Skoda Epiq revealed as sub-£25,000 city SUV

Skoda has revealed plans for a new all-electric compact SUV called the Epiq, which will cost around £22,000 when it goes on sale next year.

The Skoda Epiq is the second of six new EVs coming from the Czech brand in coming years, following the Elroq, which will launch later this year.

Skoda says the Epiq will offer up to 249 miles of range and cost “around 25,000” (£21,350).

There is no word on the Epiq’s powertrain but it will be based on the same MEB Small platform as the forthcoming VW ID.2All and Cupra Raval and built alongside them in Pamplona, Spain. Both of those have been revealed to be using a 223bhp front-mounted motor, so the Eqip is likely to follow suit. Skoda also confirmed that the Epiq will support bidirectional charging.

At 4.1 metres long, the Epiq is around the same size as a Skoda Fabia but Skoda says it will offer space for five people and up to 490 litres of luggage space.

Announcing the car’s name, Skoda also released a digital design study giving strong hints as to how the car will look. Using the same ‘Modern Solid’ design philosophy as the much larger Vision 7S from 2022, the Epiq is a squat, squared-off model with hints of Skoda’s existing SUV line-up.

Like the Vision 7S, the Epiq features Skoda’s Tech-Deck Face which hides devices like the distance radar and the front camera behind a glossy black fascia. T-shaped LED running lights sit either side of this, with the Matrix LED headlights mounted below them. Robust front and rear bumpers give a more rugged appearance but Skoda is clear that the Epiq is designed largely for urban motoring.

Oliver Stefani, head of Skoda Design, said: “Our new design language – Modern Solid – represents the next level of modernity. Smart functionality and practicality are harmoniously balanced by attractive new looks and our sustainability approach. The Skoda Epiq design study perfectly embodies all the key attributes of the new design language.”

The interior will have a focus on durable, practical and sustainable materials and bring the Modern Solid approach to the car’s cabin. A two-spoke steering wheel features Skoda’s new brand lettering as well as physical buttons and haptic scroll wheels with Flashy Orange accents. A free-floating centre console features an open storage compartment with wireless phone charging and Skoda says there will be a host of ‘Simply Clever’ compartments for even more storage options. Like the Enyaq, there’s a slimline digital instrument display and a large central touchscreen.

The boot also benefits from some of the brand’s trademark features such as bag hooks, cargo elements, fastening hooks and a hidden underfloor compartment.

Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Skoda Auto, commented: “The coming Skoda Epiq will package a lot of car for an attractive price and a big interior with a compact size. Our customers want choices, which is why we are expanding our growing e-mobility portfolio into this popular segment. I hope these first design teasers demonstrate that the Epiq will shine because of its modern design, everyday range and user-friendly technologies – all of it affordable.”