The Škoda Enyaq iV 80 at a glance
The Volkswagen Group has never been known for decisiveness or special innovative strength. Instead, however, for thoroughness and clean construction of an idea. For example, when the SUV was booming, they were not among the first on the market, but now they are among those with the best sales figures.
The same game was evident in the electrification of the model range. While other manufacturers were early on with their debut works and saw themselves driven by innovative startups like Tesla, VW remains relaxed. With the e-Golf and the electric triplets Up, Mii and Citigo, solid but not outstanding products were offered. Because the special should be reserved for the MEB, the “modular electrical construction kit”. It is the linchpin of all current electrification efforts and is so flexible that it is even sold to other manufacturers such as Ford.
While Wolfsburg relies on cool marketing and particularly unusual design of the ID series based on the MEB, and Audi has also drawn the Q4 e-tron rather conspicuously, Škoda offers something like the pleasantly unobtrusive alternative: the Enyaq. The electric car for those who simply want a good electric car. At least that’s how it seems at first glance. Can this impression be true in the AutoScout24 test?
The big edge: The Škoda Enyaq iV 80 is a real flagship
Visually, the Škoda Enyaq iV 80 (combined power consumption: 16.3 kWh/100km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km²) looks as if it has been milled from solid. Sharp edges characterize his style, and large areas dominate, which don’t even try to conceal the gigantic volume of the Stromer.
The closed front, its steep windscreen and the tapering rear with lateral aero fins on the roof spoiler ensure that the big Czech is impressively aerodynamic. The drag coefficient is only 0.257, which not only ensures lower fuel consumption, but also increases comfort in the interior. Because wind noise does not even occur.
Spacious interior with ample trunk
But it’s not just the quiet acoustics that inspire in the interior, but also the very good use of space that is typical of Škoda. In the Enyaq, all available registers of the omitted cardan tunnel have been used and offers more lavish storage space and generous freedom of movement not only in the first row, but also in the rear.
The raised seating position due to the battery installed under the floor also has its advantages. Because the Škoda Enyaq iV 80 scores with an SUV-like overview without dissatisfying with its ostentation – even if it clearly courts the attention of passers-by in the expensive equipment lines with up to 21-inch alloy wheels.
However, the Enyaq should be seen more as a van than as an SUV. And that is to be understood positively. Above all, the big electric Czech offers space and variability in abundance, not least thanks to its trunk, which can be enlarged from 585 liters to almost 1,800 and the trailer load of up to 1,000 kg.
The technology kit is impressive in terms of functionality
The versatility is not only limited to the visible, but also the invisible offers proverbially exciting things. The Škoda Enyaq iV 80 that we drive forms something like the upper middle of the model range. With its 150-kilowatt rear engine, in old currency at least 204 hp, it draws its power from a 77-kWh lithium-ion battery, which lies flat between the axles like a kind of skateboard. There are also the 1960s models with a smaller battery, or the X models with an additional motor at the front, and now the RS model with a coupé body is brand new.
In addition to the drive technology, the information technology of the MEB vehicles is almost identical. In the Škoda Enyaq, however, the center display is noticeably large, which again ensures a particularly good overview. However, we had to record a few system crashes in the test, in which the software always started up again automatically, but only after a few minutes of the black screen. However, the constantly evolving software is intended to remedy this – and it is simply a part of new computer technology that not everything runs smoothly at the beginning. But the range of functions is there: the Škoda Enyaq has voice control, route guidance and even planning the charging stop well under control. Stability should soon be under control. VW, for example, has just rolled out the 3.0 software version, which should fix most of the problems.
A driving behavior that was once only dominated by luxury sedans
All of that is forgotten once the Škoda Enyaq iV 80 is in motion. Anyone who has opted for the optional DCC adaptive suspension will be spoiled from the first few meters with a driving comfort that makes you completely forget about the combustion engine. With smacking sovereignty, the additional battery weight helps ensure really top-class rolling behavior. In addition, there is the very intelligent recuperation control, which keeps the Enyaq going wonderfully, especially on the motorway. Together with the interference noise, which is also perfectly shielded by the double insulating glazing, this convinces even the fiercest opponent of electromobility.
In addition, there is the surprising handiness due to the sensitive steering, which also pleases with a large steering angle and small turning circle. In general, the concept of rear engine and rear-wheel drive is well thought out, because the large Enyaq is not just a pleasure to drive thanks to the good traction. Although that should certainly not have been the top priority for a Stromer trimmed for efficiency.
Range and charging behavior at a decent level
In the brochure, the Škoda Enyaq iV 80 is listed with a WLTP range of 529 kilometers. The test, which was carried out in partially frosty temperatures, resulted in significantly reduced values. On average, we covered about 350 kilometers with a normal driving style, which did not take into account the type of electric drive. This puts the Enyaq in a good position in the competitive environment. A motorway consumption of around 25 kWh/100km is impressive, as is the test average of 21 kWh/100km.
In summer it should be easy to push this value down to around 18 kWh/100km and then be able to cover well over 400 kilometers between charging stops. Incidentally, the Škoda Enyaq iV 80 continues to charge “only” there with 125 kW, the higher charging capacities of the MEB modular system are reserved for the VW models for the time being. However, the charging capacity of 11 kW on the AC wall box is more important for everyday use. Here the Czech does not show any weaknesses and fulfills the target wonderfully, without any major losses. Even a completely empty battery is fully charged again in a good seven hours.
Conclusion:
If you are looking for a spacious, practical and, above all, very comfortable car, you can shortlist the Škoda Enyaq iV 80. In addition, it is one thing above all: a very good electric car. Because it impresses with its efficiency, good range and solid charging capacity. However, you have to forgo the coolness factor. Because, unlike some other competitors, the Czech doesn’t make a fuss about his talents. Instead, he relies on self-confidence. And that makes it the perfect everyday electric vehicle. (Text & images: Fabian Mechtel)
