Škoda Auto Launches Series Production of the New Škoda Kylaq at Pune Plant

Škoda Auto has officially launched series production of its highly anticipated Škoda Kylaq at the Pune manufacturing plant in India. The new SUV celebrated its world premiere in early November 2023 in Mumbai, with first deliveries to local customers slated for January 2025. As the third model developed and produced locally, the Kylaq targets the popular sub-4m SUV market, which has become a significant segment in India.

A New Chapter for Škoda in India

The Škoda Kylaq is not only an important milestone for Škoda’s global strategy but also represents the first model in India to showcase Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language. Powered by an efficient yet powerful 1.0 TSI engine, the vehicle offers over 25 active and passive safety features as standard, highlighting Škoda’s commitment to both safety and comfort.

To support the launch of this new model, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Ltd (ŠAVWIPL) has ramped up production capabilities at the Pune plant, increasing its capacity by 30% to reach an annual output of 255,000 vehicles. This significant production boost plays a crucial role in Škoda’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the dynamic Indian market.

Remarks from Key Leaders

Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics, shared:
“The successful start of production for the Škoda Kylaq reflects the teamwork and collaboration between our teams in India and the Czech Republic. Every detail has been meticulously planned and executed, ensuring we meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency. These efforts create the ideal prerequisites for the Kylaq to become a cornerstone of our success in India, setting new benchmarks in the compact SUV segment.”

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of ŠAVWIPL, added:
“We are happy to begin production of Škoda Auto India’s first sub-4m SUV. The Kylaq is engineered and developed in India to cater to the evolving needs of Indian customers. By manufacturing the Kylaq locally, we proudly support the ‘Made-in-India’ initiative, while maintaining the Group’s core values of safety, comfort, and driving dynamics. The positive reception at the world premiere last month confirms that the Škoda Kylaq will resonate with Indian car buyers.”

Built for India, Designed for the World

The Škoda Kylaq is based on the MQB A0-IN platform, a joint development between Škoda engineers in the Czech Republic and India. This platform is also the foundation for other successful models, such as the Kushaq SUV and Slavia saloon, both developed for India, by India. The launch of Kylaq production is a key part of Škoda’s strategy to drive growth in emerging markets, particularly in Vietnam, the ASEAN region, and Kazakhstan.

A Name Chosen by the Indian Public

The name Kylaq was chosen through Škoda’s ‘Name Your Škoda’ contest, which received over 24,000 suggestions from the Indian public. Inspired by Mount Kailash and derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘crystal’, the name reflects one of Škoda’s traditional design inspirations and resonates with the company’s long-standing connection to Indian culture.

Key Features and Specifications

The Škoda Kylaq fits perfectly into the highly competitive sub-4m SUV category. It features a spacious interior with the largest boot capacity in its class, offering 446 litres of storage. Every variant comes standard with over 25 active and passive safety features, including multi-collision braking and six airbags, ensuring high levels of safety for both the driver and passengers.

The 1.0 TSI turbocharged petrol engine delivers 85 kW, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, combining power with fuel efficiency. Additionally, the Kylaq introduces several segment-first features, such as ventilated front seats with six-way electric adjustment and an electrically operated sunroof (on select variants), a feature highly valued by Indian consumers.

The vehicle’s interior design incorporates sustainable materials, including trim panels with bamboo fabric, further reflecting Škoda’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Conclusion

With the launch of the Škoda Kylaq, Škoda Auto continues to strengthen its position in the Indian market, offering a well-rounded compact SUV that combines style, safety, comfort, and advanced technology. The new Kylaq represents a crucial step in Škoda’s strategy to meet the demands of the Indian customer, while also contributing to the Make-in-India initiative. The future of Škoda in India looks bright, with this dynamic new model setting the stage for continued success.