Skoda Peaq: preview test, how it goes, technical data

A seven-seater flagship to complete Škoda’s electric range: thanks to the Peaq, the Czech company will be present in all the most important SUV segments. The offer opens with the small Epiq and continues with the medium Elroq, up to the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé. The largest model has crossover shapes, if not almost raised station wagon shapes, a length of almost 4.90 meters and a lot of internal space, a fundamental feature to identify it as a true Škoda. For now we have only driven it in a camouflaged version inside and out, but this allowed us to have a first taste of a car that stands out for its versatility and travel comfort. It will be proposed with two drum cuts, from 63 and 91 kWhfor a maximum autonomy that will exceed 600 km and with powers from 204 to 299 HP. Production of the Peaq, which will take place in the Czech factory in Mladá Boleslav, will begin by the end of the summer, with the commercial launch no earlier than the autumn: we will have to wait a little longer to get an estimate of the list price.

1 Škoda Peaq: design and dimensions

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The aesthetics of the Škoda Peaq are partly visible already in the camouflaged model, which hides the shape of the grille and headlights but allows the robust and elongated proportions of a crossover to shine through, if not almost like a raised station wagon. The length of 4,874 mm it is important, so much so that it makes it the largest and most spacious model currently in the range. It derives from the Vision 7S concept, from which it takes numerous aesthetic solutions that align with the Modern Solid design philosophy, including the Tech Dark Face front panel illuminated by thin vertical axes with LED backlighting. The high front continues into an equally muscular but still smooth side, with very large doors and a generously sized last pillar while the imposing rear sees an enlargement at the base of the passenger compartment. To improve aerodynamic efficiency there are handles flush with the bodywork, which extend electrically when the driver approaches with the key. The available rims range from 19″ to 21″.

2 Škoda Peaq: the technology

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The platform on which the Peaq is built is the Meb, obviously in an elongated version to reach its considerable dimensions. It is offered with two battery sizes, both with NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) chemistry: from 63 kWhcombined with a 204 HP and an estimated range of approximately 430 km; from 91 kWh with engine from 286 HP and rear-wheel drive, or with two engines 299 HP combined and all-wheel drive, in both cases with over 600 km of autonomy. Fast charging supports up to 195 kW of direct current power, going from 10 to 80% in 27 minutes with the smaller battery and 28 minutes with the large one.

3 Škoda Peaq: interior and technology

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Space is the strong point of this Peaq, which takes full advantage of the almost three meter wheelbase to create five comfortable seats in the basic version, which can become seven on request by adding a third row which is not sacrificed at all. The trunk capacity is impressive, with 1,010 litres in five-seater configuration e 299 to seven, with the possibility of storing backpacks without difficulty for a trip. There is also an optional panoramic sunroof with electrochromic dimming, which can be controlled in three predefined positions or customized via the infotainment screen in each of the nine segments. And in this regard, in the center of the dashboard there is a 13.6″ vertical display with Android-based operating system, well integrated by physical buttons. The digital dashboard, on the other hand, has a size of 10″ and can be integrated with the augmented reality head-up display. The Peaq also features the digital key to share access via smartphone or smartwatch without having to exchange the physical key. The car supports the Vehicle-to-load (V2L) system to charge external devices. Finally, there are several interesting solutions scattered throughout the passenger compartment, according to the philosophy Simply Clever: obviously the traditional umbrella holders in the doors cannot be missing, but you can also find a double wireless charging plate, the electric boot awning, which can be housed in the front compartment when removed to make room for the third row of seats, a folding table and a USB socket on the internal rear-view mirror. Among the options we find the Relax package, ideal for long journeys, which introduces specific seats with massage function, front cushions and an integrated app for climate and lighting control according to six modes. Furthermore, the sound system is developed in collaboration with Sonos for maximum sound clarity.

4 Škoda Peaq: how’s it going?

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During the short journey on the shores of Lake Como we were able to test the characteristics of the Peaq in an extra-urban travel environment with discreet but flowing traffic and a top speed of around 70 km/h. Behind the wheel of the Czech flagship you can sense its travel vocation, with a comfortable driving position and excellent soundproofing. The regenerative braking, present in two levels, is well balanced, with the second being closest to one one-pedal drive. However, the adjustment paddles are only available on the Sportline version. The engine delivers power in a docile and predictable manner, avoiding the jerks characteristic of electric cars where torque is available immediately. The suspension system absorbs potholes well and, despite the significant size, the turning circle is limited and this gives the Peaq surprising agility.