Martyn Collins finds Škoda’s first EV is spacious and easy to drive.  

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

SECTOR Large SUV PRICE £34,495-£42,900 CHARGING 7.2kW AC / 125 kW DC RANGE 256-331 MILES

First came Volkswagen’s ID.3 and ID.4, then more recently we’ve driven Audi’s offering in the form of the new Q4 e-tron. Now, we’ve got Škoda’s version of the Volkswagen Group’s MEB electric platform – in the form of the Enyaq iV – with possibly the sportiest, the Cupra Born, still to come.

Compared to the futuristic ID models, the Enyaq, alongside the Q4, could take the honours for looking the most conventional; very much an SUV in style, and feeling familiar to other Škoda models. The front is dominated by the large, sealed version of the family grille (which can be crystal-lit on 80 versions), with large and distinctive headlamp units stretching far over the front wheel arches. Most noticeable from the side is the sculpted bonnet, large, curvy windscreen, with plenty of surface detail along the flanks and large wing mirrors. The rear is perhaps more conventional, apart from the large rear roof spoiler. It’s a design that suits big wheels, and our test car sat well on optional 20-inchers.

Inside, like all its sister models, the Enyaq feels impressively spacious. Head and legroom, front and rear, are particularly impressive. There are six different Design Selections rather than traditional trims, which largely focus on the dashboard trim and colours. The tall driving position and seats are comfortable – although the tall shape and long nose compromises all-round visibility, so it’s annoying that our entry-level 60 version didn’t have a standard fit rear camera or front parking sensors. There is even a 585-litre boot, which can be extended to 1,710 litres with the rear seat folded. Like the exterior, the interior feels more conventional in design when compared to the Volkswagen – and better for it. The dashboard design feels familiar to other Škoda models, with a small screen displaying the speed and other car details and the largest ever infotainment screen fitted to Skoda at 13 inches and also easier to operate than the Volkswagen’s. However, it’s not totally fallible and there are still too many menu screens to work through.

We had the £34,495 60 version, but there are also 80 and Sportline 80 versions available to order. Our 60 model was powered by the smaller 62kWh battery and a 180hp motor, giving a 256-mile range. However, there’s also a more powerful 80 model with a larger 82kWh battery, 204hp and up to 331 miles of range, depending on version.

When it comes to recharging, the 62kWh battery is capable of DC charging at up to 7.2kW AC and 50kW DC, with 82kWh versions at up to 11kW AC and 125kW DC. Plus, the 77kWh battery can harvest 80% of charge in 38 minutes via 125kWh rapid DC charging. 100kWh charging is available as a £440 option on the 60.

On the road, the Enyaq feels willing and is best described as competent rather than fun to drive. It is a tidy handler thanks to the low centre of gravity with the batteries under the floor. The ride is comfortable too – despite the optional bigger wheels.

The Verdict
The Skoda Enyaq is far more conventional to drive than its sister Volkswagen ID cars – and much better for it.

The Lowdown
Key Fleet Model: Enyaq iV 60
Strengths: Range, spacious interior, good to drive, affordable
Weaknesses: Overcomplicated infotainment

Fleet World Star Rating
4/5