Skoda has revealed the first sketches of the exterior appearance of its incoming Elroq compact SUV, a smaller electric vehicle (EV) designed to sit beneath the Enyaq in the product line-up.
The Czech manufacturer made the announcement of the Elroq’s drawings on World EV Day, a celebration of all things zero-emissions.
Right, so what can we glean from these sketches?
It is the first production model from Skoda to adopt what it is calling the ‘Modern Solid’ design language, which will be seen on all of its products going forward. For the Elroq, this aesthetic includes something called the ‘Tech-Deck Face’, framed by Matrix LED headlights. There’s also a new front-end design with Skoda lettering on it, Dark Chrome exterior detailing and a colour that’s exclusive to the Elroq called Timiano Green.
What’s a Tech-Deck Face when it’s at home?
It is a flat, wide structure that replaces the traditional Skoda grille, usually an octagonal-in-shape feature. That, in turn, results in split headlights, with the slimmer upper section of the Tech-Deck Face “seamlessly extending into the wings”. The Dark Chrome ‘Skoda’ lettering on the bonnet’s leading edge replaces the company’s familiar circular logo, while at the back of the car there’s a prominent roof spoiler and slim LED lights. Other signifiers include more lettering on the tailgate and 2D Skoda emblems on the centre caps of the alloys.
Have we got any thoughts from the team behind?
Yes, Karl Neuhold is the head of exterior design at Skoda Auto and explained: “The all-new Skoda Elroq embodies our new Modern Solid design language and takes the exterior design even further with its eye-catching Tech-Deck Face and distinctive front bumper.
“The Skoda lettering on the bonnet stands out as another characteristic feature of our all-new fully electric car, with accents in Unique Dark Chrome rounding off the look.
“Thanks to its long range and rugged body style, the Elroq will be the perfect companion for Everyday Explorers on outdoor adventures, while its compact size also makes it ideal for urban driving.”
Haven’t you already driven the Elroq?
We’ve driven a pre-production prototype (read that review here), but its bodywork was thoroughly camouflaged so this is as close to the finished article as we’ve seen so far.
But to swiftly recap, Skoda is planning to release the Elroq with a choice of four electric powertrain options and three different battery packs. Power will range from 170- to 300hp, with a suggested maximum range of 560km on one of the models fitted with the 82kWh battery pack.
On our first drive, we found a manoeuvrable and enjoyable-to-drive small crossover, albeit one which still needed some refinement of both its ride comfort and braking feel. But, like any Skoda, despite the fact it is small, the Elroq is still spacious - there’s ample room for rear-seat passengers and the boot measures at least 470 litres, rising to 1,580 litres with the back seats fold down.
Irish prices for the Skoda Elroq have yet to be announced, but it will certainly be more affordable than the Enyaq.