by Skoda is preparing for the presentation of its brand new electric car Epiq, which will take place on May 19. Engineers are rushing to complete all final adjustments, so spy photographers recently spotted two prototypes undergoing final tests at the Nürburgring track.
Sports version or not?
Particular attention was drawn to one of the prototypes, which could be a Sportline or RS version, as its steering wheel had paddle shifters. However, such paddles are common for Skoda electric vehicles, as they are used for regenerative braking. Nevertheless, one should not completely rule out the Sportline version, as the photo shows a sports steering wheel with a textured rim.
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Interior and equipment
The cabin shot does not reveal many details, but allows us to see the crossover’s 13-inch infotainment system for the first time. It will be complemented by a 5.3-inch digital instrument cluster, slim ventilation vents, and wireless smartphone charging. Buyers will also get ambient lighting, eco-friendly materials, and a cargo volume of up to 47.5 cubic feet (1344 liters).
SH Proshots
Exterior and hints
The front and rear bumper are camouflaged, making it difficult to determine if this is indeed a sports version. However, testers may have left a subtle hint in the form of stickers on the front fenders. Of course, one should not jump to conclusions from this.
Three powertrain options
Regardless of what the prototype hides, Skoda has already announced three different versions: Epiq 35, 45, and 55. The first combines a 38.5 kWh battery with a front motor producing 114 hp (85 kW / 116 hp) and 197 lb-ft (267 Nm) of torque. This allows the crossover to accelerate to 100 km/h in 11 seconds and have a range of 315 km.
SH Proshots
The mid-range model uses the same battery but with a more powerful motor rated at 133 hp (99 kW / 135 hp). This reduces the 0-100 km/h time to 9.8 seconds without affecting the range.
The top-tier version is equipped with a larger 55 kWh battery and a motor producing 208 hp (155 kW / 211 hp) and 214 lb-ft (290 Nm) of torque. It is the most interesting: it accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a range of up to 267 miles (430 km).
SH Proshots
While we are skeptical that this is a sports version, it is not hard to imagine its appearance in the future. After all, Volkswagen has already confirmed plans for an ID. Polo GTI with 223 hp (166 kW / 226 hp) in 2027.
Thus, the Skoda Epiq will become an important player in the affordable electric vehicle market. Its price will start at approximately 26,000 euros ($30,490), making it a competitive option. Three different powertrains will allow buyers to choose the optimal balance of price, power, and range. The potential appearance of a sports version in the future only fuels interest in this model, which promises to be not only practical but also an exciting choice for electric car enthusiasts.
