Skoda Kylaq: The Skoda Kylaq has emerged as a significant player in India’s competitive sub-4-meter SUV segment, though its journey has been marked by both achievements and challenges. Despite facing recall issues and sales fluctuations, the Czech automaker’s first compact SUV continues to attract buyers with its premium build quality and segment-leading safety ratings.
Safety Recall Affects Over 25,000 Units
In a significant development, Skoda India has issued a recall for the Skoda Kylaq, Skoda Kushaq and Skoda Slavia due to a potential safety risk. While the Czech automaker has yet to release an official statement, the report indicates that over 25,722 units manufactured between May 24, 2024, and April 1, 2025 are affected.
The recall centers on a critical safety concern regarding rear seatbelt functionality. According to the company, affected units of the Kushaq, Slavia and Kylaq have a faulty rear seatbelt buckle latch plate. Besides this, the webbing of the rear centre seatbelt assembly and the buckle of the rear right seatbelt may fail. The company has committed to fixing the issue at no additional cost to customers.
Sales Performance Shows Mixed Signals
Recent sales data reveals a complex picture for the Kylaq’s market performance. In May 2025, the total sales figure of Skoda cars was units. This included sales of Kylaq (4,949), Slavia (937), Kushaq (644) and Kodiaq (208). However, this represents a 7.74 percent month-on-month decline from April’s figures.
Despite the recent dip, the Kylaq had shown promising growth earlier in the year. With 5,364 units sold and dispatched in April 2025, the Skoda Kylaq witnessed a marginal 1 percent growth in MoM sales. The vehicle continues to maintain its position as Skoda’s best-selling model in India.
Price Strategy Balances Market Positioning
Skoda has implemented a nuanced pricing strategy for the Kylaq, making adjustments across different variants. Skoda Kylaq prices have been revised across its all four variants. The lower variants get more expensive by up to Rs 36,000 while the higher variants get a price cut of up to Rs 46,000.
Currently, the Kylaq is positioned competitively with prices ranging from ₹8.25 lakh for the base Classic variant to ₹13.99 lakh for the top-spec Prestige AT model. This pricing strategy places it directly against established competitors like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Brezza.
CNG Option Under Evaluation
In response to India’s growing demand for alternative fuel vehicles, Skoda has said that it is currently evaluating a more fuel-efficient CNG option for the Kylaq in India. This development could significantly expand the Kylaq’s appeal in the price-sensitive Indian market where CNG vehicles are increasingly popular due to lower running costs.
The potential CNG variant would address one of the current limitations of the Kylaq lineup, which currently offers only petrol engine options. This move aligns with Skoda’s strategy to localize its offerings and cater to specific Indian market requirements.
Technical Excellence Maintains Appeal
Despite market challenges, the Kylaq continues to impress with its technical specifications and build quality. The 114bhp/178Nm, 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI turbo-petrol engine uses a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. Skoda claims an average fuel efficiency of 19.68kmpl (manual) and 19.05kmpl (automatic), making it economical for daily use.
The vehicle’s design philosophy reflects Skoda’s commitment to premium quality in the compact SUV space. The Kylaq offers segment-leading boot space of 446 litres, expandable to 1,265 litres with rear seats folded, providing superior practicality compared to most rivals.
Five-Star Safety Rating Remains Competitive Advantage
Perhaps the Kylaq’s strongest selling point continues to be its exceptional safety credentials. The Skoda Kylaq has garnered significant attention for its exceptional safety standards. Despite the absence of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), the Kylaq has achieved a prestigious 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP.
This achievement positions the Kylaq as one of the safest vehicles in its segment, featuring six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Hold Control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard equipment across all variants.
Market Positioning and Future Outlook
The Kylaq represents Skoda’s ambitious entry into India’s lucrative compact SUV segment, which accounts for a significant portion of overall passenger vehicle sales. Despite facing initial challenges including waiting periods of up to two months in certain cities, the vehicle has established a foothold in the competitive market.
Customer feedback has been largely positive, with buyers appreciating the Kylaq’s build quality, driving dynamics, and premium feel. However, some have noted areas for improvement, including camera quality and the absence of certain features like ADAS that are available in some competitors.
Strategic Importance for Skoda India
The Kylaq holds special significance for Skoda Auto India as its first sub-4-meter SUV designed specifically for the Indian market. Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, says: “The Škoda Kylaq is our first sub-4-metre SUV, designed in India and for India as a new entry point to our brand.
The vehicle’s performance in the Indian market will largely determine Skoda’s ability to expand its customer base and achieve greater market penetration. With plans to roll out 75,000 units annually, the Kylaq represents a significant volume play for the Czech automaker.
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Skoda Kylaq Industry Impact and Competitive Response
The Kylaq’s entry has intensified competition in the sub-4-meter SUV segment, forcing rivals to reassess their strategies. The combination of European build quality, advanced safety features, and competitive pricing has set new benchmarks in the segment.
As Skoda continues to address recall issues and explores alternative fuel options, the Kylaq’s journey reflects the broader challenges and opportunities facing global automakers in the dynamic Indian market. The upcoming CNG variant and potential resolution of current issues could significantly impact the vehicle’s future market performance.