Skoda Enyaq iV Review 2021
The new Enyaq iV may be Skoda's first all-electric offering, but this large, practical SUV more than holds its own in an increasingly competitive market.
With its excellent safety features, good range and robust build quality, the Skoda Enyaq iV makes for an attractive alternative to rivals such as the Kia e-Niro, Mercedes-Benz EQA, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and sporty-looking Kia EV6.
Our Skoda Enyaq review covers:
- Classy exterior design with huge front grille and slim headlights
- Smartly designed dashboard with 13.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard
- 585-litre boot with 60/40 split rear seats
- Two battery sizes – a 58kWh and 77kWh – with three power outputs
- Five 'Design Selections' to choose from, including Loft, Lodge, Lounge, Suite and EcoSuite
Based on the similarly sized Volkswagen ID.4, Skoda has put a lot of effort into the Enyaq iV's exterior design to ensure it stands out on the road.
At the front, the Enyaq iV's sharply angled A-pillar, short bonnet, huge front grille and slim headlights not only look good but are functional too, helping to make the Enyaq iV more aerodynamic and reduce drag.
At the rear, the extended spoiler, big Skoda badging and angular taillights shape look smart and classy, making the Enyaq iV is one of the most appealing electric family cars on the market. Large alloy wheels and eight exterior paint colours complete the look.
Inside, there's plenty of room in the cabin for all the family. Head and legroom are generous throughout, and there's room enough in the back for three adults to get comfy. Overall, the Enyaq iV is a roomier car than the Ford Mustang Mach-E and ID.4.
As expected from a Skoda, storage space is excellent, with sizeable door pockets and an enormous cubby under the centre armrest. Further storage is also available between the seats and at the base of the dashboard.
At the rear, the rear seatback splits and folds in a 60/40 arrangement, and there's a handy ski hatch, allowing you to carry long items without compromising on rear passenger space.
Boot space is equally impressive. At 585-litres, it's bigger than rivals such as the ID.4 (at 542 litres) and the e-Niro (at 451 litres) and can carry up to nine carry-on suitcases, a child's buggy, or the weekly family shop with ease. It's also easy to load thanks to the wide tailgate opening and low load lip.
Inside, the Enyaq iV's interior is inspired by the Octavia, its smartly designed dashboard boasting few physical buttons. Instead, the car's functions are operated through an enormous 13.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display and the 'Laura' voice command system.
Overall quality is good with squidgy plastics on the dashboard and doors, piano black and metal highlights, and fabric upholstery throughout. It's not as plush as the Audi e-tron and Porsche Taycan but beats the Mustang Mach-E and ID.4 for style and substance.
There are five individual 'Design Selections' to choose from, including Loft, Lodge, Lounge, Suite and EcoSuite, each using different materials and finishes to create a distinctive style.
The entry-level Loft model comes well equipped with LED headlights, rear parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, keyless start and 19-inch alloy wheels.
The Lounge package adds light grey leather and yellow stitching, while the Suite specification brings full leather and piano black decor.
For those who want something sportier, a top-spec SportLine model is available with Matrix LED headlights, reprofiled sports bumpers, lowered sports suspension, Alcantara/leather upholstery, a sportier body kit, gloss black exterior trim and 20-inch alloy wheels.
In terms of power, there are two battery sizes – a 58kWh (badged 60) and 77kWh (badged 80) – with three power outputs. The smaller battery produces 177bhp, while the larger battery offers 201bhp (rear-wheel drive) or 261bhp (all-wheel-drive).
The entry-level iV 60 has a claimed range of 256 miles, which puts it on par with the cheapest versions of the VW ID.3. The more expensive iV 80 or iV 80X model offers 331 miles and 303 miles, respectively, which promises Tesla Model 3 distances between charges.
Both batteries provide effortless performance, which is almost identical to the closely related ID.4, although the cheaper Tesla Model 3 is still much faster. A range-topping all-electric vRS is also expected to land later in 2021.
All Enyaq iVs can charge at 50kW public charger, charging from 0-80 per cent in around an hour, or at approximately nine hours using a 7kW home charger. There's also the option to upgrade the iV 60 model to 100kW and the iV 80 to 125kW, cutting the charging time to 35 minutes and 38 minutes, respectively.
Out on the road, the Skoda Enyaq iV is easy to drive. This family SUV is most at home around town thanks to its fantastic turning circle and excellent all-around visibility.
It's great out on the motorway, too, making for a quiet and comfortable drive, even at high speeds – just don't expect it to be too much fun when things get twisty.
Prices for the new Skoda Enyaq iV start from £38,305.00 OTR* or to lease from £435.20 per month.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has some great lease offers on the Skoda Enyaq iV with the full manufacturer's warranty, road tax, breakdown cover and free mainland GB delivery direct to your door included with every lease agreement.
Car leasing offers many advantages over buying with dealer finance or a bank loan, including a lower initial outlay, fixed monthly rentals, optional maintenance packages and no depreciation worries. Check out our handy Leasing vs Buying guide to see if leasing the new Skoda Enyaq iV is right for you.
*'On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change. Always check with your nearest retailer.
