Skoda Elroq (2024 - )

The world has gone mad with SUVs – but that's been true for a while now. There are many SUVs of every size and shape – and increasingly compact versions are the choice. Why? They are similar in size to hatchbacks and offer a higher riding position, making it easier to see where you're going, especially in crowded town centres or high-volume traffic scenarios like the hectic school run. As electrification tightens its grip, pure electric compact electric vehicles (EVs) are naturally being ushered in – and the Elroq - the smaller brother of the Enyaq - is, according to Skoda, one of the most affordable EVs in its segment. It should also be viewed as the electric alternative to the combustion-engined Karoq, offering price parity. You could say the Elroq rocks. You could, but does it? Let’s find out, writes Tim Barnes-Clay. 

The Elroq is immediately distinguishable by its clean lines and fresh, bold shape – making it the first car from Skoda to wear what the Czech brand calls the new ‘Modern Solid’ design. Instead of a conventional grille, the compact SUV has a shiny black ‘Tech-Deck Face’, but it’s still unmistakably a Skoda when you first look at it. 
A chunky front bumper and lights resembling four eyes sitting below the curved edge of the bonnet all work to make the Elroq look very handsome indeed. These 'eyes' are daytime running lights and indicators, but bigger lower units provide low-beam and high-beam lighting. The electric SUV also proudly bears Skoda lettering on the front centre of the bonnet instead of the marque’s badge. It is the first production model from the manufacturer to kick the traditional Skoda logo to the kerb. 
Of course, the SportLine variant is a rather sexy trim level for Skoda, so the Elroq – the company’s second all-electric SUV after the Enyaq has carried on using it. This grade comes with two battery options, 60 and 85 - and we drove the latter. It boasts gloss black mirror caps and has the same polished black look on its roof rails and side window trims. A rear apron insert is also sprayed in the same shade, as is a spoiler on the front bumper. And so that no one is left in any doubt about what you're driving, a SportLine badge is stuck firmly to the tailgate. On any other trim, the battery capacity is labelled there instead. 
The Elroq's infotainment system features a 13-inch screen with a user-friendly interface, a crystal-clear menu structure, and a responsive touch capability. Refreshingly, in addition to a touchscreen, there’s a strip of physical buttons, making everything easier to activate on the move. Additionally, Skoda's voice assistant, Laura, has been developed further with Chat GPT, providing an involving interaction experience; we had no issues when asking 'her' questions. 
 

Like most EVs, the Skoda Elroq has a single-speed transmission. Its electric motor is attached to the back axle, delivering instant drive to the rear wheels. The Elroq 85 offers rousing performance, reaching 62mph in 6.6 seconds. The model's aerodynamic design allows for a top speed of 111 mph, with a drag coefficient of 0.26.
The Elroq’s strength is cruising. Thanks to its robust build quality and acoustic insulation, the compact SUV is refined at motorway pace, quelling tyre roar and wind noise. That is not to say it's faultless. The SportLine version has stiffer springs, shock absorbers, and a progressive steering system for nattier handling. This set-up provides the Skoda with great grip - but the ride takes on a firm character, which makes it fidgety and less together over uneven rural roads - or on patchy urban tarmac. In no way is this a dealbreaker, though - and when throwing a U-turn, any shortcomings are put behind you, as the Elroq's small turning circle makes life uncomplicated - especially in town.
 

Besides scratchy plastic interior door grabs, the Elroq enjoys high-quality materials and hardy construction. It provides room for five people - but three kids will be happier in the back than three rugby-playing brutes. Two big blokes in the back are fine, though. There is notable legroom in the rear; a six-footer can easily sit behind another six-footer without their knees brushing the front seats. 

The boot has a cargo capacity of 470 litres, which increases to 1,580 litres with the rear seats folded down. Additionally, Skoda's 'Simply Clever' features aid practicality with thoughtful storage solutions, including compartments in the boot for charging cables and stowage trays.

The SportLine design has a dark aesthetic, which could make you feel claustrophobic on a dull day. It has black sports seats - which can feel a tad too firm after a long drive - with integrated head restraints upholstered in microsuede and reproduction leather. The heated, three-spoke steering wheel raises the interior's sporty feel, complemented by carbon fibre-look dashboard embellishments and stainless-steel pedal coverings. Stock equipment includes wireless charging and keyless entry.

Skoda is known for building well-made, value-packed vehicles. The Elroq continues this tradition, driving pleasingly and offering an impressive range. 
The compact SUV has three powertrain options: 50, 60, and 85, along with SE, SEL, Edition, and SportLine trims. The flagship SportLine 85 we drove houses an 82kWh (77kWh net) battery pack with a range of 360 miles. What's more, charging rates of up to 175 kW at DC fast-charging stations enable the Elroq 85's battery to recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in under half an hour. 
No fossil fuel means the Elroq’s running costs will be cheap, especially if you charge it - albeit in a slower way - at home. Zero emissions also mean the Skoda will be favourably treated for Benefit in Kind tax, which will please you if you’re a company car user. Additionally, EV road tax costs nothing for now, although you'll have to fork out from April 2025.
The Elroq is also backed by a three-year, 60,000-mileage warranty, while the battery is covered for eight years or 100,000 miles.
 

Skoda is recognised for producing well-crafted, value-packed vehicles, and the Czech marque’s latest offering continues this legacy, providing a fundamentally satisfying driving experience and a superb electric driving range. 
The Elroq is an excellent choice, offering spaciousness, high-quality construction, and a wide range of standard features. This energetic performer is attractive, efficient, and practical - and has a bright future. 
As the brand's first electric entrant in the compact SUV segment, the Skoda Elroq will fulfil you if the Renault Scenic E-Tech or Kia EV3 don’t quite do it for you. So, yes, the Elroq does indeed rock!