Skoda has lifted the curtain on its next major step in electrification: the Epiq, a compact electric SUV aimed at bringing zero-emission mobility to a wider audience. The car was first revealed as a near-production concept and will make its global debut in mid-2026. Positioned below the Enyaq and the upcoming Elroq, the Epiq will be the entry point into Skoda’s EV lineup, offering a blend of practicality, modern styling, and affordability.
Production and Market Role
The Epiq is part of the Volkswagen Group’s Electric Urban Car Family project, designed to make compact electric vehicles accessible. Skoda’s contribution will be manufactured in Pamplona, Spain (VW’s Navarra plant), alongside other VW and Cupra models.
The brand intends for the Epiq to rival small combustion SUVs like the Skoda Kamiq on price, ensuring customers can choose between petrol or electric without a significant cost barrier. Current estimates suggest pricing will start from around €25,000 in continental Europe and under £22,000 in the UK.
Summary Table
Feature |
Details |
---|---|
Launch Date |
Mid-2026 (global debut and production start) |
Segment |
Compact electric SUV, entry-level Skoda EV |
Platform |
VW Group MEB Entry platform |
Length |
Approx. 4.1 m |
Boot Space |
475 litres |
Seating |
5 passengers |
Range |
Up to 425 km (WLTP) |
Battery Options |
Base LFP pack, larger NMC (~58 kWh) available |
Power Output |
~155 kW (208 hp) |
Pricing |
Around €25,000 in Europe, under £22,000 in the UK |
Manufacturing Location |
Volkswagen Navarra plant, Pamplona, Spain |
Design Highlights |
Modern Solid design, Tech-Deck Face, T-shaped LED DRLs, minimalist exterior |
Interior Features |
Wireless charging, physical controls, Simply Clever storage solutions |
Official Website |
Exterior Design: Modern Solid Language
The Epiq will be the first production Skoda to fully adopt the Modern Solid design philosophy. This new aesthetic emphasizes clean surfaces, functional details, and a strong road presence.
Key Exterior Highlights:
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Tech-Deck Face: A closed front panel housing sensors and flanked by slim, T-shaped LED daytime running lights.
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Matte Finish with Contrasts: The concept car showcased a cashmere matte paint accented with darker elements and a robust grey spoiler.
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Strong Proportions: A pronounced shoulder line separates the glasshouse from the body, giving the SUV a muscular stance.
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Compact Dimensions: At just 4.1 metres long, the Epiq remains city-friendly while still practical.
Interior and Practicality
While Skoda has not revealed every production detail, the concept’s cabin philosophy points to minimalism blended with everyday usability.
Expected Interior Features:
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Wireless Smartphone Charging as standard.
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Physical Buttons and Haptic Scroll Wheels to complement digital screens, preventing driver distraction.
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Simply Clever Solutions, such as bag hooks, hidden storage, and luggage fasteners.
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Roomy Boot Space: Despite its compact exterior, the Epiq provides 475 litres of cargo capacity, among the best in its class.
The five-seat layout ensures that the Epiq can serve as a family car without compromise.
Performance and Range
The Epiq will use Volkswagen Group’s MEB Entry platform, already underpinning models like the VW ID.2 and Cupra Raval. This ensures proven technology while keeping costs competitive.
Technical Highlights:
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WLTP Range: Up to 425 km (264 miles), depending on battery configuration.
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Battery Options: The base model will likely feature an LFP battery for affordability, while higher trims could use a larger NMC pack (~58 kWh).
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Power Output: Around 155 kW (208 hp) is expected for the front-wheel-drive version.
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Charging: Rapid charging capability is expected, allowing convenient long-distance use.
These figures make the Epiq practical for both urban and suburban driving, while remaining competitive against rivals like the Peugeot e-2008 and Renault Megane E-Tech.
Pricing and Positioning
One of the most crucial aspects of the Epiq is its pricing strategy. Skoda has stated that the SUV will be positioned close to the Kamiq, which currently starts at approximately €25,330 in Germany. This approach makes the Epiq one of the most affordable electric SUVs on the European market.
With government incentives still available in several regions, the Epiq could undercut many rivals and attract first-time EV buyers who previously hesitated due to cost.
Strategic Importance
The Epiq is more than just another product launch. It represents:
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Democratisation of EVs: By offering a sub-€25,000 SUV, Skoda directly addresses one of the biggest hurdles to EV adoption: price.
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Expansion of EV Lineup: The Epiq will sit below the Elroq (compact SUV) and Enyaq (midsize SUV), giving Skoda a three-model electric SUV family.
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Contribution to VW Group Goals: The Volkswagen Group aims to lead the European market with affordable EVs by the late 2020s, and the Epiq is central to that mission.
FAQs
1. When will the Skoda Epiq be released?
A. The production model will debut in mid-2026, with customer deliveries expected soon after.
2. What is the range of the Epiq?
A. It can travel up to 425 km WLTP on a full charge, depending on the chosen battery.
3. How much storage space does it offer?
A. The Epiq has a 475-litre boot, making it highly practical for its size.
4. How affordable will it be?
A. Pricing is expected to start at around €25,000 in Europe, closely aligned with the Skoda Kamiq.
5. Where will the Epiq be built?
A. Production will take place at the Volkswagen Navarra plant in Spain.
6. What makes it stand out?
A. The Epiq is the first Skoda to fully adopt the Modern Solid design language, with minimalist styling, practical features, and strong proportions.
7. Who are its competitors?
A. Likely rivals include the Peugeot e-2008, Renault Megane E-Tech, and Volkswagen ID.2.
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