Review – Skoda Enyaq (2024) – Will major update bring Enyaq back to the top?!
2024 Skoda Enyaq
Skoda is part of the Volkswagen Group and therefore has free access to the German car group’s technological treasure trove. The brand borrowed the powertrain from the Volkswagen ID.7 and put it in the Enyaq. The result is a considerably faster Enyaq. Previously in the electric SUV you had to put up with enough with about 200 horsepower – unless you bought an RS version – but now in an Enyaq you have at least 286 horsepower. A power increase of over 80 hp, nice! You notice it immediately when you step on the gas pedal. The outgoing model was smooth – as practically any EV is – but the updated model pops right off. The 0-100 time decreased by two seconds, to 6.7 seconds. A necessary upgrade? No, but a very pleasant one! For those who want even more power, there is the RS Edition with 299 hp, and the Enyaq RS Coupe with 340 hp.
More range
Of course, electric cars are not just about power. Range and payload are just as important. Remarkably, despite maintaining the same battery size of 77 kWh, the Enyaq now gets farther on a full charge of power. It is only after 565 WLTP kilometers that the power runs out. Previously, he kicked it up to 540 kilometers. Now we hear you thinking, “How can he get further with the same battery pack when he now has more power?
The answer is simple: the Volkswagen Group’s new electric motor is not only more powerful, but also significantly more efficient than its predecessor. It can deliver more power with less current, resulting in improved range without increasing battery capacity.
fast charging
The payload, unfortunately, has not improved. With a maximum charging speed of up to 135 kW, the new Skoda Enyaq 85 – that’s the version with the large battery pack – does not excel at a fast charger. Don’t get us wrong, it’s fast enough for everyday use, but there are competitors in this segment that gobble up power faster. Notable detail: the RS version with 77 kWh battery can handle up to 175 kW at a fast charger. A fine new feature is the preconditioning function, which allows you to easily preheat the battery to optimize charging speed. This feature should be mandatory in all new EVs.
No new design
As for the design, only two subtle changes have been made. The new Skoda writing style on the tailgate and the removal of the “IV” designation immediately reveal that you are dealing with the updated Enyaq. With a luggage space of 585 liters (over 1,700 liters with the rear seats folded down), the Enyaq still offers all the space a busy family might need. However, the SUV cannot match the cargo space of the Skoda Octavia Combi and Superb Combi.
New software
In terms of software and technology, the Enyaq also received an upgrade. With new software and more computing power, the infotainment system offers a better user experience and clearer interface. The screen responds considerably smoother than before and the system no longer crashes spontaneously. Customizable widgets allow you to personalize the Enyaq to your liking, so you can quickly access your favorite applications.
Prices Skoda Enyaq
In the Netherlands, three variants are on the price list: Selection, Business Edition and Sportline. In addition, you can still choose the Coupe variant. There are two battery variants: 58 kWh (400 km range), which Skoda calls the ’60’ and the 77 kWh variant we are driving (565 km range), which is called ’85’.
The Enyaq 60 starts at 44,990 euros. For the Enyaq 85 that we drive – replacing the “80” – the brand charges a minimum of 49,990 euros. That doesn’t make the SUV a price buster, but compared to the Volkswagen ID.4 – which is technically the same – the Enyaq still offers more value for exactly the same money.
Sportline
On the Sportline that we drive there is a price tag of 54,990 euros. Thanks to some options – think striking illuminated grille – the test car ticks up 60 grand. The Sportline trim adds a sporty flair to the design, with large alloy wheels, sporty bumpers and various black accents both inside and out. The interior features dark colors, carbon-look details and the Sportline has a special sports suspension for a dynamic driving experience. How it drives – and more – we tell you in the video below.