Skoda’s Upcoming Subcompact SUV To Be Called Kylaq; India Launch In 2025

Skoda Auto India has officially named its new subcompact SUV, ‘Kylaq.’ This long-awaited announcement comes after much anticipation and speculation within the market. The Kylaq is set to enter the highly competitive subcompact SUV segment upon its expected launch in 2025. With its entry, the Kylaq will rival popular models such as the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra 3XO, Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, and Tata Nexon.

The name Kylaq was selected through the company’s ‘Name Your Skoda’ campaign, which allowed participants to suggest names for the new vehicle. According to Skoda, the campaign garnered over 200,000 entries since its announcement earlier this year. The final name was chosen from a shortlist that included four other contenders: Kymaq, Kyroq, Kariq, and Kwiq. The Kylaq is now the third model to be introduced under Skoda’s India 2.0 strategy, following the Kushaq and Slavia.

The name fits Skoda's traditional ICE SUV nomenclature, starting with ‘K’ and ending with ‘Q’. It is derived from the Sanskrit word for crystal, reflecting both the vehicle’s pristine qualities and inspiration. It is pronounced Kai-lack, and Skoda says it's a nod to Mount Kailash.

The Kylaq will be built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the same architecture that underpins the Kushaq and Slavia. Although specific technical details are still under wraps, it is widely speculated that the vehicle will be powered by a 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine, capable of delivering approximately 113 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. The engine is likely to be paired with both a 6-speed manual gearbox and a torque converter automatic transmission.

With an expected starting price of ₹8.50 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the Kylaq aims to be positioned competitively in its segment.