Premiere at the Munich Show
At the IAA Mobility exhibition in Munich, attention is drawn not only to the Volkswagen ID. Cross. Alongside it, an updated version of the Škoda Epiq is presented — a compact electric off-roader first shown in concept form last year. Positioned as a practical and stylish entry point into the brand’s electric lineup, the Epiq promises everyday usability while remaining in the same price range as its gasoline counterparts.
Škoda presented not a production version but an almost-ready show car that reflects the final look of the model. The design evolves the 2024 concept with small but important refinements, including redesigned LED lights, a modified grille, updated bumpers, and new mirrors. All these changes bring the off-roader closer to its production appearance, with its launch planned for mid-2026.
Dimensions and Design
The compact Škoda off-roader is 4.1 m (161.4 inches) long, which is very similar to the subcompact Fabia hatchback and slightly larger than the India-specific Kylaq version. Naturally, it is the smallest electric car in Škoda’s lineup, positioned below the Elroq and Enyaq.
The Epiq is the first model to fully embody the Škoda Modern Solid design approach, which will later define the rest of the brand’s model range. Key style elements include a new “Tech-Deck” front end, slim T-shaped LED lights, and a pronounced tornado line along the squared-off rear fenders. The show car features a matte Cashmere color finish, complemented by glossy black details, Cosmo gray trim, and new wheel designs.
Interior and Comfort
Interior photos have not yet been released, but the Epiq is expected to borrow elements from its relative, the Volkswagen ID. Cross. This means a combination of an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, supported by physical buttons and tactile scroll wheels for more intuitive adjustments. Features such as wireless charging are also confirmed.
Despite its compact size, Škoda claims the off-roader will be able to accommodate five passengers. The cabin will also include practical details like bag hooks, mounts, and hidden storage compartments under the floor, along with a luggage capacity of 475 liters (16.8 cubic feet).
Technical Features
The electric car will use the MEB Entry architecture alongside the future Volkswagen ID. Polo, ID. Cross, and Cupra Raval. Škoda did not go into specification details but promised a range of up to 425 km (264 miles), which is 5 km (3 miles) more than the Volkswagen ID. Cross. Both models are expected to be equipped with a front electric motor producing 208 hp (155 kW / 211 PS).
Pricing Policy and Competitors
Production of the Epiq will take place at the Volkswagen plant in Navarra, Spain, and sales will begin in mid-2026. Škoda states that this will be the most affordable electric car in their lineup, with a price “comparable” to the combustion-engined Kamiq. Under current conditions, this suggests a starting price of around €25,330 ($29,700) in Germany and £24,975 ($33,700) in the UK.
Competitors outside the VW Group will include small electric off-roaders such as the Ford Puma Gen-E, Jeep Avenger, Kia EV2, Mini Aceman, Toyota Urban Cruiser, Renault 4 E-Tech, and others.
The small electric off-roader is one of two major launches by Škoda at the IAA Mobility exhibition in Munich. The other will be the Vision O concept, which serves as a preview of the future Octavia estate with a fully electric powertrain.
Škoda continues to expand its electric lineup, emphasizing affordability and practicality. The Epiq, with its balanced characteristics and competitive price, could become a key player in the compact electric SUV market, especially in Europe, where demand for eco-friendly and economical models is growing. This model not only aligns with current trends but also highlights the growing competition among manufacturers striving to make electric vehicles more mainstream.