Skoda unveils affordable Epiq electric SUV with compact urban focus

Wednesday 20 May 2026 - 07:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Skoda unveils affordable Epiq electric SUV with compact urban focus

Skoda Auto unveiled the new Skoda Epiq in Zurich on Tuesday, introducing its most affordable electric vehicle and the smallest SUV in its battery powered lineup. The compact crossover is positioned below the Skoda Elroq and Skoda Enyaq, targeting urban drivers and first time electric vehicle buyers with pricing designed to compete directly with gasoline powered models.

The Epiq becomes the first Skoda model built on the Volkswagen Group MEB+ platform, developed for compact front wheel drive electric vehicles. The lineup includes three powertrain options. The entry level Epiq 35 delivers 85 kW, while the Epiq 40 produces 99 kW. The flagship Epiq 55 reaches 155 kW, equivalent to 208 horsepower. The lower trims use a 38.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery with an estimated driving range of around 310 kilometers, while the Epiq 55 receives a 55 kWh nickel manganese cobalt battery capable of up to 440 kilometers under the WLTP standard.

Fast charging performance is a central part of the vehicle’s positioning in the growing affordable EV market. The top version supports DC charging speeds up to 133 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in roughly 24 minutes. Skoda is also emphasizing practicality. Despite measuring only 4.1 meters in length, close to the size of the gasoline powered Skoda Kamiq, the Epiq offers 475 liters of cargo capacity, placing it above several competitors in the compact crossover category.

Inside the cabin, every version includes a 13 inch infotainment touchscreen and a 5.3 inch digital driver display with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Buyers can choose between three interior configurations called Studio, Loft, and Suite. The base trim uses upholstery produced entirely from recycled plastics, reflecting the broader industry push toward lower emission manufacturing and sustainable materials.

Pricing is expected to play a key role in the Epiq’s market appeal. In Ireland, prices start at €24,559 and rise to €37,189 depending on battery and trim level. In the United Kingdom, the vehicle is expected to launch at around £25,000. The Epiq forms part of a broader low cost electric vehicle strategy by Volkswagen Group alongside the upcoming Volkswagen ID.Polo and Cupra Raval, which share the same MEB+ architecture. All three models are expected to reach European customers by late 2026, while Skoda plans to begin Epiq deliveries in Europe before the end of this year.