A NEW DAWN?

With the Kylaq, Skoda aims to make inroads into one of the fastest-growing segments in India. The real question is this can it compete with the Koreans and the Japanese?

- ISHAN RAGHAVA

For a while now, Skoda India has been teasing its upcoming product, and it's finally here! Introducing the Kylaq - a sub-4-metre SUV based on the fantastic MQB-AO-IN platform. This fastgrowing segment is one of the most competitive in our market, with the increasing sales making competition even more intense and cut-throat. So, does the Kylaq have what it takes to be a success in this segment? We spent a full day with it in Goa to find out exactly that.

PEPPY START

Get behind the wheel of the Skoda Kylaq, and you immediately experience that commanding SUV-like feel expected from a car in this segment. The flat bonnet stretching out in the front, combined with fairly unobstructed pillars, adds to that commanding feel. Finding a comfortable driving position is effortless, thanks to the electrically adjustable seat and all controls are within your reach.

The Kylaq is only available with the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, which produces 114bhp and 175Nm of torque. The gearbox options are pretty straightforward - a six-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. The engine's performance is also pretty reliable. While the engine feels a bit dull below 1,700rpm, there's enough power to keep things moving. Once you hit the turbo boost range, though, the engine becomes a powerhouse, transforming it into a lively performer and delivering impressive acceleration for a sub-4 metre SUV.