Our Rating
4/5
Pros
Cons
Introduction
The Enyaq iV is one of Skoda’s most important cars ever, arriving as its first bespoke electric car in 2021. It has already proven very popular, not only to loyal Skoda customers but to a new audience as well.
Skoda’s already expanded the line-up with a sleeker Coupe version, but now the firm is introducing a sportier vRS version – a nameplate that’s synonymous with performance Skodas, such as the Octavia, Kodiaq and Fabia. Recently launched on the Coupe version, the firm is now introducing a vRS version to the regular Enyaq SUV.
Offering more practicality than the Coupe model, it’s also slightly cheaper too, while bringing a range of styling and mechanical changes to enhance the way it looks and drives. But is it worth considering?
Performance
Skoda already offers three versions of the Enyaq – the 60, 80 and 80X.
It’s the latter model that is closest to the vRS, though here Skoda gives it a 35bhp boost – with its twin electric motors producing 295bhp and 460Nm of torque. All-wheel-drive is also provided.
Accelerating from 0-60mph takes 6.3 seconds – a 0.6-second saving off the 80X’s time, with the model able to reach a top speed of 111mph.
A 77kWh battery is also used, which Skoda claims allows for 321 miles of range from a full charge – 18 miles less than the regular Enyaq ‘80’. It can also charge at up to 135kW, enabling a 0-80 per cent charge to take place in as little as 35 minutes if hooked up to a 150kW rapid charger.
Ride and handling
There aren’t too many ‘sporty’ changes at play here, though Skoda has fitted a sportier suspension setup – lowering the car by 15mm at the front and 10mm at the rear. There’s plenty of power on offer, too, with the all-wheel-drive system offering a good amount of traction.
The only trouble is that it doesn’t feel too much different to a standard Enyaq to drive, and perhaps lacks some of the excitement from previous Skoda vRS models. That said, with a generous range and great comfort and refinement over long distances, it’s ideal for those doing lots of miles in their EV.
Interior
Skoda offers two interior specifications with the Enyaq vRS – Lounge and Suite. The former is the sportier option thanks to its black Alcantara accents and lime green stitching throughout, while the Suite gets a more traditional look with its black perforated leather seats and grey stitching.
Like the standard Enyaq, the quality and technology on offer with the Enyaq is excellent, while there’s a great deal of space around the interior too. Boot space is improved over the Coupe, and it’s no less practical than a standard Enyaq, either. It measures 585 litres with the rear seats upright, or an impressive 1,710 litres once they’re folded.
Equipment
Just a single trim is offered on the Enyaq if you opt for the vRS, though as this sits at the top of the line-up, the level of equipment is very generous.
Standard features include 20-inch alloy wheels, a large 13-inch touchscreen, heated sports seats and an illuminated grille that Skoda calls a ‘Crystal Face’.
Cost
Prices for the Enyaq vRS start from £52,670, and though this seems quite a lot of money, it’s only an additional £905 over the 80X in SportLine Plus grade. It also comes in at £1,700 cheaper than the Coupe model, too.
However, you need to be careful with the optional extras you choose, as the price can quickly rack up – particularly if you choose the ‘Maxx’ package, which brings electric front seats, dynamic chassis control and a 360-degree camera system.
Verdict
If you like having the tip-top model, the Enyaq vRS undoubtedly has huge appeal. Looking suitably sportier than other versions in the line-up, it’s also got the performance to go with it.
While perhaps not as ‘vRS’ as we’d have liked, there’s no denying the Enyaq is a capable, practical and stylish EV that will tick plenty of boxes for buyers.
