New Skoda Elroq electric SUV to take on Kia Niro EV

It’s fair to say that Skoda’s first electric SUV, the Enyaq iV, was a success, as it out-classed the mechanically-similar Volkswagen ID.4 in almost every way. However, there’s now a new, smaller plug-in Skoda crossover on the way, which is being designed to rival the Kia Niro EV.

Dubbed the Skoda Elroq, this upcoming model will sit below the Enyaq iV in the Czech brand’s electric car lineup and will introduce an all-new ‘Modern Solid’ design language, setting a precedent for future Skoda EVs.

At this time, very little is known about the forthcoming Elroq, but Skoda has now unveiled a teaser, giving us our first glimpse of what the new car will look like. Taking inspiration from the Skoda Vision 7S concept car, the Elroq will have a slightly boxier silhouette than its larger Enyaq sibling. Like the Vision 7S, the Elroq will also likely get slim, upright headlights, with a black trim piece replacing a traditional grille.

The Elroq will, in fact, sit on the same MEB underpinnings as the Enyaq – as well as other VW Group electric cars such as the Volkswagen ID.3 – but a shorter rear overhang will mean a footprint of around 4.5 metres – around 150mm shorter than the Enyaq. Of course, like most Skoda models, we expect the Elroq to excel on interior space in spite of its smaller size, with plenty of the brand’s signature ‘Simply Clever’ features.

To remain competitive with the likes of the aforementioned Kia Niro EV, as well as the Renault Megane E-Tech and upcoming Hyundai Kona Electric, the Skoda Elroq will need a range of around 280 miles. It’s possible the Elroq could share its battery options with the Cupra Born hatchback, with a smaller 58kWh battery as well as an optional 77kWh unit with a range of over 300 miles.

Eager prospective buyers don’t have too long to wait as the Skoda Elroq is expected to make its debut in 2024. The new model will spearhead the brand’s push towards electrification, with a smaller £20k electric crossover and a Skoda Superb-esque electric estate set to also arrive in the coming years, alongside the production version of the 7S Vision seven-seater SUV.