What's the difference?
It’s a new, premium, pure-electric, mid-size SUV, but unlike every second market arrival CarsGuide has been looking at lately, it doesn’t come from China.
This is Skoda’s Elroq, the Czech manufacturer’s second electric SUV, following the larger Enyaq which launched here just on 12 months ago.
Effectively an electric counterpart to the Karoq, it’s a single-motor, rear-wheel drive, five-seater with healthy performance and range claims as well as sharp pricing and generous spec to challenge its ever-expanding competitive set.
After a brief preview drive earlier this year, we’re back behind the wheel for a fuller examination. So, read on to see if this sleek newcomer could be part of your family EV future.
The Genesis GV70 Electrified Signature Performance has had a meaningful update, and it’s not just a light refresh.
This latest version brings significant improvements to technology, safety, and design.
With only one grade available, this review looks at whether it’s the smart choice for anyone wanting to step into a luxury electric medium SUV.
The Skoda Elroq is a niche option in a boiling hot small SUV segment, but it makes sense as the next plank in Skoda’s multi-model EV strategy. It has the value, quality and performance to cut through. We think it’s a worthy newcomer.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer with accommodation and meals provided.
The updated Genesis GV70 Electrified Signature Performance is packed with features, effortless on the road, and backed by fantastic ownership value. This isn’t just polished luxury, it’s smart luxury, making it a vehicle worth serious consideration. The only caveat? I’d opt for a different interior colour to white if you have kids or pets.
Skoda’s aim with the Elroq is a contemporary, ‘solid’ design approach and while of course a car’s looks are always a subjective call I think it’s sleek and clean.
In this case, perception is reality with the car recording a slippery 0.26 drag coefficient and a 2025 Red Dot Award in the automotive category is an impressive design feather in its cap.
First thing you’ll notice is ‘SKODA’ type on the leading edge of the bonnet in place of the more typical winged arrow brand logo, which is a cool detail.
Functional pieces include active shutters to help balance aero efficiency and battery cooling as well as front wheel arch air curtain inlets on the outer edges of the nose.
The underbody has been smoothed and at the back 'separation edges’ help to manage exiting airflow, as does a roof spoiler with subtle mini aero pieces underneath it on either side.
The interior is understated and manages to combine visual interest with easy functionality.
A 13-inch media screen sits in the centre but happily there’s a row of physical shortcut buttons underneath for often-used functions. The ‘SKODA’ lettering replaces the logo on the steering wheel, too.
A two-tone treatment across the console, seats, doors and multi-level dash looks deluxe, as do bold orange seatbelts in the 130 Years Edition.
There’s also a heavy emphasis on the use of what Skoda says are “sustainable, practical and durable materials” in the cabin.
The ‘Loft Design’ interior in the 85 Select uses fabric comprising 78 per cent recycled PET plastic, while the ‘Lodge Design’ in the 130 Years Edition features synthetic leather and a fabric made from Nylon waste. The floor trim and mats also contain a high percentage of recycled polyester.
Although slightly smaller than some rivals at 4715mm long and 1630mm tall, the GV70 comfortably fills out its medium SUV stature with a pronounced nose, wide stance, and pillowed, swoopy rear end. The update adds an exclusive reverse G-Matrix pattern in the grille, new 20-inch alloys, and a rear aerodynamic spoiler for a more distinctive presence.
Inside, there are three interior colours to choose from. Our test model’s white leather looks stunning but isn’t the most practical choice for families, pets, or anyone frequently navigating unpaved roads. A rainy day could make you anxious! The quilted leather upholstery shines visually, complemented by the new ‘Milky Way’ ambient lighting panels in the doors.
The electrified platform gives the cabin a flat floor, which improves legroom for middle-seat passengers, though it does mean there’s no space for a spare tyre in the boot.
Other notable updates include intelligent Matrix LED headlights, smart key sensors on all door handles, and new paint options. I particularly like the hidden charging port cover integrated into the grille; a subtle, clever touch. Overall, the GV70 is a handsome SUV.
In terms of practicality up front there are big bins in the doors able to easily cope with larger bottles as well as a pair of cupholders in the centre console with a removable divider. They’re best for cups rather than bottles.
There’s a decent glove box, a useful oddments tray behind the cupholders, a console box in the centre with a lift-out tray and a ‘false floor’ style door at the bottom to hide things, which is typically Skoda.
Wireless device charging is onboard and under the ‘flying buttress’ style centre console there’s a large storage bay with two USB-C sockets, plus there’s another pair of USB-Cs in the back. And don’t forget the obligatory Skoda umbrella housed in the driver’s door. Very nice.
The Elroq rides on the VW Group ‘MEB’ platform and although shorter overall it has the same wheelbase as its larger Enyaq sibling, so rear space is surprisingly generous.
For the record, the Elroq is just under 4.5m long, close to 1.9m wide and a little over 1.6m tall with a 2765mm wheelbase.
In the back, sitting behind the driver’s seat set for my 183cm position I have ample legroom, plenty of space for my feet and lots of headroom.
It would be a little tight for three full-size adults across the back; two is probably better. But a trio of up to mid-teenage kids will be swimming in it.
In terms of storage, again, there are pockets in the doors big enough for large bottles. There is a pair of pop-out cupholders in the fold-down centre armrest combined with a small tray for devices or other bits and pieces.
A removable tray, including a couple of bottle-sized holders sits on the floor in front of the centre rear position, which is terrific. Then you’ve got your map pockets on the front seatbacks. Nothing unusual there, but a thoughtful touch is a device-sized pocket on the back of them.
Both grades have adjustable ventilation for back-seaters with third-zone temperature control and drop-down side shades in the 130 Years Edition.
Boot capacity is a class competitive 470 litres with all seats up, nudging up to a generous 1580 litres with the 60/40 split-fold rear seat backrest lowered.
In typical Skoda fashion there’s a range of useful additions including a through-port door for lengthy items, side storage compartments, an intermediate position for the parcel shelf, multiple cargo fasteners, net pockets and a 12-volt socket.
There’s even a windscreen ice scraper housed in the tailgate and a charging cable tidy in the 130 Years Edition.
Bad news is there’s no spare wheel of any description, just a repair/inflator kit. But it’s worth noting the Elroq can tow a 1200kg braked trailer which is handy.
The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance feels spacious and comfortable front to back. Up front, the seats are thickly padded and packed with features, making it easy to find a good driving position. The electrically adjustable steering wheel adds to the ease, and the 172mm ground clearance with wide door openings makes getting in and out effortless.
Storage up front is a bit limited. The middle console and glove box handle most of the load, while door drink holders are slim. I do like the dedicated phone tray and sunglasses holder, which add some practicality to everyday use.
The 27-inch multimedia and instrument cluster display is sharp, high-tech and intuitive, while the responsive touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto make connectivity easy. The system includes built-in sat-nav, and you can customise it to fill the full screen while keeping a small speedo widget visible.
Charging is well-covered with two USB-C ports per row, a wireless charging pad, a 12-volt socket and a 250-volt domestic plug in the boot. Small practical touches like extendable sunvisors, manual rear sunblinds, smart key sensors on each door and the ability to move the front passenger seat or operate the boot from the driver’s seat add extra convenience.
In the rear, legroom is good and while I’m comfortable behind my driving position at 168cm, taller passengers may need to shuffle seats to optimise comfort. Seat cushioning is excellent, and the outboard seat heaters are a welcome touch. The bench is wide enough for three adults for short trips, and families will appreciate the two ISOFIX child seat mounts and three top-tether anchor points. Amenities include climate control, rear air vents, sunblinds and charging ports, although storage is limited to a couple of cupholders and map pockets. The pull-down armrest sits a little low for me, but my kid has no concerns.
Boot space measures 503L with all seats in place, the smallest compared with nearest rivals. That said, it easily accommodates my family of three’s groceries and school gear. There’s a small underfloor pocket for the tyre repair kit and home cables, plus a 22L frunk for extra storage. The powered boot lid is a practical convenience I always appreciate.
A two-grade Elroq line-up starts with the entry-grade 85 Select at $54,990, before on-road costs, which pitches it into a swirling vortex of small SUVs comprising a mix of pure combustion, hybrid and other EVs kicking off in the around 50 to 60 grand bracket.
How’s this for a table of well-credentialed competitors?
At the same time it substantially undercuts primo compact EV SUV options like the BMW iX2 (from $77,300), Mercedes-Benz EQA (from $84,900) and Mini Countryman E (from $64,990), all before on-road costs. Which brings the flagship Elroq 130 Years Edition into the picture at $64,990, BOC.
Once you’ve crested the $50K barrier expectations in terms of included features are understandably high and Skoda has obviously done some heavy lifting to load up the Elroq value proposition.
Aside from the performance and safety tech we’ll get to shortly, 85 Select highlights are 19-inch alloy rims, a 13-inch central multimedia touchscreen, a 5.0-inch digital instrument display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.
There’s also an eight-speaker audio (with digital radio), wireless device charging, a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel as well as LED headlights, auto rain-sensing wipers and heated auto-folding exterior mirrors.
The flagship 130 Years Edition, celebrating the brand’s time in business, ups the ante with 21-inch rims, an augmented reality head-up display, power front seats (with memory and massage), heated rear seats, three-zone climate, 675W 12-speaker Canton audio, a hands-free power tailgate and matrix LED headlights.
Then you can add in a 360-degree overhead camera view, adaptive cruise control, ‘Intelligent Park Assist’ and more.
Both Elroq grades’ standard equipment is on the pace for the price.
The updated Genesis GV70 Electrified Signature Performance comes in a single, well-equipped grade, priced from $132,800 before on-road costs. That puts it between two of its closest electric rivals - the Audi Q6 quattro e-tron at $122,500 and the Porsche Macan 4 from $134,400. Our test car also includes features that would typically cost extra on other brands, adding extra value.
The update brings significant tech upgrades, including wireless phone mirroring, a 27-inch OLED multimedia display, a new operating system with over-the-air software and firmware updates, a colour head-up display, 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio and a UV-C sanitiser for the middle console (the last one a little gimmicky for me).
The other technology is well-rounded with the addition of key sensors on all doors as well as keyless start, remote parking aid (via keyfob), three customisable driver profiles accessed via fingerprint, satellite navigation, a digital rear-view mirror and tri-zone climate control.
Inside, the Signature Performance feels distinctly premium. It features quilted Nappa leather upholstery, leather trims, a suede headliner, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. The front seats are electric, heated, ventilated and have massage and memory functions, while the rear outboard seats and electric steering wheel are also heated.
Put simply, there’s a lot included as standard.
The Elroq is powered by a single, rear-mounted AC permanent magnet synchronous motor sending 210kW/545Nm to the rear wheels only.
Strong numbers for a single-motor EV; way higher outputs than the Elroq’s internal combustion and hybrid rivals and right up there with pricier Euro EV options in the category.
The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance is a fully electric SUV with dual motors, one on each axle, producing a combined 320kW of power and 605Nm of torque. Activate Boost Mode, and those numbers climb to 360kW and 700Nm, giving the GV70 a serious edge when you need it.
Despite its name, this grade isn't pitched as a performance EV but it's definitely no slouch with a 0 -100km/h sprint time of just 4.4 seconds with Boost Mode, or 5.0 seconds in standard mode. That’s quick enough to hold its own against rivals in the luxury electric mid-size SUV segment, while still delivering smooth, linear acceleration that’s effortless in everyday driving.
Both Elroq grades are fitted with a CATL-sourced 82kWh (77kWh net) lithium-ion battery for a claimed 529km (WLTP) range.
DC fast-charging up to 175kW is possible which equates to a 10-80 per cent charge in 28 minutes. AC charging at 11kW means eight hours for a 100 per cent charge. Mode2 and Mode3 Type 2 charging cables are included.
Claimed energy consumption on the combined cycle is 16.6kWh/100km and on the launch drive which took in city, suburban and freeway running we saw an average of 15.2kWh/100km, which is impressive given the mix of conditions covered.
The GV70 Signature Performance runs on a new 84kWh lithium-ion battery, giving a WLTP driving range of up to 462km which is a solid figure for both city commuters and regional drivers, provided you charge regularly. Genesis includes a couple of charging cables, and the SUV also offers V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capability, ideal for powering larger devices while stopped.
Charging options are strong. The Type 2 CCS port accepts up to 11kW on AC chargers and up to 350kW on DC fast chargers, allowing a 10 - 80 per cent charge in as little as 19 minutes on a 350kW unit or seven hours and 35 minutes on an 11kW AC charger. Realistically, most DC chargers on the road operate closer to 170kW or below, which still delivers a very usable recharge.
The GV70 also features four levels of regenerative braking, including a one-pedal mode. Staying mostly in this mode over the week, I achieved an energy consumption of 21.0kWh/100km, which is very close to the claimed 20.0kWh/100km and again, is a solid result for a car of this size and outputs.
Skoda claims the Elroq will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.6 seconds which is usefully rapid. There’s plenty of power and nearly 550Nm of torque available. But the car weighs almost 2.2 tonnes, so you’re talking strong rather than ‘extreme’ performance.
There’s plenty of acceleration on tap for the nip and tuck of the city and suburbs as well as easy cruising and overtaking on the freeway.
There are multiple drive modes including ‘Eco’, ‘Comfort’, ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Individual’ to manage energy use and performance.
The Elroq sits on the same ‘MEB' battery-electric platform as any number of EVs in the VW Group portfolio and it has a strut front, multi-link rear suspension set-up. And it feels the bumps.
Even on reasonably smooth surfaces little bumps and thumps make their presence felt. The worse the surface gets, the more pronounced it is. Once you get out onto the smooth highway and freeway, of course it’s not an issue. And you may get used to it over time but it certainly is present.
Noise suppression tech along with low wind and tyre intrusion combine to deliver a calm interior environment, even by EV standards.
The Elroq steers nicely. It points accurately and the steering weight is quite light, although it’s not the last word in terms of road feel - the connection between your hands on the wheel and the tyres on the tarmac.
Speaking of which, tyres on the 85 Select’s 19-inch rims are Kumho Ecsta PS71 (235/55 fr - 255/50 rr) and the 130 Years Edition’s 21s are shod with Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 (235/45 fr - 255/40 rr), both EV-specific tyres designed to reduce rolling resistance for improved energy efficiency. They grip firmly and the car feels stable and nicely balanced in twisting corners.
All around vision is good. The A-pillars in particular aren’t as chunky as they can be in some modern cars, which opens up the view in front. Over the shoulder vision is good and the large rear window makes the internal rear view clear, as well.
As mentioned, the Elroq is reasonably hefty for its size and you want sturdy brakes to wash off speed, which come in the form of ventilated front discs clamped by twin-piston calipers.
Having said that, there are drums at the rear. Not unheard of on an EV where regenerative braking takes a fair amount of the load, harvesting energy in the process.
Nothing wrong with a well engineered drum and the brakes work perfectly well, even when tested constantly on downhill twisting sections. No hint of fade.
On the active safety front, this car is loaded with ADAS-style crash prevention tech but we didn’t feel any of it being overly intrusive. No lane-keeping wrenching at the wheel or reminders telling you to pay attention; it’s all fairly low-key.
Miscellaneous observations include the compact 9.3m turning circle, great front seats in both Elroq grades and the effectiveness of the augmented reality head-up display in the 130 Years Edition. As well, a 5.0-inch instrument display might sound crazy small but it works beautifully. The view to it and the graphics on the screen are crystal clear with three switchable layouts available.
My kid called the GV70 the 'Marshmallow Limo' this week, and it’s an apt description for the ride comfort. The SUV probably delivers the one of the most comfortable rides I’ve experienced, thanks to soft suspension and new hydro bushings in the rear, which smooth out most vibrations. The trade-off is that it feels dampened when cornering and you glide over the road rather than feel it, which I find a little soft, but my husband loves.
The dual motors provide strong, prompt acceleration, and Boost Mode adds an extra kick when you need it. The cluster pulses red while active, which is a fun touch.
Visibility is excellent. The wide windows give a clear view around the car, and none of the pillars obstruct from my driving position. The digital rear-view mirror is particularly handy when carrying passengers or cargo.
Regenerative braking is easy to control via the steering wheel paddles. Mode 3 and the one-pedal function deliver strong regen without being harsh, but you need to adapt your braking technique, otherwise passengers might feel a little queasy.
Despite looking larger than it is, the GV70 is simple to park, thanks to an 11.5m turning circle and a 360-degree camera system, though the multiple view modes can feel overwhelming at first. I also love the remote parking via keyfob, which comes in handy in tight carparks or garages.
No ANCAP or Euro NCAP assessment for the Elroq at this point but crash avoidance tech is extensive, including auto emergency braking (AEB) with car, pedestrian and cyclist detection, ‘Lane Assist’ (with ‘Adaptive Lane Guidance'), rear cross-traffic alert, ‘Traffic Jam Assist’ and adaptive cruise control.
There’s also ‘Turn Assist’, ‘Side Assist’, an exit warning system, driver fatigue detection, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. The 130 Years Edition ads a 360-degree overhead camera view, adaptive cruise control, ‘Intelligent Park Assist’ and more.
If a crash is unavoidable there are seven airbags in the 85 Select (front, front side, front centre and side curtain) and nine in the 130 Years Edition, which picks up rear side airbags.
There are three top tethers for child restraints across the third row, with ISOFIX anchors on the two outer positions.
The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance carries a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2021 testing and comes with eight airbags as standard. One standout feature is the blind-spot view monitor, which displays a live video feed of your blind spot on the instrument cluster.
The update adds several new safety technologies, including parking collision avoidance assist for the front, side, and rear, as well as side parking sensors. Adaptive cruise control is now navigation-based, adjusting speed automatically for low-speed zones and curves in the road. Other standard safety equipment includes an active bonnet, lane keeping aid, lane departure warning, tyre pressure monitoring system, 360-degree camera, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, safe exit assist and driver attention warning.
Family-friendly features are also well catered for, with ISOFIX child seat mounts, three top-tether anchor points, rear occupant alert, intelligent seatbelt warnings, and rear child locks.
The autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with car, pedestrian, cyclist and backover detection is operational from 5.0 - 85km/h but it is usual to see the top figure sit well over 100km/h, especially for car detection.
Overall though, the GV70 combines a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems.
The Elroq is covered by Skoda’s seven-year, unlimited km warranty which is ahead of most mainstream players sitting at five years, unlimited km, with 24 months roadside assist included and renewed for a further year after each authorised dealer service. The battery carries an eight-year, 160,000km warranty which is the industry norm.
The option of guaranteed future value pricing is a plus with loan terms from 12 to 60 months as well as novated lease packages to take advantage of FBT reductions for efficient vehicles.
Service is recommended every 30,000km or two years, with each workshop visit costing $502, which isn’t bad given the maintenance interval. Six, eight and 10-year service packs are also available.
The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance comes with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and an eight-year/160,000km battery warranty, putting it in line with its rivals. What sets it apart are the extras included at no additional cost.
Genesis provides free scheduled servicing for five years or up to 75,000km, along with five years of roadside assistance through Assist Australia, and if you service through Genesis, that cover extends to ten years.
Owners also receive a complimentary five-year subscription to Genesis Connected Services and can choose either a five-year Chargefox subscription or an at-home wall-box charger.
Another practical bonus for regional drivers is that you aren’t limited to Genesis dealerships for servicing. You can use any of the hundreds of Hyundai service centres for scheduled maintenance, which makes ownership far more convenient. Overall, Genesis makes it easy and appealing to own a GV70.