In the search for the best automatic car under 12 lakh, buyers are prioritizing advanced engine technology, robust performance, high safety standards, and value-rich features. Enter the Skoda Kylaq Signature AT, a new benchmark in the compact SUV segment. Blending a turbocharged petrol engine with a premium feature-list rarely seen at this price, the Kylaq Signature AT emerges as a segment leader for those who seek a dynamic, practical, and well-built automatic car.
Why the Focus Is on Skoda Kylaq Signature AT
With the Indian compact SUV market crowded by options like the Tata Nexon, Mahindra 3XO, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Brezza, the Kylaq Signature AT sets itself apart in two significant ways:
- It offers a technologically superior turbocharged GDI petrol engine where most rivals settle for traditional MPi or non-GDI powertrains.
- It delivers a complete feature set, safety, and premium build—all within a sub-12 lakh price point.
This distinction makes the Kylaq Signature AT a favourite among drivers who want that extra punch of performance and a truly modern ownership experience.
Skoda Kylaq Signature AT: Engine Specs and Performance
| Specification | Skoda Kylaq Signature AT |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.0L TSI Turbo GDI Petrol |
| Displacement | 999 cc |
| Max Power | 114bhp @ 5000–5500rpm |
| Max Torque | 178Nm @ 1750–4000rpm |
| Gearbox/Transmission | 6-speed Automatic (Torque Converter) |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 19.05 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45L |
| Price (ex-showroom) | ₹10.95 lakh |
| Ground Clearance | 189 mm |
Why does this matter?
- The GDI turbo engine gives strong low-end torque for city driving and lively acceleration on highways, uncommon among rivals running MPi or basic NA engines at this price.
- The 6-speed torque converter AT ensures smooth gearshifts, nicer refinement, and durability, compared to some rivals’ AMT or iMT options.
Also Read: Skoda Auto India Achieves Record H1 2025 sales
Value-for-Money Features
The Kylaq Signature AT is loaded with features that exceed the norm for the best automatic car under 12 lakh:
- Rear AC Vents
- Multi-function Steering Wheel
- Cruise Control
- Cooled Glovebox
- Touchscreen Infotainment (with Bluetooth, USB)
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Alloy Wheels (16-inch)
- Keyless Entry
- Tilt & Telescopic Steering Adjustment
- Front and Rear Power Windows
- Comprehensive safety: Dual front airbags, ABS, ESC, and tyre pressure monitoring
Interior, Comfort & Space
| Feature | Skoda Kylaq Signature AT |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Boot Space | 446L (expandable to 1,265L with folding) |
| Upholstery | Premium Fabric |
| Cabin Feel | Well-built, Euro-inspired |
The Kylaq stands out for a spacious cabin with good headroom and shoulder room. It’s ideal for families and long drives, with rear passengers enjoying dedicated AC vents and multiple storage spaces.
Segment Comparison: Skoda Kylaq Signature AT vs the Competition
| Model (AT Version) | Engine Type | Power (bhp) | Torque (Nm) | Gearbox | Turbo/GDI | Starting Price (AT) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kylaq Signature AT | 1.0L Turbo GDI | 114 | 178 | 6-AT TC | Yes | ₹10.95L | Turbo engine, premium Euro build |
| Tata Nexon Pure+ AMT | 1.2L Turbo MPi | 120 | 170 | 6-AMT | No | ₹10.70L | 7″ Touchscreen, 7 airbags (top variants) |
| Mahindra 3XO MX2 Pro AT | 1.2L Turbo GDI | 110 | 200 | 6-AT TC | No | ₹10.54L | Turbo, big torque, strong safety |
| Kia Sonet HTX DCT | 1.0L Turbo GDI | 118 | 172 | 7-DCT | Yes | ₹12.74L | Sunroof, high tech |
| Maruti Brezza VXi AT | 1.5L K15C NA | 103 | 137 | 6-AT TC | No | ₹11.45L | Mild hybrid, efficient, loaded features |
Key Takeaways:
- Only Kylaq, Mahindra 3XO, and Kia Sonet offer a turbo GDI with AT in the segment. Both Sonet DCT and Mahindra 3XO are priced much above the Kylaq’s price.
- Most rivals below ₹11L (Brezza, Nexon lower trims) provide non-GDI or NA engines, resulting in less enthusiastic performance, especially with full loads or on highways.
- Kylaq Signature AT offers a rare balance of performance, driving refinement, and Euro build—under ₹11L.
What Segment Buyers Want in 2025
- Turbocharged/Responsive engines for lively city and highway use.
- Smooth automatic gearboxes (torque converter or DCT) for hassle-free driving.
- High safety standards: Airbags, ESC, sturdy structure.
- Connected features: Touchscreen, Bluetooth, rear camera, keyless entry.
- Comfort and practicality: Spacious boot, rear AC, cooled storage, quality materials.
- Brand trust and support: Expanding service network is critical. Skoda now boasts one of the fastest-growing dealer touchpoints, making initial Kylaq sale numbers a real achievement.
Also Read: Top 10 Sub-Compact SUVs Sold in June 2025 in India
Skoda Kylaq Signature AT: Why It’s the Best Automatic Car Under 12 Lakh
- Engine Tech: Only a handful of automatics in this price offer a direct-injection turbo petrol, giving Kylaq higher performance and punchier mid-range.
- Transmission: A true 6-speed torque converter offers better refinement than AMT rivals and is more robust in the long run.
- Features: At this price, the list is impressive—most rivals need more budget or upgrades to match.
- Build Quality and Dynamics: Known for European solidity and mature suspension, it’s one of the safest and most fun-to-drive compact SUVs in this bracket.
- After-Sales Support: With Skoda’s improved service presence, buying a Kylaq is now a practical decision for maintenance and ownership satisfaction.
Conclusion
For customers who crave more than just city runabouts, the Skoda Kylaq Signature AT confidently claims its spot as the best automatic car under 12 lakh in 2025. It’s a blend of real performance, thoughtful features, mature safety, and practical value, making it perfect for both first-time and upgrade buyers seeking the “next level” experience in the compact SUV segment. As dealerships multiply and ownership support grows, the Kylaq Signature AT is positioned as the smart, future-ready choice for discerning Indian drivers.