Volkswagen-owned Czech-carmaker Skoda Auto India has announced the name of its upcoming all-new compact SUV, which will be called the Kylaq. 

The name has been selected through a unique campaign initiated in February 2024. Skoda Auto India invited users and customers to come up with their suggestions for the upcoming compact SUV, which will mark its global debut in 2025. 

Through the ‘Name Your Skoda’ campaign participants suggested names for the compact SUV that begin with the letter ‘K’ and ends with the letter ‘Q’ with one or two syllables. This was in line with Skoda’s tradition of naming their ICE SUVs. The campaign saw over 200,000 entries with over 24,000 unique names.

In the next phase, participants cast their vote for the choice among 15 shortlisted names. Basis the number of votes, from the 15 shortlisted names, 10 names were announced by Skoda Auto India. From the list, the winning name, which received the most votes and met all legal compliance criteria, was chosen for the all-new compact SUV. Kylaq is derived from the Sanskrit word for crystal, reflecting both the vehicle’s pristine qualities and inspiration from Mount Kailash.

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said: “Our new compact SUV Kylaq is for the people of India. We wanted them to be part of every milestone of our biggest-ever launch in the country. The ‘Name Your Skoda’ campaign aimed at inculcating a sense of pride and belonging among participants and potential customers. The results are humbling with over 200,000 entries. It reinforces our legacy in India and showcases the great affinity people have towards the brand Skoda. The naming process of a car is important for us. And this upcoming all-new compact SUV represents the ultimate milestone within the fastest-growing and biggest segment in India. With the Kylaq, people, customers and fans have themselves named our newest family member, which is developed jointly by the teams in India and Europe, and will be locally manufactured.”

The winner of this naming contest will be the first owner of the Skoda Kylaq when it hits roads in 2025, lending them the unique opportunity of owning a car they named. Another 10 winners will visit Skoda Auto in Prague with a tour of the Skoda Museum and of the city. 

Kylaq

The all-new Kylaq is Skoda Auto India’s first-ever foray into the compact SUV segment. It is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the same as the one of the Kushaq SUV and the Slavia sedan. The MQB-A0-IN was specifically developed for India by teams in India and the Czech Republic with an eye on versatility, safety, dynamics while focussing on localisation, low maintenance costs and a hassle-free ownership experience.

The Kylaq will be the company’s first implementation of the Modern Solid design language in India. It will also have a high ground clearance and space around the wheel for tackling uneven road surfaces lending the car that SUV character. The upcoming SUV will also feature a hexagon pattern on the side and rear of the car. At present, it is undergoing rigorous testing across India and the company is preparing for production with local supplier ramp-ups. Based on a larger car platform, the compact SUV will have the ‘big car’ feel within a compact footprint.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced its highest-ever CAPEX of INR 75 billion — its highest ever —to fund a product offensive and manufacturing upgrades in FY2027.

The company also plans to introduce two brand new SUVs, including a localised electric SUV in the compact segment and an ICE SUV in the mass market segment. Interestingly, the South Korean automotive major has forecasted a 8-10 percent growth in sales across domestic and export markets for FY2027.

In FY2026, Hyundai Motor India saw its profit after tax decline by 4 percent to INR 54,315 million, as against INR 56,402 million a year ago. The revenue came at INR 707,633 million, up 2 percent, as against INR 691,929 million, EBITDA at INR 85,985 million, as against INR 89,538 million a year ago.

Despite a dip in profit after tax in FY2026 and commodity price pressures that impacted Q4 margins by 120 basis points, the leadership has issued a margin guidance of 11-14 percent for FY2027. Hyundai Motor India management noted that approximately half of the Q4 margin impact was a one-off occurrence. To counter unstable commodity costs, a calibrated price increase is scheduled for May 2026.

Tarun Garg, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, “FY2026 was a year where we demonstrated our ability to effectively navigate a challenging environment. Looking ahead to FY2027, we have started the year on a strong footing. We expect this positive momentum to continue, backed by new product launches in high-demand segments.”

He further expressed confidence in a domestic volume growth target of 8-10 percent for the coming year. This outlook is supported by a strong start in April 2026, which saw domestic volumes grow by 17 percent.

The company expects that shifting the production of the Venue to the Pune plant will allow the Chennai facility to maximise capacity utilisation for these upcoming launches.

The CAPEX roadmap allocates nearly half of the funds to new product development, with 30 percent dedicated to plant infrastructure. This includes the Phase 2 expansion of the Pune facility and the modernisation of the Chennai plant. By FY2027, the Pune plant is expected to reach a capacity of 250,000 units, contributing to a group-wide goal of 1.14 million units by 2030.

The upcoming dedicated, localised electric vehicle in the compact SUV category, marking a significant step towards increasing its EV penetration, which stood at 2 percent in FY2026.

Furthermore, Hyundai Motor India is positioning itself as a primary global export hub for Hyundai Motor Company. The company’s target of 8-10 percent growth in export volumes, specifically leveraging its status as the exclusive global manufacturer for the Exter SUV. Future plans include the introduction of Left-Hand Drive (LHD) variants of the Exter and Verna for international markets.

The company also confirmed its commitment to meeting CAFE 3 standards through a diversified powertrain mix, including its CNG portfolio, which reached a record 18 percent contribution in the final quarter of FY2026.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has marked its 30th Foundation Day today.

Established on 6 May 1996, the South Korean automaker has sold 13.5 million units to date, which includes 9.6 million vehicles sold in India and 3.9 million units exported to 150 countries.

Since its inception, Hyundai Motor India has invested around INR 4,070 billion in its Indian operations. The company has outlined a plan to invest an additional INR 4,500 billion between FY2026 and FY2030. This investment will focus on manufacturing, electrification and the introduction of 26 products and variants by 2030.

Tarun Garg, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, "Hyundai Motor India’s 30-year journey is defined by trust earned over time and the pride of our teams delivering consistently for customers across India. It is also marked by Progress - our collective contribution to advancing the mobility journey of India. We are proud to have served over 13.5 million customers since inception - including 9.6 million+ in India and 3.9 million+ exported to 150 countries across the globe - a testament to India’s role at the heart of Hyundai’s global success. As we celebrate this milestone, we look ahead with youthful energy and unwavering commitment, shaping mobility for India and the world. Guided by our global vision of Progress for Humanity, we remain deeply connected to India’s aspirations, driving innovation, sustainability and shared prosperity for generations to come."

The automaker operates manufacturing facilities in Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Talegaon, Pune, with a combined capacity to produce around 994,000 units per annum, with plans to reach 1.07 million units per annum by 2028. Hyundai Motor India is currently the largest cumulative exporter of passenger vehicles from India.

In India, the automaker has established a robust sales network of 1,500 outlets across 1,100 cities, covering 78 percent of the country’s districts. The service network includes 1,675 touchpoints and 162 mobile service vans. It employs 50,000 professionals across its dealerships. Digital systems are used for 91 percent of repair orders and 632 workshops offer live streaming of vehicle services.

Hyundai Motor India has achieved the RE100 benchmark, with all offices and plants powered by renewable energy. At the Chennai plant, 80 percent of water requirements are met through rainwater harvesting and recycling. The facility also maintains zero liquid discharge.

Through the Hyundai Motor India Foundation, the company has invested over INR 8.03 billion in social initiatives since 2014. These programmes include the planting of 1.29 million trees and the support of 2,300 schools. The company provides 15,000 to 18,000 direct jobs and supports approximately 350,000 to 450,000 indirect roles through its suppliers and partners.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Skoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has appointed Ashutosh Dixit as its new Brand Director for Porsche India, effective immediately. He succeeds Manolito Vujicic, who is leaving the Volkswagen Group to pursue other opportunities.

Dixit brings over 28 years of automotive industry experience to the role, with nearly 20 years spent within the Volkswagen Group. His career includes leadership roles across India, China and Europe, focusing on strategy, sales operations and brand development. Most recently, he served as Market Development Director at the Porsche Middle East and Africa regional office. In his previous regional position, he was instrumental in shaping initiatives specifically for the Indian market.

The appointment comes as SAVWIPL continues to focus on strengthening internal Indian talent and expanding its presence in the domestic luxury segment.

In his new role, Dixit will be responsible for guiding Porsche India into its next phase of market presence and performance. Building stronger relationships with customers and achieving new milestones in the dynamic Indian market. Continue to nurture the progress made under previous leadership while maintaining a focus on sustainable growth and innovation.

Piyush Arora, MD and CEO, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, “We are delighted to welcome Ashutosh Dixit as the new Brand Director of Porsche India, who will further bolster the leadership team in India. Ashutosh is a familiar face within the Volkswagen Group, with his understanding of markets, customers, and the brand making him well-suited to lead Porsche India. I’m confident he will build on the progress Porsche has made in India and continue to strengthen the brand's presence. This appointment is a testament to our unwavering focus on strengthening internal talent from within India.”

Dr. Manfred Braunl, CEO, Porsche Middle East and Africa, added, “Ashutosh brings a deep understanding of both the Porsche brand and the Indian market to this role. His leadership experience across regions and functions makes him exceptionally well-positioned to guide Porsche India into its next phase.  India continues to be an important market for us, and we are confident that under his leadership, the brand will further strengthen its presence and performance.”

Jan Bures, Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Digital, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, added, “Ashutosh’s appointment marks an exciting chapter for Porsche in India. His proven ability to navigate diverse markets and lead with vision makes him the right person to drive our journey forward. India is a dynamic and strategic market for us, and with Ashutosh at the helm, we look forward to building stronger connections with our customers and achieving new milestones.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

BMW Group India has introduced the all-new BMW M440i xDrive Convertible as a completely built-up (CBU) unit, priced at an ex-showroom rate of INR 10.9 million.

The premium model combines a classic soft-top silhouette with modern performance and engineering, featuring a panel bow soft-top roof that can be operated at speeds up to 50 kmph. The electric mechanism completes the opening or closing process in 18 seconds, offering a blend of open-air driving and refined design.

Under the bonnet, the convertible is powered by a B58 inline 3-litre 6-cylinder engine equipped with a 48V mild hybrid setup for improved efficiency and performance. This powertrain produces 374 hp and 500 Nm of maximum torque, enabling the car to accelerate from zero to 100 kmph from a standstill in a claimed 4.9 seconds.

The M440i xDrive Convertible comes with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission and intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology to maintain traction and stability. Precision handling is further supported by standard features such as adaptive M suspension, an M Sport differential and M Sport brakes.

The exterior design is highlighted by a vertically arranged BMW kidney grille in high-gloss black and adaptive LED headlights with a black tint. The rear of the car features CSL-style taillights with an intricate woven laser pattern and an M rear diffuser. The car sits on 19-inch M light-alloy wheels and is available in eight different colours, including Portimao Blue, Fire Red and Cape York Green, with additional customisation options available for a bespoke finish.

Inside, the cabin features the BMW Curved Display, which houses a 14.9-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital information display. The interior is finished with a luxury instrument panel, sports seats with electric adjustments, and an M leather steering wheel with standard gearshift paddles. For entertainment, the vehicle is equipped with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system. Technological features include the latest BMW Operating System 8.5, a head-up display and the MyBMW app for remote services and digital key functionality.

The sedan is also equipped with a wide range of safety and driver assistance systems. The Parking Assistant includes a 360-degree surround view, while the Reversing Assistant helps navigate narrow driveways by taking over steering for the last 50 metres driven. Safety technologies include six airbags, attentiveness assistance, and dynamic stability control.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President, BMW Group India, said, “The all-new BMW M440i xDrive Convertible exemplifies BMW’s passion for combining exhilarating performance with timeless elegance. With its unmistakable design, powerful M tuned performance and refined open top driving experience, it delivers a new expression of sporting freedom. At BMW Group India, we are proud to introduce a convertible that not only excites behind the wheel, but also represents a distinctive, aspirational lifestyle for our customers.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!