Skoda Evaluating CNG Option For Kylaq With 1-Litre Turbo Engine

Skoda is evaluating the compatibility of its 1-litre turbocharged petrol engine with CNG for its latest and most affordable SUV in India, the Kylaq. This engine currently powers the Kylaq with a choice of manual or automatic transmission and is the same unit used in the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq.

During a recent media interaction, Ashish Gupta, Brand Director at Skoda India, said that CNG is “definitely on the table but not at this stage.” He further clarified, 

“CNG is an interesting proposition. What we are evaluating right now in terms of CNG is compatibility of our turbo engines with it.”

Skoda has considered a CNG offering for some time, even before the Kylaq’s launch. Internally, there has been ongoing discussion about making CNG tech desirable without compromising the brand’s premium positioning.

Internationally, Skoda has offered CNG setups with turbo engines before, like in the Scala, Citigo, and Octavia. So if the Kylaq gets a CNG variant, it wouldn’t be a first for Skoda.

The Kylaq is currently available with the following engine and transmission options:

While most CNG cars in India are paired with manual transmissions to keep costs low, Skoda is likely to consider an automatic CNG variant as well. The brand has been vocal about wanting more customers to opt for the Kylaq automatic, and that could influence this decision.

Factory Fit Or Dealer Fit?

It’s not yet known whether Skoda will offer the CNG version as a factory-fitted option (like the Tata Nexon) or as a dealer-installed kit (similar to the Honda Amaze). The final offering may depend on how soon Skoda can adapt its locally made 1-litre TSI engine for CNG use.

If the setup works for the Kylaq, Skoda could also introduce it in the Slavia and Kushaq models later. Their larger boot space could help easily accommodate a CNG cylinder.

Skoda could also look at authorising certified third-party CNG installers, similar to what Nissan does for the Magnite. 

In Nissan’s case, the brand ties up with government-approved CNG kit suppliers, and installation is carried out at select dealerships while still maintaining warranty coverage. If Skoda follows this approach, it could help bring CNG options sooner without waiting for factory integration.

If Skoda introduces a CNG variant of the Kylaq, it will compete with sub-4m SUVs that already offer this eco-friendly option, such as Maruti Brezza (factory CNG), Tata Nexon (factory CNG with turbo), Maruti Fronx / Toyota Taisor, and Nissan Magnite / Renault Kiger (dealer-level kits).

At present, the Kylaq rivals the Kia Sonet, Kia Syros, Hyundai Venue, and Mahindra XUV 3XO. With a CNG variant, it would appeal to a more fuel-cost-conscious buyer segment while standing out with its turbocharged performance.