Electric cars are getting cheaper and the range is growing. We test the Skoda Elroq in camouflage gear and conclude that Volvo has reason to worry.
What stands out about the Skoda Elroq?
Of course it’s still wrapped. The Elroq is already completely finished and we’ve seen it briefly in a closed room (with a taped-up phone and stern-looking security guards). But it won’t be officially unveiled until October 1st. You’ll have to make do with this flamingo outfit. We can already reveal something: it has features of the Vision 7S concept model.
The name Skoda is, just like with the Vision 7S, written in full on the bonnet and the logo disappeared. But where the Vision 7S has vertical headlights under the daytime running lights, they are somewhat lower on the bumper on the Elroq. Chrome has been banned by Skoda, just like with the Kodiaq and Superb. Even more design features: a short overhang and relatively small wheel arches. For aerodynamics, it is better if the space between the wheels and the body is as small as possible.
First, some context: the Elroq is extremely important for Skoda, because it has to compete with the Volvo EX30 and the Kia EV3. There is something strange about the EX30, because despite software problems, lack of space and ugly materials, it is very popular in the Netherlands.
Also to the Kia EV3 the Elroq will have a tough job. The Kia will be on the market a bit earlier than the Elroq and the Koreans have their act together again. The space is generous, the build quality is top and the EV9-like appearance is promising.
Skoda lets us drive the flamingo Elroq near Amsterdam for a while, as a kind of opening act for the real thing. Just like concerts, opening acts can be a torture, but also a great bonus. The Elroq is on the right side, although there are also points for improvement.
What is good about the Skoda Elroq?
If we were to award a trophy on behalf of all tall people to car brands that don’t let us down, we would nominate Skoda. The electric Elroq is not spacious, but gigantic. The car is also cleverly constructed; the wheelbase is the same as that of the larger Enyaq. So you have exactly the same amount of space, even in the back.
Anyone who has purchased a cramped Volvo EX30 will sometimes scratch their heads. The difference with the Elroq is embarrassing, especially in the back. The Elroq is 17 centimetres smaller than the Enyaq, and therefore has a somewhat cramped luggage space of 470 litres.
The rear-wheel drive Enyaq comes with three battery packs (55, 63 and 82 kWh), the largest of which has a range of 560 kilometers. With the smallest battery you can get 350 kilometers.
The best thing about Skoda is looking for tricks that other brands overlook. The smartest: a net under the parcel shelf in which you can store the charging cable. Takes up little space and you can simply stuff the cable in without having to take an origami course first. We love it! The parcel shelf itself is adjustable.
What could be improved about the Skoda Elroq?
The controls are not as complicated as the Volkswagen ID.3, but the Elroq has no real buttons on the dashboard for climate control, for example. Although we managed to get by with the large touchscreen during the short test drive.
The test route between Amsterdam and Uithoorn was paved with speed bumps and we found the damping, especially at the rear, a bit too stiff. The feel in the brake pedal could also be better. Perhaps some tweaking can be done before the first expectant buyers pick up their Elroq.
When will the Skoda Elroq come to the Netherlands and what is the price?
On October 1st, the electric Elroq will be unveiled and can be ordered. But it won’t be in the showroom until 2025. The official price is not known, but we can easily take a guess. Skoda wants to compete with the Volvo EX30, which costs 36,795 euros. Assume that the Elroq will not be a euro more expensive, perhaps even cheaper.
The Kia EV3 will come to the Netherlands before the Elroq, it will be in the showroom around Christmas at the latest. Kia has not yet announced prices.
What do I think of the Skoda Elroq?
We only drive 30 kilometers between Amsterdam and Aalsmeer in a taped car with an interior that is not yet finished and is full of hard plastic. So we do not pass judgment yet, but we assume that Skoda will be well prepared. Just like with the Enyaq, the first electric Skoda that made so much more of an impression than the Volkswagen ID.3. Volkswagen itself does not yet offer an electric car in the Elroq segment.
An interesting battle is brewing in the compact electric car market when the Kia EV3 joins the Elroq on the market. And don’t forget the award-winning Renault Scenic. Volvo has been warned.
Source: www.autoreview.nl
