Kylaq Teaser With Rohit Shetty Out: What To Expect From Skoda’s 1st Sub Compact SUV Unveiling Tomorrow
Skoda is set to launch its newest product for India tomorrow- the Kylaq sub-4m SUV. The brand seems to be planning big for the unveil. It recently released a teaser starring director Rohit Shetty, pumping up anticipations further. Skoda will do the premiere in pure Rohit Shetty style.
The video shows cinematic visuals of a helicopter delivering a package/ shipment which has the Kylaq in it. It shows fast cuts of the ‘Kylaq’ lettering and portions of the tailgate. The signature headlamp silhouette can also be seen for some time.
Cinematic Unveiling In Plans
The global premiere will be through a high-octane motion picture helmed by Rohit Shetty- a new way of doing it within the industry. This film will be streamed on various OTT platforms and Jio Cinema. The Kylaq will be the first SUV to do this. Wait till 12:30 pm on November 6 2024 to watch the film.
Brand director Petr Janeba said in a statement “Films are one of the many things that are common culture in India and the Czech Republic. And in India, movies are very nearly a way of life and part of every Indian’s fibre. Like we have said earlier, the Kylaq was conceived and designed for the people of India. The Kylaq was also named by the people of India. It is the beginning of a New Era for us here.
It is an SUV that will democratise European technology on Indian roads. So it was imperative that when the Kylaq makes its first appearance, all of India shares the experience with us. We thought there was no one better than Rohit Shetty who has a knack for making larger-than-life magnum opuses. Because for us and our customers, the Škoda Kylaq will be no less than a larger-than-life magnum opus.”
Awaiting Safety Results
Skoda is awaiting the crash test results of the Kylaq. The SUV will likely score a 5-star GNCAP rating. It will come equipped with over 25 standard safety features, which include six airbags, traction control, stability control, ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Brake Disc Wiping. It will also have Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Passenger Airbag Deactivation, Multi-Collision Braking, and ISOFIX mounting points. It will, however, give ADAS a miss.
Story Behind Its Name
The name Kylaq means Crystal in Sanskrit. Skoda conducted a naming campaign for the upcoming SUV. The condition was that the name should start with ‘K’ and end in ‘Q’. Mohammed Ziyad, a Quran teacher from Kerala, finally came with the winning name Kylaq.
Rob Designed The Camo For Kylaq
Closer to its debut, Skoda organized a covered track drive for the SUV. It, however, was specific about keeping the design a secret and thus needed the best camouflage. It was designed by the renowned artist Harun Robert aka Rob (famous for his stint in the MAD show). The camo seems truly Indian and has an artistic touch to it.
Design
The Kylaq is set to bring Skoda’s latest Modern Solid design language to the sub-4 meter SUV segment in India, taking cues from the recently launched Elroq. It has cleaner lines, smoother surfaces and a confident stance. It will have a ground clearance of 189 mm. Design highlights include a split headlamp design with DRLs, projector LED headlamps, new wheels and a unique tail light design.
Dimensions
Measuring 3,995 mm in length, the Kylaq aligns perfectly with India’s sub-4 meter bodystyle that could benefit from lower tax slabs. It will be able to compete strongly against the Nexon and Brezza upon launch. It will have a wheelbase of 2,566 mm. This is in fact, longer than the two rivals mentioned above.
Interior
The SUV will have a comfortable and practical cabin. It will take a tech-forward approach and will come with features like a first-in-class six-way adjustable, ventilated front seats for the driver and passenger.
Platform and Engine
Based on the MQB A0 IN platform, Skoda Kylaq has been tested extensively. It will be powered by the reliable 1.0L TSI petrol engine from Kushaq, producing 115hp and 178 Nm of torque. It will be paired with 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions.
Performance and Handling
During the covered track drives, the pre-production model demonstrated balanced handling and stability, showing similarities to the Kushaq in the overall dynamics. This is expected to make it a practical yet enjoyable SUV for city driving and weekend getaways alike.
Price, Sales Target And Plans
Skoda seems to have an ambitious sales target with the Kylaq. It would be priced competitively, mostly in the 8-12 lakh, ex-showroom. It will then become the most affordable Skoda in India.