While Skoda might have been slow to delve into the world of electrification, it’s quickly developing its range of alternatively-fuelled models.
Thanks to the new ‘iV’ range – reserved for these electrified variants – we’ve already seen a plug-in hybrid version of the Superb and an all-electric Citigo. Later this year there will also be numerous hybrid versions of the all-new Octavia, including the first electrified sporty vRS model.
But also in the pipeline is Skoda’s first bespoke model – the Enyaq. Here’s what to expect.
It’s going to be Skoda's first electrified SUV
Skoda has given few official details about its first standalone EV, but what we do know is its name – the Enyaq. Following in the pattern of the Kamiq, Karoq and Kodiaq, this new model will be an SUV – shown by the ‘Q’ at the end of the name.
While Audi was the first in the Volkswagen Group to produce an all-electric SUV with its e-tron, Skoda will be ahead of Seat and Volkswagen itself to bring a high-riding EV to market. It will importantly also be the brand's first electrified SUV.
It’s underpinned by Volkswagen’s MEB platform
Ever since Skoda became part of the Volkswagen Group in the 1990s it has benefitted hugely from being able to use the organisation’s resources – including its platforms.
This will be true of the Enyaq as well, which will be underpinned by a new ‘MEB’ platform, which is bespoke to pure-electric models. This platform will underpin just about all bespoke VW Group EVs going forward.
Two bodystyles will be available
Skoda has confirmed that the Enyaq will be available in two different bodystyles. The Czech firm will follow a similar path to the Audi e-tron, which is available as a regular SUV and a coupe-like ‘Sportback’ variant – the latter sacrificing some spaciousness in the name of style.
The ‘coupe’ variant will be heavily inspired by the Vision iV concept, which was shown at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. That car was said to be close to production.
It will debut at the start of next year
Skoda was set to unveil the Enyaq in May, though this will have now been pushed back because of the ongoing coronavirus crisis. While we’re not sure just when it will be revealed in full, the model is set to arrive in showrooms by the end of the first quarter in 2021. The coupe variant will follow several months later in the summer months.
A powerful 82kWh battery pack is set to be offered
The same powertrain on the Vision iV is rumoured to be featuring on the flagship Enyaq variant. With an electric motor producing 302bhp, it will be the firm’s most powerful road car from the factory to date. Its large 82kWh battery is also set to be able to manage a range of 310 miles, which will be the longest of any should this powertrain materialise.
A more affordable and less powerful option is also likely to be offered – just as it is with the Volkswagen ID.3.