Skoda Elroq: the first driving impressions of the all-new all-electric compact SUV
Before the launch of the Skoda Elroq, I drove this covered car through Amsterdam
The Skoda Elroq is the company's second all-electric vehicle, following the popular Skoda Enyaq, which was launched in 2021. The new model is actually an electrification of the Skoda Karoq SUV (EL ectric ka ROQ = ELROQ), but with a bold and new look.
Although it is based on the same MEB platform as the Enyaq, the body is 17 cm shorter and for the first time features Skoda's new design language, which was previewed back in April 2023. The remaining three new models (small car, station wagon and seven-seater) are likely to be introduced in the coming years, along with updates to the Enyaq.
This design language includes new Skoda lettering on the hood (instead of the traditional badge) and a high-tech panel with LED headlights. All of this is hidden in the camouflaged Elroq prototype I drove in Amsterdam last week. The body is in the new Skoda green, and the final details of the body are still hidden, but the driving experience is everywhere.
From the press release, we learned that the Elroq features a completely new technology panel instead of a traditional grille. It also replaced the badge with new Skoda lettering on the hood, though on the car I was driving, both were completely covered, so I couldn't confirm it. However, the overall styling has some familiar Skoda elements and looks no smaller than the Enyaq.
On the way
During the road test, I drove the Elroq around Amsterdam, passing city roads, motorways and some Dutch country roads. There are four models in the Elroq range, with different battery sizes, power outputs, and drivetrains. The 50 and 60 models use smaller 55kWh and 63kWh batteries, respectively, while the 85 and 85x use larger 82kWh batteries for a range of up to 348 miles. The 85X is the only all-wheel drive model, with the rest of the models being rear-wheel drive.
The interior configuration is similar to that of the Enyaq. There is a 5-inch driver's display, a 13-inch center display, and an optional head-up display. The interior design is more sustainable, using interiors made from recytitan fibers (a blend of recycled PET, virgin PET, and recycled fibers). At the moment, though, I can't comment on how it looks or feels.
On the journey I started with the Elroq, the SUV was very powerful and felt very nimble. Much like the Enyaq, it has a driving position more like a sedan than the overly upright style of some large SUVs. The only reason you need to sit up straight is to look at the heads-up display, as it's designed to be viewed from a higher seating position.
The steering is responsive and doesn't feel too light – in fact, at low speeds, it feels a bit heavier than some other EVs. But once activated, the sensation is less noticeable and similar to any modern steering system.
I know very well that the brake pedal feels very bouncy and the travel is long from the first time you press it to the time you fully press it all the way. When the car uses an automatic handbrake (after being stationary), you can feel the extra resistance of the pedals. This brake does have a more manual feel than most modern cars, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
The Elroq is positioned below the Enyaq in the Skoda EV range, so apart from a slight reduction in size, the biggest difference may be in its feature set. For me, the biggest difference in terms of driving is the Elroq's suspension. As you drive past speed bumps and ramps, you will feel every bump in this car. I've driven the Enyaq through Morocco before, so I know very well how that car feels, and the Elroq's suspension definitely feels stiffer.
A lot of times, you'll want stiffer suspension – especially when the car is in sporty mode – but for everyday driving, I prefer a softer one. The choice of wheel size and tires certainly makes a difference, and choosing 19-inch wheels instead of the largest 21-inch will certainly improve ride comfort as well.
First impressions
Judging by the Skoda's new design language and the first test drive of the Elroq that I've seen before, I'm excited about the release of this car. The Enyaq already offers a better value proposition than stable competitors like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Audi Q4 e-tron, but the Elroq could do better – if it's priced right.
The car is aimed at the compact SUV segment, with a slightly smaller body, but not much loss of interior space, and a driving experience very similar to the Enyaq – except for the suspension and brake pedals. The EV will compete with models like the Volvo EX30 and Kia EV3, but the price could be cheaper than both. While the price hasn't been set yet, I'm guessing it will be around £30-35,000.
The base Elroq 50 or 60 would be an attractive budget electric car, while the top-of-the-line Elroq 85X could be a real alternative to a premium SUV. While the driving experience reveals some aspects of the car, it will be the cabin trim and technology that will really cement the value of the Elroq, and of course, the on-the-road price (or lease agreement) – all of which I can't comment on based on this test drive. Still, if you're looking for an affordable SUV-style electric car, the Skoda Elroq might be worth the wait.