As competition for all-electric models intensifies, Škoda is entering the fierce competition with its Enyaq iV. Sharing the same MEB platform as the Volkswagen ID.4, the Enyaq iV shares similarities with its rival, but the models should not be confused with each other.

Škoda, known for its large interior space, also offers a sense of spaciousness with the Enyaq iV. One of the best aspects is the large passenger compartments, and above all the 585-litre boot, which is around 40 litres larger than the ID.4. The large tailgate helps to load the very clearly shaped boot.

Despite its angular and large-feeling shape, the Enyaq iV is just over 4.6 metres long. The design language is modern and contemporary, but the familiar angular Škoda. However, the large stature and sharply angular design doesn’t seem to be an air resistance factor killer, as at its lowest point the Enyaq iV has an air resistance factor of up to 0.257, ensuring the lowest possible electricity consumption.

The turning radius of the agile rear-wheel-drive Enyaq iV is less than 10 metres, which helps in the city’s narrow alleys.

Start with rear-wheel drive only

The Enyaq iV Launch Edition, which are rear-wheel drive models, will be launched. Battery options include 58 kWh and 77 kWh net capacity versions. The Enyaq iV model versions are named after the battery capacity, so the first model versions are the Enyaq iV 60 and Enyaq iV 80. The WLTP operating ranges for the models are 400 and 520 km.

The rear-wheel drive models have electric motors with a power output of 180 horsepower for the model with the smaller battery and 204 horsepower for the larger battery. Both have a maximum torque of 310 Nm.

Later this year, the four-wheel drive Enyaq iV 80x will also be available, with a combined engine output of 265 hp and 425 Nm of torque. Škoda promises a WLTP-compliant range of up to 460 km.

An RS power version is also due later, but the initial power figures for the RS are nowhere near the top of the current market with an acceleration time of 6.2 seconds from zero to 60 km/h.

Based on a short test drive, the Enyaq iV seems to be even more electric than the ID.4. The test car was a model with a larger battery. In urban driving, consumption ranged between 16 and 21 kWh/100 km, which in practice allows a minimum range of 370-480 km, so it is by no means impossible to achieve a WLTP rating.

Targets set high

Škoda has high sales targets for the Enyaq iV from the very first year. In Finland, the target is to sell more than 1000 cars in the first year. This is a tough target, given the already fierce competition and the supply of different brands. The first customers will receive their cars as early as May.

The Enyaq iV’s strengths in the competition are definitely the large spaces, which allow the car to be used as a great family car. And the body design will not leave the Finnish Škoda people cold.

The press test cars on the Czech plates were fully loaded with equipment, and this is certainly reflected in the price tag. The impression of quality in terms of materials was quite high in the cabin, but Skoda could have been much bolder in the interior design. The dull and dated interior design did not live up to the expectations that the new car created with its exterior appearance.

More surprising than the interior design is Skoda’s policy on charging options and speeds. As standard, the car only comes with a Mode 3 charging cable and the Enyaq iV can receive a maximum of 50 kW of direct current from the fast charger.

See here for other Skoda test drives.

The optional equipment list includes a universal charger that plugs into a standard socket for temporary charging at a hefty price of €750. The fast-charging capability can be increased to 100 or 125 kilowatts, depending on the battery size, for an extra €575.

One would hope that these would come as standard in the car, if Škoda wants to make the electric car experience as easy and flexible as possible. However, the good driving feel, large spaces and initially low electricity consumption are not affected.

Starting prices for the Enyaq 60 Launch Edition iV and Enyaq 80 Launch Edition iV are €44 157 and €49 319 respectively.