Škoda has been steadily building its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio, most notably with the successful Enyaq iV and Enyaq Coupé iV. But the Czech automaker is far from finished. Looking ahead, Škoda is set to democratize EV ownership even further with a wave of new electric models, and leading the charge into the compact segment is the highly anticipated Škoda Epiq. Unveiled as a design study, the Epiq promises to be Škoda’s smallest and most affordable electric SUV, aiming to combine urban practicality with the brand’s signature “Simply Clever” solutions and spaciousness.
As an automotive journalist, I’ve seen countless concepts that never quite make it to production with their initial flair. However, the Epiq, based on Škoda’s recent track record and the Volkswagen Group’s broader EV strategy, appears poised to make a real impact. Let’s delve into what we can truly expect from this potentially game-changing electric crossover.
Table of Contents
Design Language: Modern Solid Meets Compact Proportions
The Škoda Epiq is set to be the first production model to fully embody Škoda’s new “Modern Solid” design language. This aesthetic philosophy, previewed by the Vision 7S concept, emphasizes robust, functional, and authentic design elements.
From the initial design study, the Epiq showcases a clean, upright stance with strong, sculpted lines. Its face features a modern reinterpretation of the Škoda grille, dubbed the “Tech-Deck Face.” This glossy black panel houses essential electrical devices like radar sensors and the front camera, rather than traditional air intakes. It’s flanked by distinctive T-shaped LED daytime running lights, with the main headlamps positioned lower down, creating a striking visual signature. The overall impression is one of purposeful simplicity, without being bland.
At approximately 4.1 meters (161.4 inches) in length, the Epiq slots neatly into the subcompact SUV segment, making it an ideal choice for urban environments. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, Škoda promises an “epic” amount of interior space, a testament to clever packaging enabled by its dedicated EV platform. The rear features a robust bumper and T-shaped taillights, mirroring the front design, and bold Škoda lettering on the tailgate. Expect aerodynamic wheels and practical roof rails, along with subtle “Flashy Orange” accents on elements like the bumpers and roof rails that add a youthful, vibrant touch.
Performance and Range: Tailored for Urban and Beyond
Underneath its Modern Solid skin, the Škoda Epiq will be built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB Entry platform, a front-wheel-drive architecture specifically designed for smaller electric vehicles. This platform will also underpin other compact EVs from the VW Group, such as the Volkswagen ID.2all and the Cupra Raval.
Škoda has confirmed that the Epiq will offer a maximum electric range of more than 400 kilometers (over 248 miles) on the WLTP cycle. This impressive figure suggests the availability of a larger battery pack, likely around 56 kWh. There’s also talk of a smaller, more affordable 38 kWh battery option, which would naturally offer a shorter range but could bring the entry price down significantly.
While specific power figures are yet to be fully detailed for the Epiq, given its shared platform with the ID.2all, we can expect a motor producing around 226 PS (222 hp / 166 kW) in higher-spec versions. This should allow for a brisk 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in under 7 seconds, making it quite zippy for city driving and capable enough for highway excursions. The Epiq is expected to support DC fast charging, though exact speeds are yet to be revealed. More importantly, it will also support bidirectional charging, allowing the vehicle to feed excess electric energy back into a home or other appliances, transforming the car into a mobile power bank – a highly practical feature for energy management.
Interior Features and Simply Clever Solutions
Škoda’s “Simply Clever” philosophy is deeply embedded in its brand identity, and the Epiq is set to carry this torch into the electric era. The interior will prioritize minimalism, functionality, and the use of durable, practical, and sustainable materials.
Key interior highlights are expected to include:
- Dual-Screen Setup: A large, free-standing central infotainment display (potentially around 13 inches) will handle most controls, complemented by a smaller digital instrument cluster (around 5.3 inches) for essential driving information.
- Physical Buttons: Crucially, Škoda understands the importance of tactile feedback. The new two-spoke steering wheel will feature physical buttons and haptic scroll wheels, allowing drivers to control key functions without diverting their eyes from the road. This is a welcome departure from purely touch-based interfaces.
- Smart Storage: Expect a plethora of “Simply Clever” compartments, including an open storage area with a wireless mobile phone charger in the floating center console. The boot space is particularly impressive for its class, with an anticipated 490 liters of luggage capacity, along with practical features like bag hooks, cargo elements, and a hidden underfloor compartment.
- Digital Key: The mobile digital key functionality will enhance the user’s digital experience, allowing for a wide range of interactions via a smartphone.
The focus on spaciousness, clever storage, and user-friendly technology aims to make the Epiq a highly practical and comfortable daily driver for individuals and small families.
Pricing, Availability, and Market Position
The Škoda Epiq is poised to be a game-changer in terms of affordability. Škoda has indicated a target starting price of around €25,000 (approximately £21,300). This aggressive pricing aims to make electric mobility more accessible to a wider audience, directly challenging models like the Citroën e-C3 and potentially even future compact EVs from other brands.
Production of the Škoda Epiq is slated to commence in 2025, with its global market launch expected in 2026. It will be manufactured in Pamplona, Spain, as part of a Volkswagen Group collaboration, leveraging shared platforms and manufacturing efficiencies to keep costs down.
The Epiq is targeted at urban dwellers, first-time EV buyers, and those looking to downsize to a more manageable yet spacious electric vehicle. It’s a strategic move for Škoda to capture a significant share of the rapidly growing compact EV segment in Europe and beyond. For those looking to understand the broader landscape of future electric vehicles, insights into upcoming models such as the Rivian R3 & R3X offer a glimpse into the diverse future of EVs.
Pros and Cons of the Škoda Epiq EV SUV
Pros: The Škoda Epiq boasts a highly attractive and distinctive “Modern Solid” design that stands out in the compact SUV segment, offering a fresh aesthetic. Its expected starting price of around €25,000 makes it one of the most affordable electric SUVs on the horizon, significantly democratizing EV ownership. Despite its compact exterior, it promises impressive interior space and a substantial 490-liter boot, adhering to Škoda’s renowned practicality. The Epiq will offer a competitive electric range of over 400 km (WLTP) for higher battery variants, making it suitable for both city and longer journeys. The inclusion of bidirectional charging capability is a significant technological advantage, adding to its versatility. Physical buttons on the steering wheel ensure better ergonomics and safety for frequently used functions.
Cons: A significant drawback is the wait time, with its market launch not expected until 2026. While the price is competitive, it may still be out of reach for some budget-conscious buyers compared to entry-level ICE cars. The lack of detailed specifications regarding charging speeds and motor power for all variants means some uncertainty remains. As with all new models, particularly in the EV space, real-world efficiency and long-term battery degradation in various climates are yet to be fully proven. While Škoda’s “Simply Clever” features are appreciated, the reliance on a central touchscreen for many functions might still be a learning curve for some drivers.
Comparison with Key Rivals
The Škoda Epiq enters a rapidly expanding segment of affordable compact electric SUVs. Its main rivals will include:
- Citroën e-C3: This is arguably the Epiq’s most direct competitor in terms of pricing and segment. The e-C3 offers a compelling entry point into EV ownership, but the Epiq promises a more robust design, potentially better interior space, and the backing of the VW Group’s MEB Entry platform, which is designed from the ground up for EVs, potentially offering better dynamics and efficiency.
- BYD Atto 2 (Yuan Up): This upcoming compact EV from BYD is also targeting the affordable end of the market with competitive range and tech. The Epiq will go head-to-head with BYD’s aggressive pricing strategy and established battery technology.
- Volkswagen ID.2all and Cupra Raval: As platform siblings, these will share core components with the Epiq. The ID.2all will likely be more mainstream and conservative in design, while the Cupra Raval will be the sporty, performance-focused variant. The Epiq will position itself as the practical, spacious, and value-oriented choice among the three.
- Dacia Spring: While significantly smaller and more rudimentary, the Dacia Spring offers an even lower entry price. The Epiq will compete by offering a more substantial vehicle, superior range, and significantly better features and refinement.
Ultimately, the Škoda Epiq is positioning itself as a leader in value within the compact electric SUV space, offering a strong blend of practicality, modern design, and competitive electric performance. For more insights into how various electric models stack up, resources like Kelley Blue Book or Car and Driver provide detailed comparisons and specifications.
Conclusion: An Epic Future for Škoda Electrification
The Škoda Epiq EV SUV is shaping up to be a pivotal model for the Czech brand’s electrification strategy. By delivering a stylish, spacious, and technologically advanced electric vehicle at an incredibly competitive price point, Škoda is poised to make electric mobility genuinely accessible to a broader audience. Its “Modern Solid” design language is fresh and appealing, while its practical interior, impressive boot space, and expected over 400 km range solidify its credentials as a highly capable urban and suburban companion.
While we’ll have to wait until its official launch in 2026 to experience the production model firsthand, the Škoda Epiq promises to be more than just Škoda’s smallest electric car; it looks set to be an epic entry into the mainstream EV market, delivering on Škoda’s core values of practicality, smart solutions, and exceptional value. If you’re looking for an affordable, compact, and clever electric SUV, the Epiq should be firmly on your radar.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the estimated price of the Škoda Epiq EV SUV? A1: Škoda has announced that the Epiq EV SUV is expected to have a target starting price of around €25,000. This aggressive pricing aims to make it one of the most affordable electric SUVs in its segment when it launches.
Q2: When will the Škoda Epiq be available? A2: The Škoda Epiq is slated to enter production in 2025, with its official global market launch and availability expected in 2026. This means potential buyers will need to wait a little while before they can get their hands on one.
Q3: What is the expected range of the Škoda Epiq? A3: Škoda has stated that the Epiq EV SUV will offer a maximum electric range of over 400 kilometers (more than 248 miles) on the WLTP cycle for its larger battery pack option. A smaller battery variant is also anticipated, which would offer a shorter, but still practical, range.
Q4: How big is the Škoda Epiq EV SUV? A4: The Škoda Epiq measures approximately 4.1 meters (161.4 inches) in length. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, Škoda promises an exceptionally spacious interior and a large boot capacity of up to 490 liters, showcasing the brand’s expertise in clever packaging.
Q5: What platform is the Škoda Epiq built on? A5: The Škoda Epiq EV SUV will be built on the Volkswagen Group’s dedicated MEB Entry platform. This front-wheel-drive architecture is specifically designed for smaller electric vehicles and will also underpin other upcoming compact EVs within the VW Group, such as the Volkswagen ID.2all and Cupra Raval.
Q6: Will the Škoda Epiq have physical buttons in the interior? A6: Yes, despite featuring a large central touchscreen for infotainment, Škoda has confirmed that the Epiq’s new two-spoke steering wheel will incorporate physical buttons and haptic scroll wheels. This design choice aims to provide a more intuitive and safer user experience for controlling key functions while driving.
Q7: Does the Škoda Epiq support bidirectional charging? A7: Yes, Škoda has confirmed that the Epiq EV SUV will support bidirectional charging. This advanced feature allows the vehicle’s battery to not only receive power but also feed excess electric energy back into a home or other compatible appliances, effectively turning the car into a mobile energy storage unit.
Q8: What kind of design language does the Škoda Epiq feature? A8: The Škoda Epiq will be the first production model to fully incorporate Škoda’s new “Modern Solid” design language. This aesthetic emphasizes a robust, functional, and authentic look with clean lines, a distinctive “Tech-Deck Face” instead of a traditional grille, T-shaped LED lighting signatures, and strong, sculpted bodywork.
