Skoda introduced the sub-compact crossover Kylaq for the Indian market in late 2024 for the 2025 model year, confirming the carmaker's commitment to local customers.
The Czech automaker tried to capture a larger share of the subcompact crossover and SUV segment from the Indian market, which accounted for about 50% of the sales in 2024. But for that, it had to create a vehicle tailored for India. As a result, its engineers burned the midnight oil to make the Kylaq. They tested it across over 800,000 kilometers (497,100 miles) in the country's environment for several years in extreme conditions. The result was a rugged-looking SUV that was available with unique features in its class. To make it affordable, the automaker used the tried and tested MQB-A0-IN platform used on the Kushaq and the Slavia sedan models as well.
The 2025 Skoda Kylaq had a fresh design, which the automaker named "Modern Solid." At the front, the subcompact SUV had a bold look with narrow LED headlights followed by foglamps underneath them on the upper side of the bumper. The car manufacturer placed a reversed trapezoidal grille adorned by 3D slats between them. At the same time, on the lower side of the wrapped-around plastic bumper, the Kylaq sported a second, A-shaped air intake flanked by a pair of side scoops.
From its profile, the car showed its SUV proportions but in a small package. At the front, the automaker installed flared fenders adorned by black plastic moldings around the wheel arches. The sculptured door panels sported black lower trims that were continued by the black side sills, which emphasized the vehicle's ground clearance. On the rear fenders, the 2025 Skoda Kylaq featured a creased upper line, like shoulders, trying to create the look of a potent car. Finally, at the back, the tailgate integrated a raked-forward window that sported a roof spoiler at the top. As a final touch, to make the subcompact SUV look more upscale, the car was available with light alloy wheels.
Inside, customers were greeted by a modern cabin. On the dashboard, atop the center stack, the 2025 Skoda Kylaq had a 10.1" touchscreen. At the same time, the driver fronted an eight-inch display for the digital cockpit, which showed all the vehicle's essential data. On the center stack, the car manufacturer installed the HVAC control panel. The center console housed the gear stick or the gear selector (depending on the options), the handbrake, and an armrest with a cubby underneath. The tall-mounted seats with available ventilation and six-way power adjustments hugged customers. Furthermore, selected versions were available with a power sunroof. These were unusual features for a subcompact crossover. In the back, the bench seat could accommodate up to three passengers, and the trunk could expand from 446 liters (15.7 cu-ft) to 1,265 liters (44.6 cu-ft).
Under the hood of the 2025 Skoda Kylaq, at the sales start, the automaker installed a one-liter turbocharged engine paired to a standard six-speed manual gearbox. Customers could get the 2025 Skoda Kylaq with a six-speed automatic transmission as an option. Both versions sent their 115 PS (113 hp) to the front wheels via an electronic lock differential.