Škoda’s electric ambitions have been gathering pace over the last few years, but until now there has always been one obvious gap in its EV line-up. The Czech brand had compact and mid-size electric SUVs covered, but there was never a range-topper. That changes today with the arrival of the all-new Škoda Peaq, a seven-seat electric SUV that becomes the brand’s flagship model and its most technologically advanced vehicle yet.
Positioned above every electric Škoda currently on sale, the Peaq is a large family SUV designed to combine practicality, long-distance usability and a generous dose of technology. More importantly, it gives Škoda a proper contender in the increasingly important large electric SUV segment.
At 4.87 metres long, the Peaq is not just the largest EV the company has ever built, it is also the biggest SUV in Škoda’s history. In fact, it stretches 116 mm beyond the combustion-powered Kodiaq and rides on a wheelbase measuring nearly three metres. Those dimensions translate into what Škoda claims is the most spacious cabin it has ever offered.
The design follows the brand’s Modern Solid philosophy, which first debuted on the Vision 7S concept. The result is a clean and minimalist look that feels considerably more modern than the styling we’ve become accustomed to from Škoda. Slim T-shaped lighting signatures feature at both ends, while the gloss black Tech-Deck Face replaces a traditional grille.
There are a couple of interesting firsts too. The Peaq becomes the first Škoda to feature flush-fitting door handles and also introduces the largest panoramic roof ever fitted to one of the brand’s production cars. Dubbed Dynamic Shade Control, the roof uses electrochromic technology and can alter its transparency electronically, allowing occupants to control how much light enters the cabin.
Despite its size, aerodynamics have clearly been a priority. Škoda claims a drag coefficient of just 0.249, aided by active cooling shutters, flush door handles, aerodynamic wheel designs and a carefully sculpted roofline.
Inside, the Peaq appears to have been designed with long journeys in mind. The cabin can accommodate up to seven adults and offers a substantial 935 litres of luggage capacity in five-seat configuration, making it the most practical Škoda ever produced. There’s even a 37-litre front boot for charging cables and smaller items.
What stands out, however, is the focus on comfort. The optional Relax Package transforms the SUV into what Škoda describes as a lounge on wheels. Ergonomic seats with ventilation and massage functions, adjustable leg rests, integrated cushions and a dedicated wellbeing app aim to make long-distance travel considerably more relaxing.
The centrepiece of the dashboard is a new 13.6-inch vertically mounted infotainment display, marking another first for the brand. Running on an Android-based platform, the system supports third-party applications and introduces a redesigned interface intended to simplify operation. Audiophiles will appreciate the new Sonos premium audio system, which packs 16 speakers and a 755 W output.
Powertrain options are equally impressive. Buyers can choose between two battery packs, including a massive 91 kWh unit that becomes the largest battery ever fitted to a Škoda EV. Three variants will be available.
The entry-level Peaq 60 uses a 59 kWh net battery pack paired with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 bhp and 35.7 kgm of torque. It offers a claimed range of more than 450k m and can sprint from 0-100km/h in 8.4 seconds.
Moving up the range, the Peaq 90 produces 281.6 bhp and 55.6 kgm of torque, while the range-topping all-wheel-drive Peaq 90x develops 295 bhp. The Peaq 90 claims a range exceeding 640 km, making it the longest-range electric vehicle in Škoda’s history. Fast charging performance is impressive too, with both battery options capable of charging from 10 to 80 per cent in under 30 minutes.
The Peaq also introduces several new technologies to the brand. One-pedal driving comes as standard, while bidirectional charging allows the SUV to power external devices, homes and even feed electricity back into the grid where regulations permit.
Safety has not been overlooked either. Ten airbags are standard, alongside an extensive suite of driver assistance systems. Buyers can also specify Travel Assist 3.0, the most advanced assistance package ever offered on a Škoda.
The large electric SUV space is becoming increasingly crowded, but the Peaq arrives with a compelling combination of practicality, range and technology. More importantly, it feels like a natural evolution of everything Škoda has become known for over the years.
If the Kodiaq established Škoda as a serious player in the family SUV segment, the Peaq looks ready to do the same in the world of large electric SUVs.
