The Skoda Kylaq has set a new standard for safety in the compact SUV segment by earning a coveted 5-star rating in the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP). With stellar scores in both adult and child occupant protection, the Kylaq has outperformed all its ICE-powered compact SUV rivals, including popular models like the Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300.
Top Safety Scores
In BNCAP’s rigorous crash tests, the Kylaq secured 30.88 out of 32 points in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and 45 out of 49 points in Child Occupant Protection (COP). These scores make it the best-performing ICE-powered sub-four-metre SUV in the Indian market so far.
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP):
- Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test: Scored 15.04/16. Protection for the driver’s head, neck, and right leg was rated as “good,” while the chest area was rated “adequate.” The front passenger received “good” protection for all critical areas.
- Side Movable Deformable Barrier Test: Achieved 15.84/16, showcasing excellent protection for the head and lower back, with “adequate” protection for the upper back.
- Side Pole Impact Test: Rated as “good,” highlighting the vehicle’s robust side-impact protection.
Child Occupant Protection (COP):
- Dynamic Test: Achieved a perfect score of 24/24. Both the 18-month-old and 3-year-old dummies were tested using rearward-facing child seats.
- CRS Installation Assessment: Scored 12/12, affirming the vehicle’s compatibility with child restraint systems.
- Vehicle Assessment Score: 9/13.
Comprehensive Safety Features
The Kylaq’s robust safety credentials are bolstered by an impressive array of standard features across all variants:
- Six airbags: Including frontal, side head curtain, and side thorax airbags.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Ensures optimal vehicle control.
- ISOFIX Anchors: For secure child seat installation on rear outboard seats.
- Seatbelt Reminders: Standard for all passengers.
- Pedestrian Protection Compliance: Meets AIS-100 norms.
Unlike some of its competitors, the Kylaq does not offer Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), even in its higher trims. However, its performance in crash tests and safety-focused design more than compensate for the lack of ADAS.
Tested Variant and Applicability
BNCAP tested the Kylaq Prestige variant with a manual transmission, but the ratings apply to the entire lineup, which includes the Classic, Signature, and Signature+ trims. Apart from the entry-level Classic variant, all trims offer an automatic transmission option.
A New Benchmark in Safety
The Skoda Kylaq’s stellar performance underscores its commitment to passenger safety, offering a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing safety in the compact SUV segment. By surpassing its rivals in BNCAP ratings, it solidifies its position as a leader in safety and sets a new benchmark for the segment.
If you’re considering a compact SUV with top-notch safety credentials, the Skoda Kylaq deserves your attention.
