Skoda Epiq, official debut: here is the final version of the electric crossover

Produced in the Spanish factory in Navarra, the model measures 417 centimetres in length, seven centimetres less than the Kamiq, and combines compact dimensions designed for urban mobility with greater interior roominess. The boot offers 475 litres of capacity, which increases to 1,345 litres when the rear seats are folded down. The model also inaugurates the new Modern Solid styling language, characterised by the Tech Deck Face front, T-shaped rear light clusters and large unpainted protective surfaces.

The interior is made without animal-derived materials and integrates a new digital architecture with a 13-inch infotainment display and 5.3-inch cockpit. Next-generation Android software enables over-the-air updates, native application integration and a high level of customisation of the on-board experience thanks to the integrated eSIM Lte. Also making its debut this autumn is the Digital Key function, which allows the smartphone to be used as a digital key that can be shared with up to three other people. The car also supports Vehicle-to-Load technology for powering external devices and remote control of climate control and charging via the MySkoda app.

The range has three power levels associated with two different battery technologies. The Epiq 35 and Epiq 40 use LFP accumulators, while the Epiq 55 uses NMC batteries. AC charging is up to 11 kW, while DC charging ranges from 50 kW for the Epiq 35 to 105 kW for the Epiq 55. The model also supports Plug&Charge and access to the European Powerpass network with over 640,000 charging points. On the safety front, Adas systems such as Front Assist, Lane Assist, Side Assist and Rear Traffic Alert, as well as seven airbags, are standard. The Selection version adds Level 2 assisted driving with adaptive cruise control and active lane keeping.

We at Sole 24 Ore Motori had the opportunity to drive the undercover version a few months ago. During our first contact, we drove the 55 version, i.e. the one equipped with a 155 kW electric motor and 290 Nm of torque coupled with a 55 kWh NMC (nickel, manganese and cobalt) battery pack offeringa range of around 440 km. This top variant is flanked by the 35 version with an 85 kW motor and 267 Nm of torque and the 40 variant with 99 kW and 267 Nm of torque, both of the latter two being equipped with a 38.5 kWh LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery. The range for both is approximately 315 km, but this figure is still undergoing type approval

There were only a few kilometres available for the test drive but the car's excellent 55/45 balance and the feeling created with the brake pedal, which is very direct, stopping the car as soon as it is depressed and allowing a modularity that is atypical for a car on tap, was immediately clear. The Brake function is confirmed, allowing the driver to choose the desired level of regenerative braking by selecting it from the central display.