By Car Review Expert | Published May 29, 2025

The Škoda Enyaq is a standout electric SUV, blending sleek design, impressive performance, and family-friendly practicality. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, it offers a near-600 km WLTP range, a 210 kW rear-wheel-drive motor, and a spacious 570-liter boot. Priced at ~$50,000 USD (converted from ~$70,000 AUD), it competes with the Tesla Model Y (~$47,000), Volkswagen ID.4 (~$40,000), and Hyundai Ioniq 5 (~$46,000). With a smooth ride, modern tech, and Škoda’s signature practicality, the Enyaq is a compelling choice for U.S. buyers seeking an EV that balances value and premium features.

Why Choose the Škoda Enyaq?
Since its 2020 debut, the Škoda Enyaq has gained traction in Europe, with over 40,000 units sold by 2024. While new to North America, its blend of affordability, range, and style positions it as a strong alternative to pricier EVs. The Sportline trim (~$50,000) offers value over the Tesla Model Y, with a 77 kWh battery and 175 kW DC fast charging. Drawing from Paul Maric’s expert review (Škoda Enyaq review: Best EV from Škoda?), here are the top 10 reasons to buy the Škoda Enyaq, tailored for U.S. buyers.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy the Škoda Enyaq

1. Impressive Driving Range for Long Trips

The Škoda Enyaq’s near-600 km WLTP range (~373 miles EPA estimated) is a game-changer for drivers who need an EV capable of long-distance travel without frequent charging stops. Its 77 kWh (net) battery ensures reliability for cross-country trips or daily commutes, making it a top contender in its class.

• Real-World Performance: Delivers ~300–340 miles in real-world conditions, factoring in variables like cold weather, highway speeds, or heavy AC use, as tested in varied environments.
• Battery Efficiency: Škoda claims ~16 kWh/100 km, though Paul Maric’s review noted 19.9 kWh/100 km, still competitive for a mid-size SUV with 21-inch wheels.
• Competitive Edge: Outranges the Volkswagen ID.4 (~260 miles) and closely matches the Tesla Model Y Long Range (~330 miles), offering similar capability at a competitive price.
• Charging Strategy: Optimized for 20–80% charging to maximize battery longevity, ideal for owners planning to keep the vehicle for years.
• Practical Use Case: For example, a Seattle-to-Portland round trip (~180 miles) can be completed without recharging, with range to spare for local errands.
  Why Buy? The Enyaq’s range is perfect for Seattle-to-Portland road trips or Miami commutes, offering peace of mind for U.S. drivers seeking long-range EVs without breaking the bank.
  Score: 9.3/10

2. Sleek and Distinctive Styling

The Enyaq’s modern, aggressive design sets it apart from other EVs on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, with a sporty coupe-SUV silhouette that appeals to style-conscious buyers. The upcoming facelift adds a traditional SUV shape for broader appeal.

• Front Design: Features a bold blacked-out grille, matrix LED headlights with integrated washers, and a sleek hood that exudes sophistication.
• Wheels: Striking 21-inch alloy wheels with a machine-finish design fill the arches, enhancing the Enyaq’s premium aesthetic.
• Rear Styling: Full LED taillights and a sloping roofline create a dynamic, sporty look, with the facelift offering a boxier SUV option for traditionalists.
• Accents and Features: Privacy glass, a panoramic glass roof, and side indicators in wing mirrors add flair and functionality.
• Differentiation: Despite sharing the MEB platform, the Enyaq’s longer wheelbase and unique styling distinguish it from the ID.4, as noted in the review.
• Customization Options: Available in vibrant colors like Arctic Silver or Race Blue, with optional packages for adaptive damping to enhance both looks and ride.
  Why Buy? The Enyaq’s bold aesthetic turns heads in Chicago or Los Angeles, offering a sharper look than the Hyundai Ioniq 5’s softer curves.
  Score: 9.0/10

3. Smooth and Comfortable Ride

The Enyaq delivers a plush, comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease, even on its large 21-inch wheels, setting it apart from firmer competitors like the Tesla Model Y.

• Suspension Design: The standard suspension handles urban roads effortlessly, with optional adaptive damping for even smoother performance on highways or rough surfaces.
• Real-World Testing: Paul Maric’s review praises its ability to soak up bumps on city streets, unlike the Model Y or Ford Mustang Mach-E, which feel stiff.
• Noise Insulation: Excellent soundproofing minimizes tire and road noise, creating a serene cabin for passengers.
• Comfort Features: Dual-zone climate control and heated front seats enhance comfort for long drives, ideal for cold U.S. climates.
• Practical Example: A commute through Boston’s pothole-ridden streets feels smooth, reducing driver fatigue and ensuring passenger comfort.
  Why Buy? Ideal for Phoenix commuters or Boston families seeking a comfortable EV that rivals luxury SUVs in ride quality.
  Score: 9.1/10

4. Engaging Rear-Wheel Drive Performance

The Enyaq’s rear-wheel-drive setup with a 210 kW motor (550 Nm torque) delivers a fun, balanced driving experience, avoiding the torque steer common in front-wheel-drive EVs.

• Power Delivery: Offers peppy acceleration, with a “pointy” feel in Sport mode that produces tire chirps during hard launches, as noted in the review.
• Drive Modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual modes allow drivers to tailor performance for efficiency or thrill, with Sport mode sharpening throttle response.
• Regenerative Braking: Paddle shifters provide three levels of regen, though the lack of true one-pedal driving is a minor drawback compared to rivals like the Ioniq 5.
• Handling Dynamics: Minimal body roll and responsive brake pedal feel make it agile in corners, ideal for twisty roads.
• Use Case: Navigating Denver’s mountain roads in Sport mode feels engaging, while Eco mode suits Atlanta’s stop-and-go traffic.
  Why Buy? Excites Denver enthusiasts with its dynamic handling while remaining practical for Atlanta’s daily commutes.
  Score: 8.9/10

5. Spacious and Family-Friendly Interior

The Enyaq’s 570-liter boot (expandable to 1,600 liters) and roomy cabin make it a practical choice for families or those needing versatile storage.

• Cargo Capacity: Offers ample boot space with underfloor storage for hiding valuables, ideal for shopping trips or camping gear.
• Rear Seats: Provides decent knee room, third-zone climate control, USB-C ports, and privacy blinds for rear passengers.
• Family Features: Individual child locks, map pockets with phone storage, and a ski hatch enhance usability for parents or outdoor enthusiasts.
• Versatility: 60/40 split-fold seats create a near-flat load space, though a slight incline exists, as noted in the review.
• Practical Example: A Dallas family can fit strollers, groceries, and sports equipment for a weekend outing with ease.
  Why Buy? Perfect for Dallas families or Chicago road trips, matching the Model Y’s practicality at a competitive price.
  Score: 8.8/10

6. Premium Cabin with Quality Materials

The Enyaq’s interior blends soft-touch materials, Alcantara-style seats, and carbon-fiber accents for a premium yet understated feel that rivals pricier EVs.

• Material Quality: Features a leather-wrapped dash, perforated Alcantara-style seats, and piano black trim for a refined look.
• Seating Comfort: Electric driver’s seat with memory settings and manual passenger adjustment ensure personalized comfort.
• Build Quality: Solid construction with minimal squeaks, as tested by Maric, with a satisfying door slam sound.
• Critique: The dark color scheme could benefit from brighter options, but the overall quality feels upscale for ~$50,000.
• Use Case: Seattle executives will appreciate the premium cabin during long commutes or client meetings.
  Why Buy? Appeals to Seattle professionals seeking luxury at a lower price than the Ioniq 5 or Model Y.
  Score: 8.7/10

7. Modern and Intuitive Technology

The 13-inch infotainment system and physical controls make the Enyaq user-friendly, though it lacks some features found in competitors.

• Touchscreen: Fast, responsive 13-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an 8-speaker sound system for seamless connectivity.
• Physical Controls: Steering wheel buttons and rollers are intuitive, avoiding the frustration of touch-only interfaces in rivals like the ID.4.
• Driver Display: A 5-inch digital screen with an anti-glare hood provides clear, customizable information like range or speed.
• Drawbacks: No inbuilt navigation or scheduled charging, requiring smartphone apps for navigation or external timers for off-peak charging.
• Use Case: Miami drivers can easily connect their phones for navigation or music streaming on long coastal drives.
  Why Buy? Suits tech-savvy Miami drivers, offering a user-friendly interface that outpaces the ID.4’s similar system.
  Score: 8.5/10

8. Fast and Efficient Charging

The Enyaq’s 175 kW DC fast charging and 11 kW AC charging ensure quick, convenient top-ups, making it practical for U.S. owners with access to charging networks.

• Charging Speeds: Reaches 80% in ~30 minutes with DC fast chargers; 11 kW AC supports three-phase home charging in ~7–8 hours.
• Battery Type: 77 kWh NCM lithium-ion battery, optimized for 20–80% charging to extend lifespan, as recommended in the review.
• Charging Networks: Compatible with Electrify America and ChargePoint stations, widely available in the U.S.
• Critique: Lacks scheduled charging, a miss for owners aiming to save with off-peak rates, though software updates may address this.
• Use Case: A Phoenix owner can charge at a fast charger during a lunch break, adding ~200 miles in 30 minutes.
  Why Buy? Ideal for Phoenix owners with access to fast chargers, rivaling the Model Y’s 250 kW charging speed.
  Score: 8.6/10

9. Quiet and Refined Cabin

The Enyaq’s excellent noise insulation creates a serene driving experience, making it ideal for families or long-distance commuters.

• Tire Noise Reduction: Minimal noise on coarse roads, outperforming many EVs, as noted in the review, thanks to robust insulation.
• Visibility: Large wing mirrors and decent rear visibility enhance safety and driver confidence in urban settings.
• Cabin Ambiance: Quiet interior supports conversations, music, or audiobooks without road noise interference.
• Family Appeal: A serene environment is perfect for kids napping or adults relaxing on long drives.
• Use Case: Boston families will enjoy a peaceful ride during school runs or weekend getaways.
  Why Buy? A top choice for Boston families seeking a quiet, refined EV for daily use or long trips.
  Score: 8.8/10

10. Škoda’s Signature Practicality

The Enyaq incorporates clever, practical features that reflect Škoda’s heritage of user-focused design, enhancing everyday usability.

• Unique Features: A door-mounted umbrella holder, a Škoda hallmark, adds convenience for rainy U.S. climates like Seattle.
• Storage Solutions: Deep center console and underfloor boot storage, though the small glovebox and lack of concealed storage are drawbacks.
• Connectivity: Two USB-C ports and a wireless charger keep devices powered for long trips or daily commutes.
• Critique: Unconcealed storage leaves valuables exposed, a minor flaw for urban drivers.
• Use Case: Chicago commuters can store essentials like laptops or umbrellas easily, with space for groceries or gear.
  Why Buy? Enhances daily usability for Chicago commuters or Denver families with thoughtful, practical touches.
  Score: 8.5/10

Comparison Table: Škoda Enyaq vs. Rivals

Feature	Škoda Enyaq	Tesla Model Y (Long Range)	Volkswagen ID.4	Hyundai Ioniq 5
Price (USD)	~$50,000 (Sportline)	~$47,000	~$40,000	~$46,000
Driving Range (EPA)	~300–340 miles	~330 miles	~260 miles	~303 miles
Drive Type	Rear-wheel drive	All-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	Rear/All-wheel drive
Cargo (L)	570–1,600	854–2,158	543–1,575	531–1,600
Charging (DC)	175 kW	250 kW	135 kW	350 kW
Ride Comfort	Smooth, plush	Firm	Smooth, softer tires	Balanced
Infotainment	13-inch touchscreen, CarPlay	15-inch touchscreen	12-inch touchscreen	12.3-inch touchscreen
Unique Features	Umbrella holder, privacy blinds	Autopilot, OTA updates	Affordable price	Ultra-fast charging

Notes: Prices estimated (USD); range per EPA/real-world tests.

Drawbacks to Consider

• Missing Features: No 360-degree camera or scheduled charging at ~$50,000.
• Storage Limits: Small glovebox and unconcealed storage areas.
• Infotainment Gaps: No inbuilt navigation, requiring smartphone mirroring.
• Energy Efficiency: 19.9 kWh/100 km in testing, higher than claimed 16 kWh.
• Regen Braking: Lacks true one-pedal driving, unlike some rivals.

Buying Tips for U.S. Buyers

• Choose Sportline Trim: ~$50,000 for value and features.
• Test Drive: Experience Sport mode and ride comfort on local roads.
• Budget Fuel: Plan ~$1,200/year for 15,000 miles at ~$0.15/kWh.
• Compare Rivals: Test Model Y ($47,000) or ID.4 ($40,000) for value.
• Seek Deals: Look for 2025 incentives, potentially saving ~$3,000.
• Visit Dealers: Škoda’s expanding U.S. network ensures support.

Who Should Buy the Škoda Enyaq?

• Families: Dallas parents needing cargo space and child-friendly features.
• Commuters: Seattle professionals seeking range and efficiency.
• Enthusiasts: Denver drivers craving rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
• Tech Lovers: Miami buyers wanting a user-friendly 13-inch touchscreen.
• Value Seekers: Chicago buyers looking for premium features under $50,000.

The Škoda Enyaq is a near-perfect electric SUV, offering a compelling mix of range, style, and practicality at ~$50,000. Its smooth ride, premium cabin, and clever features rival the Tesla Model Y and Volkswagen ID.4, despite minor quirks like missing navigation or scheduled charging. From Phoenix’s streets to Boston’s highways, the Enyaq delivers value and sophistication. Ready for an electric SUV that stands out? The Enyaq awaits.

Test drive at Škoda dealers or stay updated with automotive reviews. Share your thoughts below!

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Sources:

• YouTube: Škoda Enyaq review: Best EV from Škoda?
• Škoda Official Website
• Consumer Reports
• MotorTrend
• Car and Driver
• Edmunds
• Kelley Blue Book