Skoda Epiq: Which Trim and Battery Offer the Best Value
Skoda's new Epiq electric car has reached Latvia and has been entered in the Latvian Car of the Year contest. A TV Autoziņas review explains which model, trim and battery make the most sense.
The new Skoda Epiq, an electric car from the Czech carmaker Skoda, has arrived in Latvia and has been entered in the Latvian Car of the Year contest. The TV Autoziņas programme first saw the model at its global presentation in Austria, and its latest review explains how to pick the best-value version. This matters to buyers because the final price varies considerably with the chosen model and options.
Models and prices
Skoda currently offers three Epiq versions: 35, 40 and 55. They come with three motor power levels, two battery sizes and only two trim levels, Essence and Selection.
The most powerful variant, with 211 horsepower and the largest battery, is available in Selection trim and costs around 38,000 euros. The reviewers admit this is not what they had hoped for. They see a better choice in the middle trim with the smaller battery and 135 horsepower. That car costs up to 30,000 euros, and with EKKI support (a state incentive for electric vehicles) the price comes close to the hoped-for 25,000 euros.
Essence or Selection
For the Epiq 40, the price gap between Essence and Selection is about 1,500 euros, and for the Epiq 55 it is even smaller. The review therefore recommends going for Selection. It offers extras unavailable elsewhere, such as optional LED matrix headlights, and an umbrella stored in the door.
Battery and interior
Choosing the largest battery again pushes the price above 30,000 euros. The smaller battery gives 100 km less range, but charges 1.5 hours faster from a home Wallbox charger.
The interior comes in four finishes, from black Studio to suede-like Suite, with grey Loft and greenish-grey Mint in between. A heated steering wheel and seats are now standard, but the panoramic roof (740 euros) and power-adjustable seats (1,200 euros) can be skipped. The reviewers recommend the technology package, which includes a 360-degree camera and a better audio system.
Epiq wheels start at 17 inches, with more attractive options at 18 or 19 inches. Larger wheels raise consumption, so the reviewers advise saving kilometres.
