Skoda Epiq 2027 News

Skoda has indicated two key SUV electric vehicles (EVs) slated for Australia may have their release dates pushed back.With booming demand for EVs in Europe against a backdrop of war in the Middle East and subsequent spiking oil prices, buyers in Australia may have to wait until the end of next year before they can get behind the wheel of the Epiq small SUV.Likewise, the recently announced Skoda Peaq seven-seater large SUV EV, a companion model to the popular Kodiaq and the stated flagship – or peak – of the Czechian brand’s extensive range, might still be up to two years away from a local launch.According to Skoda Australia Brand Director, Lucie Kuhn, there are a number of factors at play putting pressure on the availability of these two important electric models.“Here in Australia, we are trying to fight to get the launch of global models, the Epiq and Peaq,” she said. “We are awaiting final confirmation.”With sales of EVs expected to eclipse internal combustion engine models for Skoda in Australia, the importance of the Epiq in particular cannot be overstated.Closely related to the just-released VW ID. Polo light car supermini and ID. Cross electric crossover version that are already creating a buzz with strong pre-orders in Europe, it is a key player in the Volkswagen Group’s retaliation against the wave of cheap EVs from China.More specifically, the Epiq uses a modified version of the MEB electrical architecture known as MEB+ designed to slash engineering and production costs.Developed by Seat in Spain (where all models including a Cupra Raval version will be built), it switches from a rear-motor/rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration to a front-motor/front-drive layout.Along with a simpler torsion beam rear suspension set-up and the choice of two modestly sized battery packs of 39kWh (for 310km of WLTP range) and 55kWh (for about 440km WLTP) sizes, the goal here is to save money.Speaking of which, while pricing and specification details have yet to confirmed for our market, the entry-level version is expected to kick off from somewhere in the mid-$30,000 region.This would take the fight up to the BYD Atto 2, GWM Ora 5, Jaecoo J5, Leapmotor B10 and Chery E5.Crucially, at the time of publishing, neither VW has been confirmed for Australia as yet.The Peaq, meanwhile, employs a stretched version of the Enyaq’s MEB architecture, and will offer 60 RWD, 90 RWD and 90X all-wheel drive powertrains.Globally unveiled in late June, Skoda has yet to reveal many details about this model, but it is anticipated that the main target will be the successful Tesla Model Y L, which currently retails from around $75,000 and $90,000 before on-road costs in Australia.If the brand can achieve similar pricing to the latter, it would undercut a host of electric alternatives, including the Kia EV9, Volvo EX90, Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Mercedes-Benz EQS.Both models represent strong opportunities for conquest sales for the company.“We are hard at work now, working on Epiq and Peaq,” according to Skoda Australia Head of Product and Marketing, Kieran Merrigan.“The feedback is really awesome, and we can't wait to see the work on them and bring them to market – 2027 for the Epiq, and then late 2027 or 2028 for the Peaq.”

A new budget electric compact SUV from Europe is on its way to Australia, with specifications of the Skoda Epiq revealed overseas. The Epiq is a rival to other budget EVs from the Suzuki e Vitara to the Kia EV3, along with other Chinese competitors such as the BYD Atto 3 and MG4. Skoda has previously confirmed it will arrive in Australia next year. Volkswagen Group Australia has been contacted for comment to find out exact launch timing.The car will need an affordable price tag in Australia to be competitive. It will be built in Spain, which means it will be on the cheaper end of European exports.It will be available with three different power set-ups in Europe, producing 85kW, 99kW and 155kW, all using front-wheel drive. It comes with 39kWh and 55kWh battery choices, offering driving range of 310km and over 440km, respectively. DC charging from 10-80 per cent can be as fast as 24 minutes. The Epiq is Skoda's first model to sit on Volkswagen Group's new MEB+ platform, which is specifically designed for compact EVs.The platform is also capable of bidirectional charging, so it can power external devices and redistribute power to the home or the grid. There is a tablet-sized 13-inch central touchscreen and compact digital driver display, with several physical buttons on the steering wheel and centre console. A panoramic sunroof and electric sun blind can be selected as an additional option.Skoda said the car will offer significant storage options, including a 475L boot and 25L front space. It measures up at 4171mm long, 1798mm wide, 1581mm high, with a wheelbase of 2601mm, which is in line with many of its rivals in the segment. Skoda has also announced there will be a limited edition variant of the car launching after the car's initial market launch.It will feature standout red interior and exterior elements, while keeping the car's most powerful electric set-up offered.

One of Europe’s cheapest small cars will live on in Australia – for now. While the Skoda Scala’s future hangs in the balance due to shifting buyer preferences, plunging sales and a new-model onslaught that includes value EVs like the coming Epiq, its Fabia kid brother is treading just enough water to justify continuing importation.

The Volkswagen Group’s long-awaited response to cheap electric vehicles (EVs) from China is shaping up to be one of next year’s most important global debutantes.