Challenging the Top-ranked Player
Skoda opened a new front by launching the Kylaq SUV earlier this year. It’s Skoda’s entry into the competitive sub-4 compact SUV segment, a place that the Czech automaker is desperate to take a plunge in pursuit of achieving volumes in India. While the segment has volume potential, it is also very competitive, with as many as 10 players fighting for market share. One of the biggest rivals for the Kylaq is the Maruti Fronx, currently one of the most successful cars in the segment. How do they stack up against each other?
Level Playing Field
In our comparison, we are looking at the top-spec models, which in this case is the Alpha AT Turbo (dual-tone) for the Fronx and Prestige AT for the Kylaq. Feature-wise, both cars are evenly matched, and here is a complete list:
- Touchscreen infotainment system with wireless phone mirroring
- Climate control with rear AC vents
- Connected car technology
- Full LED light package
The Separating Factors
The Kylaq gets a digital instrument cluster, a powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, and a sunroof as a part of the package. The Fronx on the other hand, gets a 360-degree camera package and an HUD, something that the Kylaq doesn't.
Engine Talk
Both cars are offered with 1.0-litre, turbo petrol engines. In the case of the Fronx, the engine produces 99bhp and 147Nm, and can be had with either a five-speed MT or a six-speed AT. The Kylaq’s 1.0-litre, turbo petrol motor produces 114bhp and 178Nm, and can be had with either a six-speed MT or a six-speed AT. The Fronx’s 1.2-litre NA petrol can also be had with CNG power where the engine produces 76bhp/95Nm, but is not available in this top-spec trim that we are looking at in this story. Skoda currently does not have CNG for the Kylaq but is open to getting the technology to India if it gets sufficient demand.
Model | Fronx | Kylaq |
Power | 99bhp | 114bhp |
Torque | 147Nm | 178Nm |
Transmission | Five-speed MT/Six-speed AT | Six-speed MT/Six-speed AT |
CNG | Yes | No |
Pricing and Conclusion
In this top-spec trim, the Kylaq commands a premium of Rs. 1.36 lakh over the equivalent Fronx, but gets more features, bigger boot, and a more powerful engine. The Fronx might be on the back foot when it comes to features, but has CNG power and Maruti backing in terms of sales and service. When writing this story, the Fronx Alpha 1.0 AT dual-tone was priced at Rs. 13.04 lakh, while the Skoda Kylaq was priced at Rs. 14.40 lakh (all ex-showroom).
