Skoda Elroq, a new electric SUV priced similar to its petrol equivalent or even cheaper.

Skoda launches Elroq, the cheapest electric car in its catalogue. Priced from €33,900, it is one of the Volkswagen Group’s solutions to counter falling demand in Europe and growing competition from China. This starting price, similar to that of the petrol-powered Karoq, makes it an affordable alternative for those considering the move to zero-emission mobility. We must not forget that the price, higher than that of similar internal combustion engine vehicles, has acted as a brake on the adoption of electric vehicles. And in this case, the Moves III assistance discount must still be applied, so the figure could be reduced by another few thousand euros.

Elroq comes to market as the first model to use the brand’s new design language.

Available with several engine and battery options, the Elroq can travel over 560 kilometers. It is also the first model to feature the brand’s new design language. At the front, the typical grille disappears to be replaced by a shiny black piece that is tipped with a four-segment light signature that acts as daytime running lights. The First Edition features an exclusive light strip that runs along the front and connects the two. In all versions, the traditional logo is replaced by the brand name.

Measuring 448cm long and 188cm wide, the Elroq has a cargo volume of 470 liters, which can be increased to 1,580 liters by folding down the rear seat backrest. The trunk has a tray that can be placed at different levels, and there is a rear mesh for storing small items. The floor also has a double bottom for storing charging cables. These are two different Simply Clever solutions that the car is equipped with. Others, more interesting, are the ice scraper on the back door and the umbrella hidden in the side door.

Mechanical range

As for the mechanical versions, depending on the chosen engine and battery capacity, there are four options: Elroq 50, 60, 85 and 85x. The first variant, which is the entry-level variant of the range, has a 125kW engine with 310Nm of torque at the rear axle (hence it is rear-wheel drive). Its 55 kWh battery (net 52 kWh) provides a range of more than 370 kilometers. The Elroq 60, which is also rear-wheel drive, is powered by a 150kW engine with 310Nm of torque. With a 63 kWh battery (net 59 kWh), it can travel more than 400 km at a top speed of 160 km/h.

The two maximum power variants feature the largest battery with a capacity of 82 kWh (77 kWh net). The Elroq 85 combines this with a 210 kW rear motor delivering a maximum torque of 545 Nm. The Elroq 85x has additional drive on the front axle, allowing you to enjoy all-wheel drive. Both versions have a top speed of 180 km/h. The Elroq 85 has one of the highest maximum ranges in the segment: more than 560 kilometers on the WLTP cycle.

The 82 kWh battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in 28 minutes at a fast DC station.

With a charging power of up to 175 kW, the 82 kWh battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in 28 minutes at DC fast charging stations. For the Elroq 50 and Elroq 60, which support charging power up to 145 kW and up to 165 kW respectively, the same process takes 25 minutes or less. All Elroq models support charging power up to 11 kW at AC charging stations.

The Elroq is sold in the launch version of the First Edition, which features an orange interior (contrast stitching and seat belts), this color is also present on the alloy wheels. The seat covers are made from eco-friendly TechnoFil fabric in anthracite and gray faux leather. The three-spoke sports steering wheel features First Edition badging; The pedals have stainless steel housings. Extensive standard equipment also includes a 13-inch infotainment screen, head-up display with augmented reality, KESSY Advanced with Walkaway function and rear side airbags. The first version also includes an Area View camera, a power liftgate with virtual pedal and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory and massage function.