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The Skoda Kylaq's entry into the sub-4 meter compact SUV segment marks a significant step for the carmaker in India. Following the launch of the Kushaq and Slavia, both locally developed, the Kylaq represents Skoda's third attempt to gain traction in this highly competitive market. The segment is dominated by established players like Maruti Suzuki, Tata, Mahindra, Hyundai, and Kia, making it challenging for newcomers to stand out.
Despite the competitive landscape, the Kylaq's base variant price of Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom) proves to be a strong contender. This price point is highly competitive when compared to rivals like the Mahindra XUV 3XO (Rs 7.79 lakh), Hyundai Venue (Rs 7.94 lakh), Kia Sonet (Rs 7.99 lakh), Tata Nexon (Rs 8 lakh), and Maruti Suzuki Brezza (Rs 8.34 lakh).
The Kylaq is powered by the same 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine found in the Kushaq and Slavia, generating 115PS of power and 178Nm of torque. Buyers have the option of a 6-speed manual transmission (MT) or a 6-speed automatic transmission (AT). While the base variant offers a turbo petrol engine with a manual gearbox, competitors present a diverse range of engine options. The XUV 3XO's base variant utilizes a 1.2-litre mStallion TCMPFi petrol engine (111PS/200Nm) paired with a 6-speed MT. The Venue's base model features the Kappa 1.2-litre MPi petrol engine (83PS and 114Nm) with a 5-speed MT. Similarly, the Sonet's base variant boasts the Smartstream G1.2-litre petrol engine (83PS/115Nm) with a 5-speed MT.
In contrast to the naturally aspirated petrol engines offered by the Venue, Sonet, and Brezza, the Nexon's base variant utilizes the Revotron 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine (120PS and 170Nm) coupled with a 5-speed MT. The Brezza's base model comes equipped with the K15C 1.5-litre petrol engine (103PS and 137Nm) mated to a 5-speed MT.
The Kylaq's competitive pricing, turbocharged engine, and feature-rich package aim to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish and efficient compact SUV. With its strong performance and fuel efficiency, the Kylaq has the potential to shake up the highly contested sub-4 meter SUV segment. However, its success will depend on its ability to attract customers in a crowded market with established competitors offering a wide range of options.
Source: Skoda Kylaq vs Maruti Suzuki Brezza vs Tata Nexon vs Mahindra XUV 3XO: Price comparison