FAMILIAR STRENGTHS, NEW CHALLENGES

Can the Kylaq turn the key to unlock Skoda's winning formula?

- SANEET DSILVA

SKODA KYLAQ

Engine: 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol (3-cylinder)

Power: 114 bhp Torque: 178 Nm

Transmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed torque-converter automatic

Ground Clearance: 189mm Boot Capacity: 446 litres

Pros: Premium build quality, safety features (5-star BNCAP rating), and segment-leading boot space

Cons: Cramped rear legroom, lack of groundbreaking features, and no alternative engine options (diesel or CNG)

I It has been 25 years since the Czech automaker Skoda debuted in India, entering the market with promises of sophistication and engineering. Over the years, Skoda has managed to amass a devoted following, primarily from people who enjoy cars like the Octavia and the vRSvehicles that, frankly, cater to those who appreciate the finer things in life. The trouble is, fondness for beautifully engineered cars doesn't keep the lights on. For all their virtues, Skoda's models have often been seen as over-engineered, overpriced, and, dare I say, out of touch with what most Indian buyers actually want.

And now, here we are in 2025. Skoda stands awkwardly at a crossroads, staring at the sub-4m SUV segment, an arena that now swallows nearly 30% of India's car market. This is not a space for the faint-hearted; it's a brutal contest where practicality and value beat engineering poetry every time. Skoda has a fight on its hands, and it's not one it can afford to lose.

With nine other manufacturers already entrenched in this category having one, if not two models, Skoda is a latecomer to the fray But better late than never, as they say, and Skoda is hoping to change its fortunes with the launch of the Kylaq. Starting at Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kylaq aims to bring a premium touch to a fiercely competitive segment. The question is: does it have what it takes to succeed?