ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS PREVIEWS THE REVISED SKODA ENYAQ

Launched in 2020, the Skoda Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe have made EV driving a reality for over 250,000 customers and now the new series brings fresh options and improvements including an even more stylish design and even greater range.

The range improvement will be widely appreciated, a key factor for those who decide to own an EV. Several features and adaptations now enhance the Enyaq’s already outstanding aerodynamics; these include the new front with its modern solid design, marked by a slimmer Tech-Deck face with a smoother transition to the bonnet, optimised air curtains, a sealed gap between the radiator and grille, and newly designed aerodynamic wheels. This translates to a drag coefficient as low as 0.245, versus 0.255 for the previous model, while the Coupe achieves an even lower drag coefficient starting at 0.229, compared to the previous 0.240, making it the most aerodynamic model in the company’s current range.

The lithium-ion battery comprises nine modules, each with 12 battery cells, giving it a total gross capacity of 63 kWh, combined with a 204 PS (150 kW) synchronous electric motor with permanent magnets on the rear axle, which delivers a maximum torque of 310 Nm to the rear wheels. Looking at performance, top speed is 160kph (99 mph), while the Enyaq 85 variant also has an electric motor and rear-wheel drive but comes with a larger lithium-ion battery offering a gross capacity of 82 kWh. It also consists of twelve modules, each with 16 battery cells and the motor produces an output of 286 PS (210 kW) and a maximum torque of 545 Nm. The Enyaq 85x featuring a second, asynchronous electric motor on the front axle enabling all-wheel drive also comes with the larger battery consisting of twelve modules, each with 24 battery cells. The all-wheel drive continuously adjusts the power transmitted to the front wheels, reducing energy consumption while enhancing directional stability. Both versions deliver a top speed of 180kph (111 mph). All models support high charging rates: up to 165 kW for the Enyaq 60 and a maximum of 175 kW for the Enyaq 85x. The larger battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in 28 minutes at DC fast-charging stations; the Enyaq 60 in just 24 minutes. A new feature of the new 85 and 85x models is bidirectional DC charging, this function allows the battery to double as a supplementary energy storage unit for the home. With a suitable DC wall box for bidirectional charging and, for example, a home battery storage system, users will be able to control the flow of electricity to and from the car according to their preferences, based on current electricity prices, or in the event of a power cut.

Stopping power, the front axle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes and single-piston callipers for the Enyaq 60 and twin-piston callipers for the Enyaq 85 and Enyaq 85x, while the rear axle features drum brakes, ideal for electric vehicles that rely primarily on regenerative braking. According to the manufacturer, handling is ensured by a MacPherson front suspension with lower triangular arms and a transverse torsion stabiliser, paired with a multi link suspension with five transverse arms and torsion stabiliser at the rear. A well designed interior with its timeless design, outstanding ergonomics and intuitive controls. There is ample space for passengers as well as generous luggage capacity, boot is 585litres, and fold down the rear seats to discover1, 710 litres, there is marginally less with the Coupe version. Technology abounds with a five inch digital cockpit and central thirteen inch infotainment display as standard. Head-up display with augmented reality is optionally available as part of the Advanced package (this standard on SportLine versions).

Good news for chilly mornings, a redesigned steering wheel is now heated as standard; other equipment includes keyless entry and start/stop system with walk away locking as well as heated front seats, 3-zone Climatronic and tow bar preparation. In addition, there are four convenient options packages: Advanced, Maxx, Transport and Winter.

Ian Lynas