Skoda Enyaq iV review

Pros: design and space, refinement, good range

Cons: standard equipment, no seven-seat option

The Enyaq iV is the first fully electric model from Skoda to go on sale in Ireland. Even though it uses the same platform as the Volkswagen ID.4 and forthcoming Audi Q4 e-tron, it has a unique design, and an interior to match.

Skoda Enyaq iV Design

Some may question the SUV tag applied to the Skoda Enyaq iV due to its rear-wheel-drive setup and low ground clearance. Still, regardless of those aspects, it is an attractive and modern design and is clearly different from the Volkswagen ID.4 that uses the same underpinnings. Black panelling around the bumpers and sills gives the impression of it sitting a little taller, but in terms of overall size, it roughly slots in between the Skoda Karoq and Kodiaq.

All versions feature 19-inch alloy wheels from the factory with the option to upgrade to 20- or 21-inch rims. Skoda also offers lighting upgrades, including LED matrix headlights with a dynamic high-beam function and a visual upgrade called the ‘Crystal Face’ that adds an illuminated grille design to the front.

Skoda Enyaq iV Interior

Whatever technical similarities there may be between the Enyaq iV and the ID.4, they are quickly forgotten once you sit inside the Skoda. Its layout and design are a good blend of form and function, typical of the Czech brand in many ways. In no way does it appear cheap either; the quality of the materials throughout are good.

The two-spoke steering wheel carries the usual multifunction controls. There’s a smaller-than-usual 5.3-inch digital instrument display, too. Skoda offers an augmented reality head-up display (for an additional €955) that projects a larger image of dynamic navigation prompts and lane-keeping aids before your eyes. More impressively, Skoda equips the Enyaq iV with a massive 13-inch touchscreen display that’s great to use and includes the latest smartphone connectivity. However, one of the more positive aspects is that Skoda hasn’t bundled everything into the touchscreen, so there are still physical buttons for many functions.

The interior is spacious and roughly on par with what you’ll find in the Skoda Kodiaq, though without the third row of seats. Headroom and legroom are unlikely to draw any complaint from rear passengers and the Skoda still manages a decent 585 litres of boot capacity.

Skoda Enyaq iV Performance & Drive

There are two battery and motor options currently available for the Enyaq iV, starting with a 58kWh model that Skoda badges as the 60. This version is the entry point to the range and can drive up to 412 kilometres per charge. A rear-mounted 180hp motor drives the rear wheels via a single-speed automatic transmission.

The Enyaq iV 80 gets a 77kWh battery that is good for up to 535 kilometres between charges. It also receives a rear motor and rear-wheel-drive setup, but has a higher power output of 204hp. However, despite the additional power, the outright performance of both models is almost identical due to the increased weight of the Enyaq iV 80’s larger battery. So really, it boils down to how much range you need.

Either way, the power delivery is wonderfully smooth, so the Skoda never lacks refinement at speed. Furthermore, there is little wind or road noise as you drive along.

Skoda Enyaq iV Pricing

Skoda Enyaq iV 60 pricing starts at €37,465 (inclusive of applicable grants) and rises to €44,712 for the larger capacity ’80’ battery version. The standard equipment levels in both models are reasonably good and include items like that larger touchscreen, keyless start and cruise control. Nonetheless, you’ll have to upgrade to the 80 to get front parking sensors and a reversing camera as standard.

Buyers can also choose between five different interior designs: Loft, Lodge, Lounge, Eco-Suite, and Suite. The Loft specification is standard, while the rest are priced at €676, €1,463, €2,026 and €1,687, respectively.

Carzone Verdict: 4/5

Whether as a family car or for someone that wants to have a roomy electric SUV, the Skoda Enyaq iV does a superb job of combining a polished driving experience and spacious cabin with good boot space and all the latest modern conveniences. It makes for a great first electric effort from the brand.