Skoda Kylaq vs Mahindra XUV 3XO: Does Performance Matter More Than Space?

While the XUV 3XO impresses with its spacious cabin and modern-day features, the Kylaq makes a stronger case for those who prioritise performance and driving pleasure

The Skoda Kylaq, an all-new nameplate, has entered the competitive sub-4m SUV space with a clean European design and the well-loved turbo-petrol engine from the bigger Kushaq and Slavia. On the other hand, Mahindra has also boldly updated the XUV300 into the XUV 3XO in 2024 with more modern-day features, generous cabin space and a broad range of powertrains, including a diesel. So, between the two, which one fits your needs better? Let us find out by comparing them, starting with the prices.

All prices are ex-showroom, pan-India

Design

The Skoda Kylaq gets a clean and timeless design that feels naturally premium. At the front, it follows Skoda’s global design language with a wide black grille, sleek DRLs on top, and the main split LED headlights positioned lower on the bumper. The bonnet is upright and flat, giving the Kylaq a strong and bold face. 

From the side, it gets a traditional SUV shape and large 17-inch dual-tone alloy, while thick cladding under the doors adds a rugged touch. The rear design, however, might divide opinions. It gets large block-shaped LED tail lights connected by a black strip that looks cluttered considering the overall neat design of the Kylaq.

The Mahindra XUV 3XO takes a very different approach. The front is dominated by C-shaped LED DRLs that surround the modern-looking LED projector headlights. The upright nose, sharp body lines, and sculpted panels add to its assertive stance, making it stand out on the road.

That said, the front fascia might not appeal to everyone. The piano black grille, chrome accents, and a large blacked-out section on the bumper can make the design feel a bit busy. For buyers who prefer something cleaner or more traditional, this might be a point of hesitation.

Mahindra has, however, paid attention to the finer design details. Elements like the grille, lighting surrounds, and roof rails feature diamond-shaped patterns that add a layer of sophistication. 

From the side, it retains the familiar XUV300 shape, but the new 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and optional dual-tone roof add freshness to the design. The wheel arches are surrounded by rugged black cladding which get noticeable cutouts at the top that make the design feel unfinished, almost as if a styling element is missing. This could leave some buyers feeling that the overall design lacks cohesion.

The rear is the most eye-catching and visually pleasing part of the 3XO. The connected LED tail lights look premium, especially at night. 

All in all, while the 3XO will definitely turn more heads due to its aggressive design, we found that the Kylaq’s simpler and more elegant design will appeal to a broader set of buyers. 

Another detail worth mentioning is the key design. The Kylaq comes with a sleek key that has a gloss black top, chrome borders and buttons with a smooth finish. It also offers remote engine start. The XUV 3XO gets a more bulkier key with a rubbery finish that feels sturdy, but lacks sleekness of the Kylaq’s key. Both are functional, get similar controls, but the Kylaq’s key feels a bit more upmarket.

Boot Space

On paper, the Skoda Kylaq offers a significantly larger 446-litre boot compared to the XUV 3XO’s 364-litres, with both capacities measured up to the roof. But in real-world use, this difference feels even more pronounced.

The Kylaq can easily fit a full set of travel luggage, including a large, medium, and small suitcase, along with one or two backpacks. The XUV 3XO, however, cannot accommodate the large bag along with the others, which means you will have to plan your luggage arrangement more carefully. It also misses out on a parcel tray even in its top variant, which makes storing items neatly a bit more difficult.

Another noticeable difference is the loading height. The Kylaq has a lower boot lip, which makes it easier to lift and place heavy luggage. The XUV 3XO’s boot floor is higher, which might feel less convenient during regular use.

However, both SUVs are equally practical for carrying more items when needed because they also have 60:40 split-folding rear seats that increase luggage space when needed. They also get useful hooks in the boot to hang grocery bags or smaller items, helping keep the storage area organised and clutter-free.

Cabin

The XUV 3XO’s cabin feels more upmarket compared to the Skoda Kylaq, despite its polarising exterior design. Its dashboard is neat and well-organised, with a white lower half that gives the cabin a lighter, more airy feel.  The top half is black and covered with soft-touch leatherette padding with contrast white stitching. The doors also use the same leatherette material, which enhances the overall premiumness.

The sense of quality is increased by minor design elements like the glossy button finishes and frameless rearview mirror. Although the centre console and dashboard's gloss black surfaces are attractive, they are prone to fingerprints, dust, and scratches.  

The quality of buttons in the XUV 3XO is also impressive. They feel tactile and well-built, with no odd gaps or loose fitment. The cabin, in general, feels tightly put together with no visibly inconsistent panel gaps, adding to the sense of quality inside.

 

The Skoda Kylaq’s cabin does not have an airy feeling like the 3XO due to its prominently black cabin, but at the same time, it does not feel dull. The single-pane sunroof does let in some light, which prevents the passenger from feeling cramped.

Unlike 3XO, which gets white seats, the Kylaq comes with black leatherette seats that feel practical and are easier to maintain.

The Kylaq’s cabin feels more sober and functional, with different plastic elements used all across the dashboard. Some are hard, some are textures, and some have a smooth finish. It also has a more modern and sporty looking 2-spoke steering wheel that feels good to hold.  

However, the door pads feel plasticky to touch, due to the slim green plastic element which is a little flimsy, and even the silver detailing around the AC vents seems rather cheap. Still, there is some soft-touch padding on the door pads, steering wheel, gear knob, and armrest to add a premium touch. 

Overall, while the Kylaq’s cabin quality is acceptable, it lacks the polish and material richness that make the XUV 3XO feel a step above in terms of cabin experience.

Features And Safety

The Mahindra sub-4m SUV not only has a more upmarket cabin, but it also offers a better set of features compared to the Skoda Kylaq. Here is how the two rivals stack up:

The Mahindra XUV 3XO packs in a slightly bigger 10.25-inch infotainment system that has a crisp resolution and is easy to use because of big fonts and clearly marked menus. The interface feels modern, and transitions between menus are smooth, which makes daily usage effortless. The wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay also work seamlessly.

 

Audio quality also adds to the premium experience of the XUV 3XO. It gets a 7-speaker Harman Kardon system that sounds richer and more balanced than what you get with the Kylaq’s 6-speaker setup, especially at higher volumes. 

 

The digital driver’s display is similar in size to the touchscreen and offers the same sharp graphics. However, it does show noticeable lag while switching between menus, which can be a bit distracting when driving.

 

Comfort features are well thought out too. The segment-first dual-zone auto AC allows better climate control for front passengers, and the panoramic sunroof brings in a lot of light, making the cabin feel even more spacious and inviting. Its AC controls use physical buttons and knobs, which are easier to operate than touchscreen-only controls of the Kylaq. All of this comes together to make the 3XO’s feature package feel more modern and premium.

 

That said, the Skoda Kylaq is not far behind in terms of equipment. It gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen which is very responsive with good-looking graphics. However, it is not new-user friendly, and you’ll need some time to get used to it. Wireless smartphone connectivity is present and works without any noticeable lag.

 

Compared to the XUV 3XO’s larger 10.25-inch unit, the Kylaq’s 8-inch digital driver’s display is smaller on paper, but in everyday use, the difference is barely noticeable. It feels smoother to operate, with no visible lag and instant response when navigating through menus, unlike the 3XO's display.

 

It also packs in plenty of comfort features, including segment-first 6-way electrically adjustable front seats that help the driver find a comfortable position easily. The front seats are also ventilated, and the cooling works efficiently, making a noticeable difference during hot weather and adding to overall cabin comfort. In comparison, the 3XO does not get ventilated or electrically adjustable front seats, which limits the driver's overall comfort and adjustability. 

All in all, both sub-4m SUVs offer well-rounded feature sets, but the XUV 3XO’s package, especially with its segment-first panoramic sunroof and dual-zone auto AC, is likely to appeal to more buyers looking for extra comfort and a premium feel. But how do the safety suites of these rivals compare? Let us take a look.

In terms of overall safety, the Mahindra XUV 3XO and Skoda Kylaq are about equal because they both have excellent safety records. Bharat NCAP has given each SUV a 5-star rating, indicating strong crash protection. It is worth noting that the Kylaq did do slightly better with higher scores in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and Child Occupant Protection (COP), which helped it earn the segment-best safety ratings.

Both SUVs are fitted with six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), ISOFIX child seat anchorages, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), as well as rain-sensing wipers, a rear wiper and washer, and a rear defogger. There are adjustable headrests and 3-point seatbelts for all front and rear passengers.

When it comes to parking assistance, the Kylaq has rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. However, the camera feed is grainy, lags noticeably, and is not very bright in low light conditions. Also, this does not get dynamic guidelines, which feels like an unnecessary miss. 

The XUV 3XO improves on this by offering a 360-degree camera system, but its feed experiences frame drop, and it also lacks crispness, which can be distracting while parking. On the positive side, the 3XO includes a blind spot monitor displayed on the driver’s screen that works decently compared to the 360-degree camera system, and is helpful while changing lanes.

The XUV 3XO also features an electronic parking brake with auto hold, which adds convenience. It goes a step further with a Level 2 ADAS suite that uses both camera and radar inputs to improve accuracy and responsiveness. The system is tuned well for Indian road conditions, but like most ADAS setups, it needs clearly visible lane markings to function properly. Such a feature is not available in the Kylaq.

Practicality And Charging Options

When it comes to day-to-day practicality inside the cabin, both the Skoda Kylaq and Mahindra XUV 3XO are well equipped with useful storage spaces and charging options. For the front row passengers, both sub-4m SUVs offer two cupholders on the centre console, 1-litre bottle holders in the doors, a reasonably sized glovebox and wireless phone charging pads. Additionally, the Kylaq offers two Type-C ports, while the 3XO gets one USB-A, one USB-C, and a 12V socket, giving it slightly more flexibility when it comes to charging devices.

At the rear, both rivals offer rear centre armrest, AC vents and charging options for passengers. The Kylaq gets two Type-C ports along with a pair of phone and magazine holders on the front seat backs, and its rear door pockets can store 800ml bottles. In comparison, the 3XO offers a single Type-C port and a 12V socket, a slot below the AC vents to rest a phone, and magazine pockets on the seat backs. Its rear doors can store bigger 1-litre bottles and magazines.

Rear Seat Experience

Even though both are sub-compact SUVs, the Skoda Kylaq and Mahindra XUV 3XO offer a fairly comfortable rear seat experience, but in slightly different ways. The Kylaq has a nicely padded back seat that supports well overall. That said, its backrest is slightly more upright than the 3XO, but it does not impact comfort. However, due to its width, the seat does not have enough space for three passengers, and even though the middle passenger gets a dedicated headrest, the space here is limited.

Under-thigh support is better than in most sub-4 metre SUVs, and there is adequate knee room and generous headroom. Foot room is acceptable, though not as spacious as the XUV 3XO. The centre armrest is wide and comes with two cupholders. 

The XUV 3XO, in contrast, has more knee and headroom. Overall comfort is increased by the rear seat's improved recline angle. The flatter seat base and less prominent contours make it more suitable for seating three comfortably, but that reduces underthigh and overall side support. It also comes with a foldable centre armrest and two cupholders.

Engine And Performance

While the Skoda Kylaq is available with a single petrol engine option, the Mahindra XUV 3XO offers more variety with three engine choices, including a diesel. Here are the details:

*AT = Torque converter automatic transmission

^AMT = Automated manual transmission

We drove the Skoda Kylaq with a 6-speed manual, and the Mahindra XUV 3XO with its more powerful 130 PS turbo-petrol mated to a 6-speed automatic. Though both are turbo-petrols, they offer very different drive experiences. The 3XO's power delivery is smoother and more relaxed, whereas the Kylaq feels lively and engaging.

Out on the highway, the Kylaq truly comes into its own. Acceleration is strong and immediate, overtakes are quick, and the engine remains composed even at higher speeds. Combined with its planted highway stability, the Kylaq feels like a car built for long-distance travel with confidence and pace.

 

In city conditions, the Kylaq’s 1-litre turbo-petrol engine feels responsive and eager. There is no noticeable lag, but rather a progressive and enjoyable surge of power once the turbo spools up, making quick overtakes and gaps easy to handle. The manual gearbox is smooth and precise, adding to the overall engaging character. However, the clutch has a long travel and is slightly heavy, which can be tiring in bumper-to-bumper traffic. If you find yourself frequently navigating such slow-moving situations, this setup might demand a bit more effort.

For those who prefer ease over engagement, the Kylaq’s 6-speed torque converter automatic makes the experience a lot more relaxed. The shifts are timely and smooth, and there is no hesitation when you press the accelerator. Paddle shifters are also on offer for manual control when needed. The gearbox works seamlessly with the engine to keep the drive fuss-free in slow-moving traffic and responsive when the road opens up.

 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO, in contrast, is built to make urban driving as easy as possible, however, it does struggle sometimes. Its 130 PS TGDi engine feels smooth and refined from the moment you start it. The throttle response is gentle and well-calibrated, which suits city commutes perfectly. However, in bumper-to-bumper traffic, the 6-speed automatic can feel a bit slow to respond. It takes its own sweet time to shift gears, especially if you accelerate suddenly to close a gap. While it never feels jerky or uncomfortable, the lag between throttle input and gearbox response is noticeable and might make the drive feel slightly lethargic in crawling traffic.

The 3XO continues to impress on open roads too. The power delivery is consistent, and the engine feels unstressed even at triple-digit speeds. However, you do get a sudden surge of power once the turbo kicks in, and that can catch you by surprise. It may not have the urgency of the Kylaq when it comes to overtaking, but it does the job without any major drama. For those who prefer smooth, laid-back cruising over spirited driving, the 3XO fits the bill.

Mahindra also offers a 1.5-litre diesel engine option with the XUV 3XO. With 300 Nm of torque, it has strong low-end performance that makes city driving effortless and highway drives efficient. It is available with a 6-speed manual or an AMT, catering to both performance-focused and convenience-seeking buyers alike.

Ride Comfort

Both the Kylaq and XUV 3XO offer impressive ride quality, but in very different flavours. 

The Skoda Kylaq offers a confident and composed ride, particularly on highways. It remains planted over undulations and surface changes, with minimal vertical movement inside the cabin. This gives passengers a calm and stable experience even at higher speeds. Around corners too, the Kylaq feels lively and sharp, and limits any unnecessary side to side movement. Driving the Kylaq on twisty roads is quite joyful as its steering is sharp and predictable and body roll is well contained, as is typical of all the cars of the manufacturer.

The Kylaq’s suspension demonstrates good control on slightly broken roads or uneven urban surfaces. The overall setup feels firm but never uncomfortable. It rounds off sharper bumps and doesn’t crash into them or transmit harsh shocks into the cabin. While it may feel a little more connected to the road than a comfort-minded SUV, the firmness actually helps to keep things together, and the ride never feels stiff.

The Skoda Kylaq gets a slightly heavy steering, but it is not uncomfortable to operate in any manner at low speeds. One positive about the heaviness is that it lets the SUV feel very stable at high speeds. This set-up gives the Kylaq a planted and confident feel, something which is generally desired when you are driving on the highway.

The Mahindra XUV 3XO is engineered with maximum comfort in mind, and this is evident as soon as the road conditions become difficult. Potholes, speed bumps, very uneven sections of road are all handled easily, with little affecting the quality inside the cabin. Even when the surface is broken, the 3XO is capable of soaking the blow and settling down quickly. The suspension also operates quietly without any audible crash, which improves the sense of comfort.

The 3XO maintains a similar composure when driving on the highway and there is no float or bounce over mild undulations, which makes triple-digit speeds feel stable and effortless. Even though it is comfort-focused, it never feels uneasy or alarming at high speeds.

The steering in the XUV 3XO feels light at low speeds, which makes quick turns and tight manoeuvres effortless. As you pick up speed, it gains enough weight to inspire confidence and feels stable on the highway. While it is not as communicative as the Kylaq’s steering, it remains predictable and consistent, making high-speed cruising feel safe and relaxed. Around corners, though, the 3XO does show some noticeable body roll. It is not meant to be pushed hard through twisty roads, unlike the Kylaq, which feels far more composed and enjoyable in such scenarios. 

Overall, the 3XO concentrates on providing a smoother, more cushioned drive that will appeal to buyers seeking everyday comfort, while the Kylaq offers a slightly firmer but more engaging ride that enthusiasts will enjoy.

Verdict

Skoda Kylaq is the carmaker’s most affordable SUV that features a clean, minimalist design which is likely to appeal to a wider customer base. Among its strong points are its sorted driving dynamics and powerful turbo-petrol engine, which provide excellent grip and uniform confidence on all kinds of roads. So, if you want an elegant looking car which offers an enthusiast-focused driving experience without compromising much on features, space, comfort, and practicality, the Kylaq is the SUV to pick.

In contrast, the Mahindra XUV 3XO feels more modern and upmarket, right from its exterior to the layout and materials inside the cabin. Its spacious interior is complemented by a long list of modern-day features, making it especially appealing for families. So if a richer feature list and a spacious cabin are higher on your list, the 3XO will suit your needs better.