Skoda’s upcoming Peaq electric SUV is shaping up to be a significant leap forward for the brand, offering a compelling blend of space, practicality, and modern technology. Early previews suggest this seven-seater could become a standout in the growing electric family vehicle market, potentially surpassing even the popular Kodiaq in terms of real-world usefulness.
Expanding the Skoda Lineup
The Peaq represents a key expansion for Skoda, being 11cm longer than the current Kodiaq. This allows for a genuine seven-seat configuration as standard in the UK, though five-seat options with expanded cargo space will be available elsewhere. The vehicle introduces several new features, including one-pedal driving, a segmented panoramic roof, and a 13.6-inch vertical touchscreen infotainment system powered by Android.
Skoda is also adopting a new design language called “Modern Solid,” previewed in the 2022 Vision 7S concept. This includes a distinctive “TechDeck” glossy panel housing driver-assist sensors, alongside physical controls for essential functions like hazard lights and volume – a welcome addition for usability.
Performance and Range Options
The Peaq will launch with two battery and motor configurations:
- 60: 201bhp with a 63kWh battery, offering a 267-mile range.
- 90: 295bhp with a 91kWh battery, available in rear- or all-wheel drive, achieving up to 379 miles of range.
Charging speeds differ slightly, with the larger battery supporting up to 195kW, but both options complete a 10-80% charge in roughly 27-28 minutes.
Space and Practicality Prioritized
Skoda’s reputation for practicality remains intact. The Peaq boasts impressive boot space: 299 liters with all seats up, expanding to 890 liters when the rearmost seats are folded. A new “frunk” provides additional storage for the parcel shelf, charging cable, and tire inflator.
Driving Experience: Comfort and Control
Test drives in Italy revealed a smooth, comfort-focused driving experience reminiscent of Skoda’s Enyaq and Elroq models. The Peaq handles well despite its size, feeling less bulky than some competitors like the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9.
The one-pedal driving feature is the first of its kind for Skoda, though the limited regen levels (two settings) may not suit all drivers. Initial tests at urban speeds achieved a respectable 3.6 miles per kWh, suggesting real-world range could align closely with official figures.
Future Outlook
The Skoda Peaq is slated for release in late 2026, with UK pricing estimated from £50,000. If Skoda delivers on its promises of space, practicality, and modern features, the Peaq has the potential to become a leading choice in the electric family SUV segment.
The Peaq isn’t just another electric SUV; it’s a statement of Skoda’s commitment to building genuinely useful vehicles for modern families.
