First test drive of the new electric Škoda Peaq in Austria
Škoda has let journalists in Austria test drive its new fully electric Peaq SUV, which stands out in the brand's lineup for unusually high equipment standards and its largest-ever battery in a Škoda EV. The model is expected in Latvia by mid-October, with orders already being accepted.
Škoda's new Peaq model comes as something of a surprise, since the brand has traditionally been known for fairly simple cars. This nearly 4.8-meter-long fully electric SUV, however, offers a considerably higher equipment standard than usual. The name itself, translating to "peak," signals the manufacturer's ambitions.
The car features an 86 kWh net battery pack — the largest ever used in a Škoda electric vehicle. Under the front hood there's an organized storage compartment for cables and the boot cover.
Cabin and passenger space
Second-row passengers have generous room, while the third row is tighter and better suited for occasional use. Still, the seven-seat version qualifies for the maximum available state support for EV purchases. The driver's area is well thought out, featuring a large head-up display, a vertical screen, and physical buttons for climate control.
Driving impressions
The first drive took place on quiet, out-of-town roads, where the car's sound insulation proved strong. Škoda also highlights details such as special body colors and a panoramic roof that can be tinted in nine segments.
The manufacturer promises a range of over 600 km on a single charge, and factory tests have reportedly reached as much as 936 km. The test car, after a full charge at the hotel, showed a range of around 400 km.
Price and competitors
The Škoda Peaq starts under 49,000 euros, while a richly equipped version shouldn't cost more than 67,000 euros. There is essentially no direct rival in this segment — the Peugeot e-5008 can't match its equipment and finish, while the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9 cost nearly 100,000 euros.
In Latvia, the new model is expected to arrive by mid-October, and orders are already being taken.
