Skoda Kylaq: Top Variants Get Cheaper, Entry-Level More Expensive
The Indian compact SUV market is a battleground, and Skoda’s Kylaq has been at the heart of the action since its launch. In a move that’s sure to spark conversation among buyers, Skoda has revised the Kylaq’s pricing: while the top-end variants are now more affordable, the entry-level and mid-range trims have become pricier. This story is about more than just numbers-it’s about what these changes mean for buyers eyeing a Skoda badge in their driveway.
A Shift in the Kylaq’s Value Proposition
When the Kylaq first arrived, Skoda introduced it with aggressive introductory pricing, making it one of the most value-packed offerings in the sub-4m SUV segment. The introductory prices, initially set to expire in March 2025, were extended through April, giving buyers extra time to grab a deal. But as May rolled in, so did the new prices, and they tell a tale of shifting priorities.
How the Prices Have Changed
The biggest surprise is at the top. The Prestige MT, Kylaq’s flagship manual variant, now costs ₹46,000 less than before. The Prestige AT is also down by ₹41,000. The Signature+ trims (both MT and AT) see modest reductions of ₹15,000 and ₹5,000, respectively. These cuts make the fully loaded Kylaq more accessible and competitive, especially against rivals like the Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 3XO, both of which have been pushing hard in the premium compact SUV space.
But there’s a twist. The entry-level Classic trim, available only with a manual gearbox, has become dearer by ₹36,000, now starting at ₹8.25 lakh ex-showroom. The Signature and Signature AT trims also see increases of ₹26,000 and ₹36,000, respectively. The new Kylaq range now stretches from ₹8.25 lakh to ₹13.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India), with select colours offered as optional extras for ₹9,000.
Why This Matters
For many Indian buyers, the base and mid-spec variants are the sweet spot - offering a balance between price and features. The hike in these variants’ prices means the Kylaq is no longer the outright bargain it was at launch for those looking at the lower end of the range. However, for those eyeing the top-end, the value proposition has improved significantly. The Prestige and Signature+ trims now undercut many rivals while offering a rich feature set, strong safety credentials, and Skoda’s signature build quality.
Features That Set the Top-End Kylaq Apart
What do you get when you opt for the top-end Kylaq? Quite a lot, actually. The Prestige and Signature+ variants are positioned as full-featured, premium choices in the compact SUV space. The dashboard is dominated by a large 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This is complemented by a fully digital instrument cluster that adds a modern and high-tech feel to the cabin.
The seats are finished in leatherette upholstery, with front seats offering ventilation - an increasingly sought-after feature in the Indian climate. There’s also a sunroof, automatic climate control, wireless charging pad, and ambient lighting that elevate the in-cabin experience. Skoda hasn’t skimped on audio either; the top-end trims come with a premium sound system that offers crisp and clear acoustics.
Safety remains a key highlight, with six airbags, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, tyre pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX mounts as standard on these variants. The Prestige and Signature+ also boast full LED lighting with integrated DRLs, fog lamps, and cornering function, ensuring better visibility and styling. Diamond-cut alloy wheels, rear AC vents, cruise control, and push-button start further round out a spec sheet that ticks nearly all the boxes for urban buyers.
What’s Behind the Price Shuffle?
Skoda’s move seems strategic. The Kylaq’s top trims share much of their equipment with the Kushaq, and with the Kylaq consistently eating into Kushaq’s sales, Skoda appears keen to keep the premium buyer within its fold. By making the top-end Kylaq more affordable, Skoda is positioning it as a compelling alternative to the competition - and even to its own stablemate, the Kushaq.
Meanwhile, the Classic and Signature trims’ price hikes may be a response to strong initial demand and the end of the introductory phase. It’s also possible that Skoda is nudging buyers towards the better-equipped, higher-margin variants, which now offer more bang for the buck.
Real-World Impressions
The Kylaq’s appeal lies not just in its features but in its overall driving experience. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers brisk performance for city duties and occasional highway drives, while the suspension tuning offers a good balance between comfort and handling. The higher trims feel especially refined, thanks to sound insulation and attention to detail in cabin materials. Rear seat comfort may still be better suited to two adults rather than three, and the touch-based AC controls can take some getting used to, but those are minor quibbles in an otherwise well-rounded package.
The Road Ahead
With these price changes, Skoda is betting that Indian buyers will see the enhanced value at the top end and continue to flock to showrooms. For those who want a feature-rich, safe, and stylish compact SUV without stretching to the next segment, the Kylaq Prestige and Signature+ now make a stronger case than ever.
For budget-focused buyers, the Kylaq is still a solid choice, but the increased entry price means it faces stiffer competition from established players like the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, and Hyundai Venue. Ultimately, Skoda’s latest move sharpens the Kylaq’s appeal for those seeking a premium experience, while reminding everyone that in India’s SUV market, value is always a moving target.