Skoda previews €25,000 Epiq compact SUV
The Volkswagen Group’s appearance at the IAA revolves around the upcoming family of compact electric cars. Just last week, VW introduced the new naming scheme for its EVs, starting with the ID. Polo (formerly ID.2), which will debut in 2026. The German carmaker also gave a preview of the corresponding SUV, which – under the new naming logic – will launch as the ID. Cross rather than ID.2 X, in reference to the combustion-engined T-Cross.
That Skoda’s SUV equivalent will be called Epiq has been known since spring 2024, when the brand released the first renderings. Now, at IAA Mobility in Munich, Skoda has shown the near-production concept, which already closely resembles the series model due for its world premiere in mid-2026 – at least according to the company’s current announcement.
In refining the 2024 design study for the production-ready preview, Skoda’s designers largely kept the look but adapted it to meet production requirements. The “Tech-Deck Face” seen on current Skoda EVs also features on the Epiq and remains close to what Skoda showed in March 2024 – including the suggested grille and LED light signature. The area around the headlights and lower air intake also stays close to the original study but has been subtly reworked. And unlike in 2024, the front now features a mount for a number plate.
From the side, the production-spec mirrors and larger door handle recesses stand out, but otherwise the Epiq stays close to the original. The rear, however, has seen more adjustments on the way to production. While the rear lights retain a similar shape, the vertical element is slightly shorter, and the vertical lighting is now split into two lines instead of a single horizontal light bar as shown in 2024. The Skoda lettering between the rear lights on the boot lid is no longer illuminated – presumably for cost reasons. Still, the eight design elements in the rear bumper that echo the look of the front air intake will carry over to production.
At 4.1 metres, the Epiq will be slightly shorter than the ID. Cross, which VW lists at 4.16 metres. Skoda has not revealed the wheelbase, but it will match the 2.60 metres of its VW sibling. With 475 litres, however, Skoda promises a slightly larger boot than the ID. Cross (450 litres) while still offering comfortable space for five passengers.
In terms of technology, Skoda mentions only a WLTP range of up to 425 kilometres – very close to the ID. Cross’s 420 kilometres. This figure applies to the optional NMC battery, which is expected to provide around 58 kWh, though the figure has not yet been officially confirmed. Beneath it will sit a more affordable base version with an LFP battery. As with other front-wheel-drive MEB small cars, the charging port sits on the passenger side between the front wheel and the door.
“The starting price of the future production model is expected to be comparable with its ICE counterpart, the Kamiq, in many markets,” Skoda says. In Germany, the Kamiq starts at €25,330. Production is scheduled to begin next year, with the Epiq built alongside the ID. Cross at VW’s Pamplona plant in Spain. Skoda has pencilled in the world premiere of the series model for mid-2025. For comparison, the ID. Polo will debut in May 2026, while the ID. Cross will follow in summer.
“The Epiq show car offers a concrete glimpse into the next addition to Skoda’s successful all-electric family,” says brand boss Klaus Zellmer. “It embodies the essence of Skoda: Modern Solid design, a spacious interior within a compact footprint, user-friendly, intuitive digital interfaces, and Simply Clever details that ensure a seamless experience – all at an attractive price point. With the Epiq, we’re taking another step towards making electric cars a practical and compelling choice for everyday drivers.”
This article was first published by Sebastian Schaal for electrive’s German edition.
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