Skoda Kylaq Lineup Reworked: Why This Update Quietly Changes the Compact SUV Game

January 20, 2026

3 min read

Not every important update arrives with dramatic design changes or headline-grabbing launches. Sometimes, the most meaningful shifts happen quietly—through pricing, variants, and feature positioning. Skoda’s latest update to the Kylaq compact SUV is one such move.

Announced alongside the Kushaq facelift, Skoda has reworked the Kylaq’s entire variant structure, introduced two new trims, enhanced mid-spec variants, and subtly repositioned the model to better align with how Indian buyers actually shop for compact SUVs today.

This is not just a routine update. It is a strategic reset.

From 4 to 6 Variants: Why Skoda Changed the Kylaq Lineup

The compact SUV category in India is brutally competitive, driven by three core buyer demands:

  1. Affordable automatic options
  2. Feature-rich mid variants
  3. Clear value gaps between trims

Until now, the Kylaq struggled slightly on all three. Skoda has now addressed this head-on by expanding the lineup from four to six variants, reshuffling features, and tightening price overlaps.

The revised Kylaq range now includes:

  • Classic
  • Classic+ (NEW)
  • Signature
  • Signature+
  • Prestige
  • Prestige+ (NEW)

This change gives Skoda something it previously lacked: a variant for every meaningful buyer profile.

Skoda Kylaq New Variant line up and features on Carbae the new car buying platform

Classic+ Variant: The Real Story Behind This Launch

The new Kylaq Classic+ may look like a small addition on paper, but it is arguably the most important variant in the entire lineup.

Positioned just above the base Classic, the Classic+ introduces features that are rarely seen this low in the price band—such as an electric sunroof, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming IRVM, steering-mounted controls, and 16-inch wheels.

More importantly, it is offered with both manual and automatic gearboxes.

This single decision dramatically changes the Kylaq’s accessibility. With the Classic+ automatic priced at ₹9.25 lakh, the Kylaq now becomes one of the most approachable turbo-petrol automatic SUVs in its class, undercutting its earlier automatic entry point by roughly ₹85,000.

For urban buyers prioritising convenience over outright features, this variant quietly becomes the new sweet spot.

Signature and Signature+: Mid Variants Finally Make Sense

Another long-standing issue with the Kylaq range was the value jump between mid and top trims. Skoda has now narrowed that gap by upgrading the Signature and Signature+ variants with features previously reserved for the Prestige trim.

These updates include a sunroof, rear wiper and washer, automatic wipers, and paddle shifters on automatic variants. Prices have increased slightly, but the value proposition is now far clearer.

For buyers who want a balanced mix of comfort, safety, and driving involvement—without paying top-variant prices—the Signature range now feels far more complete.

Prestige vs Prestige+: A Clean Top-End Split

Instead of pushing prices higher, Skoda has taken a more nuanced approach at the top end.

The earlier Prestige variant has been repositioned slightly by removing the 6-way powered front seats, while the new Prestige+ takes over as the fully loaded option, bringing powered and ventilated seats back into the lineup.

Crucially, the Kylaq still tops out at ₹12.99 lakh, meaning buyers now get a clearer choice between “almost top-spec” and “fully loaded” without crossing into a new price bracket.

This kind of transparent top-end differentiation is rare—and welcome.

Sportline Coming Soon: Keeping Enthusiasts Interested

Skoda has also confirmed a Kylaq Sportline variant slated for launch by September. While details are limited, the intent is clear: inject a sportier visual identity into the range without altering the mechanical package.

In a segment where emotional appeal increasingly matters, this ensures the Kylaq stays relevant beyond pure value-driven buyers.

What This Update Really Means for Buyers

Viewed individually, these changes may appear incremental. Viewed together, they represent a fundamental recalibration of the Kylaq’s positioning.

  • Automatic buyers now have a lower entry point
  • Mid-variant buyers get meaningful features without overpaying
  • Top-end buyers get clear justification for the premium
  • Enthusiasts have something to wait for

This is Skoda listening to buyer behaviour—and responding with structure, not noise.

The Bigger Picture: Why Variant Clarity Matters More Than Ever

In today’s compact SUV market, buyers are no longer chasing just the lowest price or the longest feature list. They want clarity, confidence, and value alignment.

Skoda’s Kylaq update doesn’t shout for attention—but it fixes the exact friction points that often derail purchase decisions. And that is precisely why this update matters.

For buyers navigating multiple trims, prices, and gearbox choices, understanding which variant truly fits their needs can make the difference between a good deal and a great one