Skoda releases new images of the upcoming Epiq electric SUV under camouflage
Skoda Epiq: The Czechs' offensive is taking shape. The first details about the electric SUV that wants to democratize mobility
The manufacturer from Mladá Boleslav is stepping on the accelerator in the electric segment. After the success of the Enyaq, Skoda is preparing its "big bet": the new Epiq. Recent images of the camouflaged prototype confirm a compact SUV that promises to offer the brand's legendary space at a revolutionary starting price for its segment.
The affordable electric vehicle market is Europe’s new battleground, and Skoda doesn’t want to be left behind. The Czech automaker has recently released a series of new images of the upcoming Epiq, which will become the brand’s most affordable zero-emission vehicle. Designed to be “small but epic,” the new model will officially debut in the first half of this year.
"Modern Solid" Design: Robust and Digitalized
The Epiq is the first production model to adopt the brand’s new design language, called Modern Solid. Although the car was presented under a layer of camouflage, its lines betray a robust stance, with a length of approximately 4.17 meters – similar dimensions to those of the popular Kamiq.
Distinctive elements include the ‘T’ light signature and the ‘Tech-Deck’ front grille, which conceals the sensors and radars of the assistance systems. Aerodynamics were also a priority, with the car displaying a Cx coefficient of 0.275, essential for maximizing battery range.
Performance and autonomy: Three versions for all needs
The Skoda Epiq will be developed on the Volkswagen Group's new MEB+ architecture, configured with front-wheel drive. Customers will be able to choose between three performance levels:
- Epiq 35 (Entry-level): 116 hp and a 37 kWh LFP battery. Offers a range of up to 315 km, making it ideal for urban commuting.
- Epiq 40 (Mid-range): 135 HP, keeping the same 37 kWh battery, but with a higher charging power (90 kW compared to 50 kW in the base model).
- Epiq 55 (Top): The top variant comes with a 51.7 kWh battery (NMC technology) and a power of 211 hp. This promises a range of up to 430 kilometers and a fast charge from 10% to 80% in just 23 minutes.
The Interior: Simply Clever Space and 13-inch Technology
Inside, Skoda remains true to its philosophy of offering more space than you'd expect. The boot has a capacity of 475 litres (75 litres more than the Kamiq), rising to 1,344 litres with the seats folded.
The technology is present through the standard 13-inch central screen and a 5.3-inch digital instrument cluster. However, the Czechs have not completely given up on physical buttons, integrating haptic controls on the steering wheel and classic buttons for essential functions, a detail appreciated by customers who complained about the exclusively tactile interfaces of other models in the group.
The Kamiq effect: How much will the Skoda Epiq cost in Romania?
The biggest surprise the Czech manufacturer has in store is not related to technology, but to its pricing strategy. Skoda representatives have confirmed that in most European markets the Epiq will have a starting price comparable to that of the Kamiq.
In Romania, where the Skoda Kamiq (facelift variant) has a list price starting at approximately 19,733 euros (VAT included), this parity could propel the Epiq directly to the top of customer preferences. Even if the starting price circulated at European level for the basic variant is 25,000 euros, the application of subsidy programs (such as Rabla Plus, depending on the configuration in 2026) could lower the purchase threshold below the psychological barrier of 20.000 euros.
Who are the rivals in the local market?
The Skoda Epiq will not have an easy mission, entering a segment that has become extremely crowded in the last year. On the roads of Romania, the new model will have to contend with:
- Dacia Spring: Although the Spring plays in a lower class in terms of dimensions and finishes, it remains the most formidable opponent in terms of unbeatable price. The Epiq will try to attract customers who want "more car" (space, safety, materials) for a reasonable price difference.
- Citroën ë-C3: A direct competitor that also focuses on the 25,000 euro threshold and urban SUV comfort.
- Renault 5 E-Tech: A model with an iconic design and superior dynamics, but which offers less interior space and a smaller trunk than the 475 liters promised by Skoda.
- "Family" competition: Volkswagen ID.2all, the model with which Epiq shares its platform, will be the closest domestic rival, although Skoda is counting on the Simply Clever philosophy to win over the pragmatic public.
Availability: When will we see it in showrooms?
Although the first official images have already been published to "sweeten" the wait, the release schedule is clearly set:
- First half of 2026: Official world debut, when we will see the car without camouflage and find out the final equipment lists.
- Mid-2026: Opening of pre-order systems in Romania.
- End of 2026: The first series units are expected to reach Romanian customers and the test-drive fleets of authorized dealers.
Production of the model will be carried out at the group's plant in Pamplona, Spain, a strategic location to keep logistics costs low and the final price competitive for Eastern Europe.
Conclusion
Through Epiq, Skoda seems to have found the ideal recipe for the Romanian public: an SUV that doesn't take up much space in crowded parking lots, but offers the volume of a family vehicle, all at a price that, for the first time, makes the switch to electric propulsion no longer a prohibitive financial effort.