Another electric SUV, another global unveil from a fancy motor show. But hold on, before you scroll past thinking ‘not relevant for India,’ let’s talk about Skoda’s new Epiq EV. Because this one, folks, might just be the mass-market EV game-changer we’ve been waiting for.
Skoda officially showcased a near-production version of its smallest electric SUV, the Epiq, at the Munich Motor Show. This isn’t just some far-off concept anymore; it’s a very clear preview of what will hit global showrooms in 2026. And given Skoda’s strong ‘India 2.0’ strategy, we need to pay close attention to this 4.1-meter long electric compact SUV. Here’s what actually matters from today’s unveil, minus the fluff.
Design: Modern Solid, Built for Impact
The Epiq was first revealed as a concept back in March 2024, giving us a taste of Skoda’s new ‘Modern Solid’ design language. What we saw in Munich is a heavily evolved second iteration, remarkably close to what you’ll eventually see on the road. The core aesthetics remain, but the details are now much more refined and ready for manufacturing.
From Concept to Concrete: Key Design Elements
- Tech Deck Face: The new Skoda signature front design is prominent. It features striking T-shaped DRL signatures that integrate seamlessly, along with vertical slats on the bumper, giving it a robust yet futuristic look. This design philosophy translates well to Indian roads, offering a distinctive presence without being overly flashy.
- Tornado Line: A defining design element is the pronounced shoulder line, which Skoda affectionately calls the ‘tornado line.’ It adds a dynamic, muscular character to the side profile – something Indian buyers often appreciate in SUVs.
- Lighting: While the concept had more avant-garde lighting, the production-spec version still sports distinctive headlamps and tail lamps that carry the T-shaped theme, ensuring it stands out, even in crowded urban environments.
“The Skoda Epiq is more than just another electric car; it’s a statement. It shows how modern design can be practical, robust, and visually appealing – crucial attributes for the Indian market where vehicles need to endure diverse conditions while making an impression.”
Interior & Practicality: Space and Smarts for Indian Families
Skoda hasn’t yet pulled the wraps off the production-spec interior, but the concept gave us a very clear direction. Expect a minimalist cabin dominated by a large central infotainment screen. However, knowing Skoda, they aren’t abandoning usability for screens alone.
Thoughtful Cabin for Everyday Life
- Balanced Interface: Skoda promises a mix of physical buttons on the centre console and haptic scroll wheels on a new two-spoke steering wheel. This is a big win for Indian drivers who often prefer tactile controls, especially when navigating our unique traffic conditions.
- Clever Storage: Practicality is a Skoda hallmark. The Epiq’s interior will feature smart storage solutions like bag hooks, fasteners, and hidden underfloor compartments. Imagine your weekly grocery run or a road trip with the family; these small touches make a huge difference.
- Spaciousness: Despite its compact 4.1-meter length, Skoda claims the Epiq will comfortably seat five passengers. This is a critical factor for the Indian market, where cars often double as family movers. The generous 475-litre boot space is also commendable for its segment, easily swallowing luggage for a weekend getaway.
Powertrain & Platform: The Foundation of Electric Mobility
The Epiq leverages the Volkswagen Group’s MEB Entry architecture. Think of this platform as a flexible, modular toolkit specifically designed for smaller, more affordable electric vehicles. It’s the same base that underpins other upcoming small VW Group EVs, like the reborn VW ID.Polo EV.
Performance & Range that Matters
- Expected Range: Skoda promises an impressive range of up to 425km on a single charge. For the average Indian user, this is more than sufficient for daily commutes and even allows for inter-city travel, say, from Delhi to Jaipur, with range to spare.
- Battery Options: We expect two battery sizes: a 38kWh option, likely for a more accessible price point, and a larger 56kWh pack for those seeking maximum range. This caters to different budgets and usage patterns.
- Front-Wheel Drive: The Epiq is expected to come in a front-wheel-drive configuration, which is typical for this segment and perfectly suited for urban and highway driving.
- V2V & V2L Capabilities: Here’s where it gets really interesting for India. Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) charging capabilities mean your Epiq can not only charge other EVs but also power external appliances. Imagine using your car to power essential home appliances during a power cut, or running camping equipment on a road trip. This adds a layer of utility that goes beyond just mobility.
Pricing & India Outlook: The Game Changer?
Perhaps the most significant piece of information for the Indian market is Skoda’s stated goal: the Epiq will be “priced to match its petrol-powered counterpart, the Kamiq.” The Kamiq is a popular compact SUV in Europe, roughly similar in positioning to models like our Skoda Kushaq.
If Skoda can truly bring the Epiq to India with a price tag competitive with petrol SUVs in the ₹12-18 lakh bracket (ex-showroom), it changes the entire EV landscape. This would put it squarely against established players like the Tata Nexon EV Max, Mahindra XUV400, and upcoming Hyundai Creta EV, offering a premium European alternative at an accessible price point.
The global sale begins in 2026. This gives Skoda India crucial time to build out its charging network partnerships and educate the market. With its focus on practicality, impressive range, and potentially aggressive pricing, the Epiq has all the ingredients to be a serious contender in India’s rapidly growing EV segment.
Skoda also plans to launch a larger Vision 7S-based electric SUV around the same time, serving as an EV equivalent to the Kodiaq. But for now, the Epiq is the one holding our attention, promising to democratize European electric mobility for the Indian masses.
What are your thoughts on the Skoda Epiq? Does it tick the right boxes for an Indian EV buyer? Let us know! And if you have any questions about the Epiq or EVs in general, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
