Skoda is preparing to enrich the electric urban SUV market with
the introduction of the Epiq, a model which not only pays homage to the late Yeti thermal SUV but also aims to compete with the
future Renault R5 E-Tech and other Citroën ë-C3. Scheduled for an official presentation in 2025, the Epiq will be offered at a price of around €25,000 excluding bonuses.
With the imminent arrival of the new Citroën ë-C3, priced at €23,300 excluding bonuses, the segment of economical electric city SUVs looks set to become more and more competitive. Renault’s R5 E-Tech, expected this fall, and the Skoda Epiq, the first sketches of which have just been revealed, promise to liven up this market.
A “Modern Solid” style body line
With its angular lines and airy cabin, Skoda fans will draw parallels with the popular Yeti urban SUV which was discontinued in 2017. At 4.10 meters long, the Epiq is slightly shorter than the Yeti but still surpasses in terms of trunk space, with 490 liters compared to the 416 liters of the Yeti but also to the 355 liters of the electric Jeep Avenger while this one is also in the same niche in terms of size.
The exterior design of the Skoda Epiq is characterized by a sculpted hood and a gloss black Tech-Deck front fascia that incorporates T-shaped LED elements and Matrix LED technology headlights. The Epiq is also distinguished by its front bumper which uses the concept of vertical slots like on Jeeps, and underlines its crossover side. Its aerodynamic roofline extends to a small, thin spoiler and ends on a vertical rear window. The T-shaped taillights enrich a smooth stern all the way to the bumper which again takes up the concept of vertical slots.
The matte white paint is accented with bright orange accents on the bumpers and interior. The body contour is highlighted with black plastic door sills and wheel arches which accentuate the adventurous appearance of the SUV.
Minimalist interior
The Epiq’s sleek interior layout marks a first in the adoption of Modern Solid design, reflecting Skoda’s new aesthetic vocabulary. This space favors the use of eco-responsible materials and incorporates the brand’s own Simply Clever tips to maximize storage space, in particular via an open compartment in the central console equipped with an induction charging area for smartphones.
The luggage compartment is also enriched with ingenious features such as hooks for hanging bags, loading devices, anchor points and a hidden storage space under the floor.
As for the two-spoke steering wheel, it is adorned with the new Skoda typography and equipped with haptic buttons as well as knobs with bright orange finishes. The sketches reveal the presence of various shortcuts on the steering wheel, including a button to easily deactivate the lane keeping system and potentially other driving assistance devices.
A notable aspect concerns the dashboard and multimedia screen – both digital – complemented by eight direct access buttons located on the center console. These controls will likely also provide access to climate controls, driving modes or parking assistance.
Skoda Epiq, 400 km of autonomy
Price and availability
The Skoda Epiq will be fully revealed in 2025 and its entry-level price will be around €25,000. It will be one of the 6 new electric products promised by the manufacturer. However, this year, the Skoda Elroq is also expected and should position itself as a competitor to the Peugeot e-3008 and Renault Scénic E-Tech.
Source : Green Mobility
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