Skoda Enyaq iV electric SUV unveiled

KUALA LUMPUR: After a number of design sketches and teasers, Skoda has finally pulled the wraps off its all-electric SUV, the Enyaq iV. This is the Czech brand’s first model designed to be purely electric and houses the same MEB platform as the soon-to-be-unveiled Volkswagen ID.4. However, it is the second electric Skoda model, first being the Citigo-e iV.

The design philosophy of Skoda Enyaq iV takes a crossover approach and flaunts the familiar Skoda-ness with a tinge of modernism. Upfront, there is an illuminated grille with a crystal face flanked by matrix LED headlamps incorporating LED DRLs. The light-up grille carries 130 LEDs in the performance RS variant and the limited-run Founders Edition. 

At the rear, the Enyaq iV sports LED tail lamps, the signature ‘SKODA’ script on the trunk lid, and similar angular brake lights. The lower edge of the rear bumper and side skirts come in silver, black, or body-colored plastic trim depending on the variant.

The Skoda Enyaq iV’s cabin does not look radically different from other Skoda SUVs. It gets a minimalist dashboard inspired by Skoda’s butterfly grille, a 13-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, a sleek two-spoke steering wheel, and aircraft-style toggle switches under the AC vents. The Enyaq iV uses various recycled materials for the interior trim. Seat upholstery of select variants is made out of a 40 percent wool blended with polyester derived from recycled PET bottles. The automaker offers a number of customization options to the customers through predefined packages.

Other noteworthy bits of the Enyaq iV include an augmented reality head-up display, climate control, cruise control, and connected car technology. On the safety front, the SUV is fitted with 9 airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors, and collision avoidance assist.

Skoda offers a wide range of variants; the three variants - 50, 60, 80 are rear-wheel drive with a single electric motor in the rear axle, whereas the top two - 80X and vRS are all-wheel drive with a second electric motor on the front axle. All the variants come with varying battery pack options generating power outputs ranging from 148 PS to 305 PS. The WLTP claimed driving range lies between 340 km and 460 km, depending on the variant. The fastest in the bunch is Enyaq iV vRS, which can run 0-100 kmph in 6.2 seconds.

To celebrate the brand’s 125 anniversary, Skoda will also offer an exclusive Enyaq iV Founders Edition, whose production is limited to 1,895 units. 

Skoda is now accepting preorders for the Enyaq iV in the UK, with deliveries expected to start next year.

Also read: VW ID 4 electric SUV enters production in Germany