Skoda is fundamentally redefining its footprint in the electric vehicle sector, moving beyond compact crossovers to challenge the upper echelons of the family SUV market. The introduction of the Skoda Peaq seven-seater electric SUV represents the most ambitious scaling of a passenger vehicle in the company’s history, signaling a strategic shift toward high-capacity, premium electric mobility.
The Peaq arrives at a pivotal moment for the Czech manufacturer. While the Elroq and Enyaq have already established a strong foothold—with combined sales reaching 170,000 units—the company is now filling a critical gap in its portfolio. By targeting the large-SUV segment, Skoda is positioning itself against formidable competitors such as the Hyundai Ioniq 9, the BYD Tang, and the Mercedes GLB, moving into a space where interior volume and long-distance capability are the primary currencies.
This expansion comes alongside a broader geopolitical pivot. To sustain its growth in Europe and other emerging Asian markets, Skoda has made the strategic decision to exit the Chinese market entirely. This retreat allows the brand to concentrate its resources on the development and production of high-margin models like the Peaq, which will be designed and manufactured at the company’s home base in Mladá Boleslav.
Engineering for Volume: Beyond the Kodiaq
For years, the Kodiaq served as the benchmark for Skoda’s family utility. However, the Peaq leverages the advantages of a dedicated electric platform to surpass its predecessor in nearly every spatial metric. The vehicle is notably longer and features a significantly extended wheelbase, which translates directly into increased legroom and headroom for passengers in both the second and third rows.
Practicality remains central to the design. In addition to a rear cargo area that exceeds that of the Kodiaq, the Peaq incorporates a “frunk” (front trunk) capable of housing the charging cable, a tire repair kit, and emergency equipment. The brand has similarly introduced new “Simply Clever” refinements, including a dedicated sponge-lined cleaner for charging cables to maintain hygiene during apply.
| Metric | Skoda Peaq (2026-) | Skoda Kodiaq (2024-) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,874 mm | 4,758 mm | +11.6 cm |
| Wheelbase | 2,965 mm | 2,791 mm | +17.4 cm |
| Cargo Volume (5 seats) | 970 Liters (935+35) | 910 Liters | +60 Liters |
Powertrain Options and Range Performance
To appeal to a diverse range of buyers, from urban families to long-distance travelers, Skoda is offering three distinct powertrain configurations. The entry-level Peaq 60 utilizes a 63 kWh battery, providing a WLTP range of over 460 kilometers. For those requiring more endurance, the Peaq 90 and 90x variants feature a larger 91 kWh battery, pushing the range beyond the 600-kilometer mark.
Performance is scaled accordingly. While the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) versions prioritize efficiency, the Peaq 90x introduces all-wheel drive (AWD) and a power output of 220 kW (300 hp), enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration in approximately 6.7 seconds. Charging infrastructure is equally prioritized, with DC fast-charging capable of replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% in roughly 27 to 28 minutes.
| Model | Battery (Gross) | WLTP Range | Power Output | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peaq 60 | 63 kWh | > 460 km | 150 kW (204 hp) | RWD |
| Peaq 90 | 91 kWh | > 600 km | 210 kW (286 hp) | RWD |
| Peaq 90x | 91 kWh | > 600 km | 220 kW (300 hp) | AWD |
Integrating Luxury and Energy Versatility
The Peaq is designed as the flagship of the Skoda lineup, and the interior reflects this premium positioning. The cabin retains physical controls for essential functions, avoiding the total digitization trend that has polarized some consumers. This is paired with a high-tech interface consisting of a 10-inch driver’s display and a 13.6-inch central touchscreen running Android Automotive, providing native integration for Google Maps and Spotify.
Beyond infotainment, the Peaq introduces advanced energy management. The vehicle supports both Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology. Through the “Moon Power” charging hub, the Peaq can act as a mobile 230V power source for external devices or feed energy back into a home’s electrical system during peak demand.
Comfort is further enhanced by the “Relax Package,” which includes AGR-certified massage seats and electrically adjustable leg rests. A 2.12-square-meter electrochromic panoramic roof allows passengers to adjust the transparency of the glass, while a premium audio system developed in collaboration with Sonos ensures a high-fidelity acoustic experience.
Technical Innovations and Driver Assistance
Skoda has integrated several niche technical solutions to improve the ownership experience. These include washer nozzles built directly into the wiper blades—a feature common in heavy-duty trucks—and a rear-view camera with its own dedicated cleaning system to ensure visibility in poor weather. The exterior is streamlined with electronically retractable door handles, reducing drag and enhancing the vehicle’s modern aesthetic.
The driving dynamics are managed by an adaptive damping system, allowing the driver to toggle between a softer, family-oriented ride and a firmer, sportier setting. While early pre-series tests suggest an average energy consumption of approximately 16.5 kWh/100 km, final efficiency figures will be confirmed upon the release of the production model.
The Road to Market
The Peaq represents more than just a new model; This proves a demonstration of Skoda’s current engineering ceiling. By combining the utility of a seven-passenger vehicle with the range and tech of a premium EV, the brand is attempting to prove that “Czech ingenuity” can compete with both established luxury marques and aggressive newcomers from Asia.
The final production version of the Peaq is scheduled for a full reveal in the summer, at which point official pricing and final equipment lists will be published. Skoda plans to open the order books by the end of the year, with the first customer deliveries expected to start in 2026. For more information on the brand’s electric transition, official updates are typically released via the Skoda Auto official newsroom.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the shift toward larger electric SUVs in the comments below. Do you believe the seven-seater format is the key to mass EV adoption for families?
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