Skoda has officially unveiled its new Epiq electric SUV, confirming a starting price of £24,950 when orders open in July. This makes it Skoda's most affordable electric vehicle to date, achieving price parity with the petrol-powered Kamiq in the UK. Buyers seeking a small Skoda SUV can now opt for electric without the typical cost premium.
Compact Design and Market Positioning
The Epiq is designed for urban agility while offering family-friendly space. It enters a crowded segment, facing rivals like the Renault 4, Kia EV2, and the closely related Volkswagen ID. Cross. The latter shares much of its technology with the Skoda. Early prototype drives revealed that the Epiq's chassis has been refined for improved comfort, matching the ID. Cross's ride quality over bumps.
Chinese competitors such as the Geely EX2 and BYD Dolphin G are also entering this fiercely competitive market. Skoda aims to stand out with a well-judged size, good visibility, and a surprisingly large boot for its class, though rear passenger space is less generous than in some Skoda models.
Design and Dimensions
The Epiq is the first production Skoda to fully adopt the Modern Solid design language, featuring a chunky, clean look with a glossy black Tech-Deck Face and distinctive T-shaped light signatures. At 4,171 mm long, 1,798 mm wide, and 1,581 mm tall, it is compact but offers a 475-litre boot and a 25-litre frunk for charging cables. Aerodynamics are optimized with a drag coefficient of 0.275, aided by active cooling shutters and a smoothed underbody.
UK buyers can choose from six colours, including a solid Marble Grey and metallic options like Jasper Red exclusive to the Epiq. Wheel sizes range from 18 inches on SE L and Edition trims to 20 inches on the First Edition.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Epiq features a 13-inch Android-based infotainment screen and a five-inch digital driver display, with wireless smartphone connectivity. The MySkoda app enables remote vehicle monitoring, charging management, and comfort controls. A mobile digital key is planned for later this year. The closely related Volkswagen ID. Cross will have a larger 10-inch driver display and a 12.9-inch infotainment screen.
Skoda uses only animal-free materials, with seat coverings made from recycled polyester. Over 34 kg of recycled materials are used in the car. Practical touches include an umbrella in the driver's door, an ice scraper, bag hooks, and an Easy Open cupholder.
Powertrain and Performance
The Epiq rides on the Volkswagen Group's MEB+ platform, designed for front-wheel-drive electric cars. Two battery options are available in the UK: the Epiq 40 with a 37 kWh LFP battery offering around 190 miles of range and 133 bhp, and the Epiq 55 with a 52 kWh NMC battery delivering up to 272 miles and 208 bhp. The Epiq 55 can charge from 10 to 80% in under 25 minutes at a peak rate of 105 kW. All versions support 11 kW AC charging.
Bidirectional charging is a key feature, enabling vehicle-to-load, home, or grid power supply. One-pedal driving is available in B mode with adjustable regeneration intensity.
Safety and Trim Levels
Standard safety equipment includes Front Assist, Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert, Lane Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and seven airbags. Optional Travel Assist 3.0 adds Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist. The Premium Package includes Intelligent Park Assist with trained and remote parking.
The UK range starts with the Epiq SE L 40 at £24,950, featuring 18-inch wheels, LED lights, a 13-inch infotainment screen, and adaptive cruise control. The SE L 55 costs £27,700. The Edition 40, from £27,700, adds heated seats, a heated steering wheel, keyless entry, and bidirectional charging. The Edition 55 is £30,450. A limited First Edition, based on the Epiq 55 at £31,450, features Navajo Orange accents, a black roof, and exclusive 20-inch wheels.
Towing capacity is up to 500 kg for the Epiq 40 and 1,200 kg braked for the Epiq 55.
With its competitive pricing, practical design, and advanced features, the Skoda Epiq is poised to be a significant player in the electric SUV market of 2026.
