Launched in late 2024, the Skoda Kylaq is currently the brand’s top-selling model in the Indian market. The sub-4 metre SUV crossed 50,000 sales mark within its first year, helping Skoda to achieve its best-ever annual sales in 2025. The Kylaq has been favoured for its driving dynamics, premium interior, modern design and aggressive pricing.

In the highly-competitive subcompact SUV segment, the Skoda Kylaq takes on the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite. The competition is set to intensify with the arrival several new models along with the generational upgrades of some of its existing rivals. The next-generation Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet are expected to debut in 2027 with significant design changes and feature enhancements.

New 2027 Tata Nexon

Codenamed ‘Garud’ project, the 2027 Tata Nexon is expected to witness major structural and design updates. The SUV might switch to a new platform or a heavily modified version of the existing architecture. Similar to the current generation, the all-new lineup will continue to offer multiple powertrain options including petrol, diesel, CNG and electric.

However, the reports suggest that the existing 1.5L diesel engine could be discontinued due to the upcoming BS7 emission norms. Upgrading the engine to meet the stricter emission standards would require the addition of an expensive Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system.

New 2027 Kia Sonet

Codenamed QY2E, the 2027 Kia Sonet is likely to be built on the brand’s new K1 platform, which also underpins the Syros SUV. The platform features the brand’s latest electrical and electronics (E&E) architecture, enabling technologies such as remote diagnostics and OTA (Over-The-Air) updates. It will also help Kia to increase the SUV’s wheelbase and address the issue of limited rear seat space of the current generation model.

The second-generation Sonet is expected to retain the existing engine and gearbox combinations. According to reports, Kia India will introduce the all-new Sonet with a strong hybrid powertrain in 2028 or 2029. The hybrid technology could give it an edge over its key rivals.