Skoda Auto India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has taken the wraps of the all-new Skoda Kylaq, the company’s third model developed locally for the Indian market. With prices starting at INR 789,000, this is the most affordable Skoda car currently available in the market.

This also marks the Czech brand’s first model in the popular sub-4-metre segment, which at present accounts for nearly 50 percent of sales in the Indian car market. The Kylaq C-SUV is the first model in India to feature Skoda’s new Modern Solid design language.

Klaus Zellmer, CEO, Skoda Auto, said, “The Skoda Kylaq is our first sub-4-metre SUV, designed in India and for India as a new entry point to our brand. India is key to our internationalisation plans, the world’s third-largest car market, and SUVs make up 50 percent of new vehicle sales. We want the Kylaq to welcome new customers who are looking in this popular and fast-growing segment. Adding to its appeal, the Kylaq marks the debut in India of our Modern Solid design language, with new visual accents.”

The Kylaq features 189mm of ground clearance, is 3,995mm long, 1,783mm wide and is 1,619mm tall with a 2,566mm wheelbase.

The 1.0 TSI engine produces 178Nm of torque and delivers 85 kW of power. The compact SUV can be had with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. It has a claimed top speed of 188kmph and can go from zero to 100kph in 10.5 seconds.

Johannes Neft, Skoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development, said, “The Skoda Kylaq is our third offering based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, developed by our teams in India with comprehensive support by our colleagues in the Czech Republic for Indian customers. From the outset, this platform was designed to accommodate a sub-4-metre car like the Kylaq. This SUV is built on four key pillars: comfort, quality, global design language, and safety. That’s why the Kylaq has been rigorously tested across varied terrains, altitudes, and weather conditions. It will lead our presence in India’s fastest-growing and most competitive segment.”

The Kylaq gets over 25 active and passive safety features as standard including six airbags, multi-collision brake, roll over protection, motor slip regulation, electronic differential lock, XDS+, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, and electronic stability control, among others. Select variants come equipped with over 35 safety features, such as cornering lights, automatic headlights and wipers, Hill Hold Control, and tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

In terms of space, the five-seater compact SUV has 446 litres of storage, which can be expanded to 1,265 litres with the rear seats folded.

On the inside, it features 10.1-inch infotainment display, which gets Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with wireless charging support. The driver also gets a 8-inch digital cockpit that provides plenty of information.

Skoda India claims that the Kylaq has been tested for more than 800,000km of Indian terrain, including altitude test, temperature test and rigorous weather and water testing.

Piyush Arora, MD and CEO, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, “Today is another important milestone in our India journey with the World Premiere of the Skoda Kylaq. Kylaq has generated tremendous excitement and buzz through 2024. And I’m extremely proud to unveil the Skoda Kylaq to India and to the world. With its high levels of localisation, unmatched driving dynamics and uncompromising safety, Kylaq will make a significant impact in the market.”

Oliver Stefani, Head of Skoda Design, said, “With the new Kylaq, our Skoda Design team has preserved and re-interpreted key Skoda design elements, combining them with new ideas and visual accents. It is one of the hallmarks of our new Modern Solid design language, ushering in a new era for design in a car that ushers in a New Era for us in India. Modern solid stands for solidity, functionality and authenticity while conveying a sense of safety and strength. The Skoda Kylaq, with its distinctive shape, minimalist and clean looks and functional features like a high ground clearance is a perfect embodiment of our new design approach to customers in India.”

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, shared, “The Kylaq has literally hit the ground running and is going to be powering our growth in India over the next few years. It is the beginning of a new era for us in India. We are aware we are entering what is currently the most competitive segment in India. And are confident the Kylaq has what it takes to make an impact with its safety and driving dynamics. Moreover, the Kylaq boasts some segment-leading features like a six-way front electric seat adjustment with seat ventilation, and a class-leading 446 litres of boot space. The Kylaq continues with our India-focussed product line-up following the Kushaq and Slavia and will further our goal of entering newer markets and bringing new customers into the Skoda family. We believe we have stuck to our promise of accessible pricing of the Kylaq and look forward to ensure it democratises European technology in India. It is a compact car but is larger than life. And that’s the reason we premiere it via a motion picture premiere like never before.”

Tata Motors, one of India’s leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has launched the limited Stealth Edition for its Harrier and Safari SUVs.

Marking 27 years of the Tata Safari, the Stealth Edition will be limited to just 2,700 units for both the vehicles. They feature all Matte Black finish, R19 Black Alloy Wheels and a Stealth mascot. On the inside, the first- and second-row ventilated seats get Carbon-Noir Theme (2nd row only in Safari) and voice-assisted dual-zone automatic climate control system.

A 31.24 cm Harman Touchscreen Infotainment System, Arcade App Store for entertainment, Alexa Home 2 Car for remote connect, Inbuilt Map my India for navigation, a 26.03 cm Digital Instrument Cluster and JBL 10-speaker audio system with Harman AudioworX, Sliding Arm-rest and Sprinkler Nozzle are on the offer too.

They continue to be powered by the Kryotec 2.0-litre BS6 Phase 2 Turbocharged Engine, delivering 170PS through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Stealth Edition features Level 2+ ADAS with 21 functionalities including Intelligent Speed Assist feature (first time in segment), 7 airbags and ESP with 17 safety functions.

The Harrier Stealth edition can be had with price starting INR 2.50 million (ex-showroom Delhi), while the Safari Stealth edition (6- and 7-seater) is priced at INR 2.57 million (ex-showroom Delhi).

Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “Tata Motors has long been at the forefront of the SUV segment in India, with innovation deeply embedded in its DNA. The Tata Safari, which introduced the concept of a lifestyle SUV to the Indian market, stands as a testament to this spirit of pioneering excellence. With 27 years of unbeatable legacy, the Tata Safari has continually evolved, and the launch of the Stealth Edition is a salute to the same. This special edition is a premium, exclusive release, with only 2,700 units of the enigmatic Stealth Matte Black finish being made available. The STEALTH Edition is more than just an SUV — it's a statement of prestige, adventure, and capability, elevating it to an aspirational collector’s car that will be coveted by enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Owning a Stealth Edition isn’t just about possessing an exceptional car; it's about securing a piece of automotive history that everyone will aspire to have in their garage.’’

Kia India, a leading passenger vehicles manufacturer, has unveiled the refreshed 2025 Seltos SUV with prices starting INR 1.11 million (ex-showroom India).

The company has also introduced eight new variants across the Smartstream G1.5 and D1.5 CRDi VGT engine options. This means customers can now choose between 24 trims across different variants.

The HTE(O) variant, priced at INR 1.11 million, includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, a 6-speaker audio system and a steering wheel with audio controls. It also features a rearview mirror, a connected tail lamp similar to the HTK design, DRL/PSTN LED lamps, a rear combi LED and an auto-control headlamp for optimal lighting. All-door illuminated power windows further add convenience.

The HTK(O) variant, starting at INR 1.29 million, includes a panoramic sunroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, a roof rail and a rear wiper with washer & defogger. It also comes with cruise control, all-door illuminated power windows, a mood lamp with sound integration and a smart key with a motion sensor.

The HTK+(O) variant, priced at INR 1.43 million, comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and an EPB IVT with the Zbara Cover AT. It features MFR LED headlamps with a turn signal LED sequence, LED fog lamps, a black radiator grille, auto-fold ORVMs and a parcel tray. Other additions include a chrome belt line, an artificial leather knob, a mood lamp, and a smart key with a motion sensor.

Hardeep Singh Brar, Sr. VP and National Head, Sales and Marketing, Kia India, said, "Kia began its journey in India with the Seltos, which has played a key role in establishing the brand. The Seltos continues to be the largest contributor to our overall sales due to the value it delivers to customers. We are committed to continually updating the model to meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers. With the addition of new variants for the Smartstream G1.5 engine, we are offering even greater value. These new variants will further boast a strong demand”.

Skoda Auto India, a leading passenger vehicles manufacturer, aims to make smarter inroads in the country’s fast-growing passenger vehicles segment.

The company recently introduced the Skoda Kylaq, its first-ever sub-4-metre SUV, which is expected to bring incremental volumes for the Czech automaker in India. And now to further drive and popularise the company’s product offerings, it has signed its first-ever 'brand superstar'  – popular Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh – in the country. 

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “When the Kylaq was premiered, I promised that, ‘Picture abhi baaki hai’. As we celebrate 25 years in India, we have committed to driving into a new era here, which goes beyond launching world-class products. It revolves around revamping every aspect of the business, including the way we engage with our customers and fans. Around the world, and more so in India, cars and movies generate emotions that are unparalleled and bring people together. And so for the first time in our history in India, I am proud to announce Ranveer Singh as the first-ever ‘Brand Superstar’ for Skoda Auto India. Being a powerhouse of talent and energy, on and off-screen, Ranveer‘s persona strongly reflects our passion and ethos. This announcement comes at a time when we are celebrating 130 years of global excellence. There is a lot more this partnership is going to bring for our products, our network and our customers, as we look to strengthen our position as the most important market for Skoda outside Europe.”

Skoda Auto India has released the first poster featuring Ranveer Singh along with Petr Janeba and the Kylaq SUV. It also plans to launch a brand-centric film by end-March, which will provide an opportunity to fans and customers to meet Ranveer Singh and the management of Skoda Auto India later in the year.

“I am thrilled to be Skoda Auto India’s first-ever brand superstar. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to excellence, and I look forward to contributing to the growth of Skoda Auto in India. Skoda Auto has a diverse and exciting product portfolio that caters to both automotive enthusiasts and a wider customer base in India’s growing market. With a strong legacy and an iconic range of products, the brand continues to set high standards in the automotive industry,” said Ranveer Singh.

Skoda Auto considers India its most important market outside Europe. It also plans to sell 100,000 cars annually by 2026. Furthermore, it aims to expand its sales and service touchpoints to 350 by end-2025 from the present 277.

Also read: Skoda Auto India Showcases Kylaq, Kodiaq, Superb and More at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

Yokohama India has started manufacturing 20-inch tyres at its production facility in Bahadurgarh, Haryana. This action was taken in response to the increased demand for tyres with a wider tread, which was fuelled by the growing popularity of SUVs and the luxury market.

Following its recent decision to localise the manufacture of 19-inch tyres, Yokohama India has expanded, demonstrating its continued dedication to producing top-notch goods. High-performance tyres like the Geolandar X-CV (G057), made for luxury SUVs, are among the high-end tyre options in this category. With its sophisticated silica compounds, asymmetric tread pattern and two-ply sidewall, the X-CV offers improved grip, durability and a smooth driving experience. It may now be purchased through the vast countrywide network of more than 3,000 merchants operated by Yokohama India.

Gaurav Mahajan, Head of Marketing at Yokohama India, said, “With improving road infrastructure and advancement in vehicle geometry, passenger segment vehicles are now opting for larger-inch tyres. Higher inch tyres also offer better handling and safety as they could accommodate advance braking systems. By expanding our local production capabilities, we are future-proofing our offerings – now with the capability to manufacture up to 24-inch tyres – ensuring that we continue to serve the premium segment with cutting-edge, high-performance products.”