Introduction
You only need to look at the number of EVs available on the market today to see how popular these models are becoming. And though Skoda might have sold its battery-powered Citigo-e iV briefly in 2020, the firm’s been lacking a true long-distance and practical electric car.
That’s until now when the firm launches its new Enyaq iV, which is the first Skoda to be underpinned by Volkswagen Group’s dedicated MEB platform, which is also the foundation for the Volkswagen ID.4 and Audi Q4 e-tron. It means the Enyaq can accommodate a range of powertrain options, and allows greater flexibility in the interior.
That’s especially important here, as Skoda is a brand well-known for its cars’ space and versatility. But can the Enyaq impress in all areas? Let’s get behind the wheel.
Performance
Skoda offers the choice of two powertrains – the 60 and 80. It kicks off with the 60, which uses a 58kWh battery combined with a 177bhp electric motor – enabling a range of 256 miles.
Our test car is the more impressive 80, though, which uses a 77kWh electric motor combined with an electric motor producing 201bhp. In terms of performance, the Enyaq can reach 0-60mph in eight seconds and maxes out at 99mph.
But it’s the range that impresses here, with Skoda claiming 311 miles on a single charge. As standard it comes with 50kW rapid charging capability, though if you’re regularly doing longer trips it’s worth upgrading to the 125kW option for £440 – something which really should be included as standard. With this, it means a 10 to 80 per cent charge will take just 38 minutes, while plugging in at home with a 7.4kWh wallbox will take 13 hours for a full charge.
Ride and handling
One of the most impressive things about the Enyaq is just how ‘normal’ it feels – certainly a good thing here as this Skoda will likely be many of its customers’ first EVs. Like all electric cars, the pace away from the line is impressive, though at higher speeds you can feel the extra.
The Enyaq is also an impressive long-distance cruiser, with very little road and wind noise and impressive refinement. The large 21-inch alloy wheels did equate to a rather choppy low-speed ride, though, so if you value maximum comfort it’s worth choosing a model with a smaller set of alloy wheels.
Interior and equipment
As with the rest of the Skoda range, the Enyaq really majors on practicality and user-friendliness. The 585-litre boot is huge, while the cabin is brimmed with cubby holes for all your odds and ends. The lack of transmission tunnel also frees up further space in the rear, too, and means that it’s a seriously complete family car.
The quality throughout is excellent, too, while neat multi-coloured LED interior lighting helps give the cabin a really futuristic look. All versions als feature a larger 13-inch touchscreen as standard, though we’d argue that Skoda has worked just a few too many functions into it, and it would be better if a few physical controls remained.
The Enyaq comes as standard with an impressive level of standard equipment, with all versions benefitting from 19-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control and the aforementioned touchscreen.
Buyers can then choose from various ‘design selections’, which offer a range of pre-configured interior looks and colours to enable greater personalisation. Our car used the Ecosuite option, which brought beautifully trimmed brown leather seats and additional chrome accents.
Cost
Prices for the entry-level Enyaq actually sneaks just under £35,000, which means it qualifies for the government’s electric car grant, bringing the price down to £31,995. At that price, it represents great value for money, though it should be noted that it’s only the ‘60’ version that is eligible for this funding.
The ‘80’ model starts from £39,350, which – though significantly more money – still feels like good value when you consider the long range and generous standard equipment levels.
Verdict
The Enyaq is a true Skoda and we mean that in the best possible way. It manages to carry over this brand’s best strength – versatility and value – into the electric era, and this battery-powered SUV would be a fantastic first EV.
With its long electric range, impressive refinement and general high-quality, it’s a seriously likeable electric car, and one that should prove to be a big hit with buyers.
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