Skoda Peaq test: finally an electric 7-seater without an absurd price tag

In this Skoda Peaq test, we drive the brand’s largest electric SUV through the Alps once again. With seven seats, a maximum WLTP range of 646 kilometers, and a starting price of €49,990, the Peaq seems aimed at solving one main problem: a large electric family car doesn’t have to be unaffordable.

Skoda Peaq test: large, but not excessive

Those who automatically think of the Kodiaq when considering a large Skoda SUV should set that idea aside for the Peaq. The Peaq is fully electric, nearly 4.9 meters long, and is built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform. This makes it Skoda’s largest electric vehicle to date.

In terms of appearance as well, the brand takes a significant step forward. The Peaq follows the new Modern Solid design language, featuring a closed Tech-Deck Face, narrow lighting strips, recessed door handles, and fairly large wheels. It looks robust without Skoda trying to turn it into an overly aggressive SUV. This approach works well. The Peaq already has enough presence due to its size alone. Especially with the larger wheels, it appears like a substantial electric SUV, yet it remains true to Skoda’s style: fairly restrained and primarily functional.

Seven seats and especially plenty of space

You really realize just how large the Peaq is inside. There’s plenty of room in the front seat, but it’s especially on the second row where there’s ample movement space. Depending on the version, the Peaq can accommodate five or seven people.

The third row is also more useful than in many compact seven-seaters. Don’t expect the same amount of space at the back as on the middle row, but adults can sit there comfortably for shorter distances. This makes it more than just a makeshift solution for children.

If you fold down the third row of seats, a huge cargo space is created. In five-seater configuration, Skoda Nederland states that the trunk volume is 935 liters. There’s also a 37-liter frunk in the front, useful for things like charging cables.

The well-known practical Skoda features are also present. Think of the umbrella in the door, smart storage solutions, and various small amenities that may not sound impressive but are very convenient in a family car. The Peaq doesn’t rely solely on large screens and ambient lighting to deliver its luxury feel.

Peaq 60 or go straight for the Peaq 90?

The lineup starts with the rear-wheel-drive Peaq 60. It delivers 150 kW, or 204 horsepower, and has a net battery capacity of 58 kWh according to the Dutch price list. Depending on the version, its WLTP range is up to 459 kilometers. The Selection model starts at €49,990.

For those who drive long distances regularly, the Peaq 90 is likely more interesting. This version also features rear-wheel drive but boasts 210 kW, or 286 horsepower, along with a significantly larger battery pack. Its net capacity is 89 kWh, and the maximum WLTP range reaches 646 kilometers. The difference is substantial. Especially for a large family car that you might use for vacations as well, the Peaq 90 better fits the car’s character. The Business Edition with this powertrain costs €54,990.

The Peaq 90 supports fast charging at up to 199 kW. Under ideal conditions, charging from 10% to 80% takes 28 minutes according to Skoda. It’s not a record time, but combined with the large battery pack and impressive range, it means long trips should be manageable. The Peaq also features Vehicle-to-Load functionality, allowing you to use power from the battery pack for external electrical devices, such as an e-bike or other equipment during a vacation.

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The 90x can also tow a sizable caravan.

The Peaq 90x now follows the Peaq 90. This version features two electric motors, all-wheel drive, and a system power output of 220 kW, or 299 horsepower. The starting price is €57,990.

Perhaps more interesting than that extra power is its towing capacity. The Peaq 90x can tow up to 2,000 kilograms. This makes this large electric SUV a serious option for those who frequently travel with a caravan or heavy trailer. This is important for Skoda. Those wanting to upgrade from a model like the Skoda Enyaq to something larger don’t necessarily need to look at a much more expensive electric SUV from a premium brand.

How does the Skoda Peaq drive?

On paper, this is a substantial car, and you can tell from its weight. Yet the Peaq manages to hide that quite well while on the road. During our drive through the Alps, it was especially the smoothness with which everything worked that impressed us.

The power delivery is well balanced. There’s no overly aggressive response as soon as you press the accelerator, but rather a gradual increase in speed that fits much better with a large, comfortable SUV. The rest of the controls also feel pleasant and predictable.

The steering is on the light side. Those looking for a truly sporty SUV might miss some handling feel, but this characteristic actually suits the Peaq quite well. Despite its size, the car is easy to maneuver and doesn’t feel as large behind the wheel as it actually is.

With adaptive dampers, the Peaq 90 we tested is also able to effectively mask its weight. Of course, a nearly 4.9-meter-long electric SUV doesn’t suddenly turn into a lightweight hatchback, but the vehicle’s handling remains well under control. Even more impressive is the quietness inside. Wind and tire noise stay at a low level, making the Peaq a comfortable car especially at higher speeds. Combined with its spacious interior, comfortable seats, and large battery pack, these features make it ideally suited for long trips.

Price positions the Peaq strongly in the market

And that brings us to perhaps the most interesting aspect of this Skoda Peaq test: the price. Those looking for a spacious electric SUV with seven seats quickly find themselves facing vehicles with high prices. A Kia EV9 and Volvo EX90 are clearly priced higher in the market. The Peugeot E-5008 is a more direct competitor, while models like the Mercedes EQB are more compact.

At €49,990 for the Peaq 60, Skoda starts at a quite competitive price. We find the Peaq 90 Business Edition at €54,990 even more interesting. For about an extra five thousand euros, you get a significantly larger battery pack and a maximum WLTP range of 646 kilometers. This doesn’t make the Peaq cheap, but for an electric SUV of this size, with such interior space and seven seating positions, the price is remarkably competitive.

It is precisely its practical nature that makes the Peaq strong

The Skoda Peaq doesn’t try to be the fastest or most spectacular electric SUV. It doesn’t need to be either. Its strengths lie in features that are useful every day: plenty of space, a large trunk, up to seven seating positions, comfort, and a decent range.

In addition, it drives comfortably and remarkably quietly. With the Peaq 90, you can achieve over 600 kilometers of WLTP range, while the 90x becomes attractive for caravanners thanks to four-wheel drive and a towing capacity of 2,000 kilograms. But ultimately, price remains the key factor. Starting at €49,990, you get a powerful electric family SUV here. And for €54,990, you can obtain a Peaq 90 with a larger battery pack. While the Peaq might not be the most exciting electric SUV around, it is one of the most well-rounded electric 7-seaters for its price.

Text: Werner Budding