Skoda Peaq: Don’t judge it by its name

A Q with premium ambitions

First, a word on the name. Since all of Skoda’s recent models end in a Q, the K of ‘peak’ had to make way as well. We’ll get used to it, just as we’ll get used to the SUV itself, which at 4.87 m is 11 cm longer than the Kodiaq. It seats up to seven, and a huge panoramic roof lets occupants take in the sky and scenery on the move. With two rows in place, the boot holds 935 litres. Once the two third-row seats are in use, though, luggage becomes a matter of compromise. The Peaq does boast the widest rear doors in its segment, designed to ease access to the back row, but only children and shorter adults will be comfortable there on a long trip.

Clean lines, quality cabin

As on the Epiq, the ‘Modern Solid’ design language shows in clean, understated lines. The Peaq also wears the T-shaped light signature front and rear, and the top trim gets LED Matrix headlights. A glance inside confirms the premium intent. The materials are high quality and the build flawless. Nothing is missing, from three-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel to comfortable seats that let you arrive without aches after a long drive (they carry the AGR seal of the German back-health association Aktion Gesunder Rücken). In the top trim, the front seats even offer a massage function and leg rests.

Function over form

The driver faces a digital display with the key information. Then, as on every modern car, there is a central infotainment screen, a sober if colourful rectangle that ruthlessly wrecks any attempt at a harmonious dashboard. Beyond that, there is little to fault in this luxurious cabin, and even less in how the screen works. Reassuringly, there are rotary controls for heating and climate, plus two smartphone charging pads in the centre console. On an SUV of this size, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera are essential.

From 150 to 220 kW

Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB+ platform, the Peaq comes in three versions. The range opens with the Peaq 60, which produces 150 kW (204 PS) and uses a 63 kWh battery for a claimed range of around 460 km. Next up is the Peaq 90, with 210 kW (286 PS) drawn from a 91 kWh battery, another first for Skoda. Range is quoted at more than 600 km. Both the Peaq 60 and Peaq 90 are rear-wheel drive. Topping the line-up is the all-wheel-drive Peaq 90X, with 220 kW (299 PS), the same 91 kWh battery and a claimed range of over 600 km. The 60 and 90 are limited to 160 km/h and the 90X to 180 km/h, which is more than enough for sensible, economical driving. Depending on the version, consumption is quoted at 15.0 to 18.5 kWh/100 km. That is very reasonable given the performance and weight of each model, which starts at 2,125 kg for the entry version.

Every version has a heat pump and a 400-volt system, allowing DC rapid charging from 10 to 80% in under half an hour. Under the bonnet, a 37-litre ‘frunk’ (front trunk) stores the 11 kW AC charging cable.

Composed rather than sporty

Our first drive in the Peaq 90 took us from Munich airport down to the Tyrolean Alps in Austria. After the obligatory motorway stretch came winding country roads over hill and dale, where the Peaq steered and drove with calm assurance. Pressing on was out of the question, though. The Bavarian lakeshores were packed and the speed cameras were in fine form, quickly deflating any hint of high spirits. The climbs alone were a treat. A quick press of the accelerator and the Peaq surged past everything in its way, as if moved by an invisible hand. It proved comfortable and soft through bends, perhaps a little too yielding, but firmed up noticeably in Sport mode. For motorways and relaxed country driving, Comfort mode is more than adequate.

With the Peaq, Skoda offers a sophisticated luxury SUV that shines on space, comfort, performance and range, with pleasant handling to match. That naturally comes at a price, and you will quickly pass the 50,000 euro mark.