Fun fact: The base model is able to ride on 18-inch steel wheels.
Skoda’s first ever electric SUV has finally arrived after a long teaser campaign. The family-oriented EV, which is a sister model to the Volkswagen ID.4 model, is the first to be built on the MEB platform exclusively for zero-emission vehicles. The company’s second electric vehicle, the Citigo e iV, is it a family-oriented EV that aims to capitalise on the crossover boom.
The Enyaq iV’s design isn’t surprising considering the previous week’s images. However, we were surprised to see an illuminated grille. The light-up grille is standard on the performance RS edition and the limited-run Founders Edition. It has 130 LEDs. This follows the 2019 Vision iV design, which was used to preview the production model.
The sporty Enyaq RS iV is the ultimate Skoda. It boasts dual electric motors that produce 302 horsepower (225 kilowatts) as well as 460 Newton-meters (335 pound-feet), of power and instant torque. It can go from 0 to 60 mph (100 km/h), in just 6.2 seconds, and speeds up to 112 mph (181 km/h).
The Skoda Enyaq is available with either rear- or all-wheel drive. There are five power outputs: 146 hp. 177 hp. 201 hp. 261 hp. 302 hp. The range of the Skoda Enyaq varies depending on whether the battery pack is RWD or AWD. However, even the base model can travel 211 mi (340 km) between charges. The single-motor, rear drive Enyaq V with the 82-kWh lithium-ion battery pack will provide the best range. It can travel up to 317 miles (510 kilometers) per WLTP.
Skoda went beyond installing a large battery to achieve this generous range. Skoda’s SUV has a sleek design that corresponds to a low drag coefficient (0.07) and low rolling resistance tires which also aid in efficiency. A heat pump is an optional option that reduces the energy required by the AC to improve range.
The fastest-charging capability of up to 125kW can quickly recharge the largest of the three batteries when you run out of juice. An AC wallbox with up to 11kW can “fill” the battery in between 6-8 hours, depending on its size.
The entry-level model has 18-inch steel wheels. This is a rare find in today’s SUV market. All other Enyaq iV models come with alloys up to 21 inches and are available in a wide range of colors and designs. To commemorate the company’s founding 125 years ago, the fancy Founders Edition has the largest wheels and a variety of cosmetic enhancements.
The dashboard design is very similar to that found in the new Octavia and Scala. However, the Enyaq iV’s 13-inch touchscreen is unique. Skoda’s first electric SUV features a head-up display that incorporates augmented reality tech. It also supports remote-controlled parking. The standard features include LED taillights and headlights, while matrix LED headlights can be purchased at an additional charge.
A Skoda would not be complete without a large selection of Simply Clever goodies. The Enyaq iV has many neat features. The electric SUV is equipped with everything you need, from an electrically retractable trailer bar to umbrellas at the front doors. An electrically operated tailgate allows for access to a false trunk floor that can be adjusted for more cargo space. The ice scraper inside the tailgate features a built in tire tread depth gauge.
Skoda has begun accepting preorders for Enyaq iV models in all trims, but deliveries to customers of the Founders Edition in honor of Vaclav Laurin (founder) won’t begin until 2021.