ensures fun and efficient drives.

That said, buyers seeking diesel engines, hybrid efficiency, or ADAS tech may prefer alternatives like the Hyundai Venue or Kia Sonet.

For families and professionals who value safety, practicality, and a premium feel at competitive pricing, the Skoda Kylaq is one of the smartest buys this year.

Leave a Comment