Skoda has pulled the wraps off the new Peaq, a seven-seat electric SUV that now sits right at the summit of the Czech brand's global line-up. Based on the Vision 7S concept first revealed in 2022, the Peaq marks a significant step forward for Skoda, not just because it is the company's largest and most expensive production model to date, but because it also previews the future direction of the brand's electric ambitions. For a manufacturer traditionally associated with sensible family cars and value-driven motoring, the Peaq represents something of a statement piece. This is Skoda aiming directly at the premium end of the electric SUV market, taking on established rivals such as the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Volvo EX90 with a combination of space, technology and practicality. And while there has been no official confirmation regarding India, the Peaq is exactly the sort of halo product that could find its way to our market in limited numbers, especially as Skoda continues to expand its EV portfolio globally.
A New Flagship For A New Era
The Peaq becomes the new flagship of the Skoda range and, unsurprisingly, it's enormous. Measuring 4,874mm in length and riding on a generous 2,965mm wheelbase, it comfortably eclipses every other model in the company's portfolio. The proportions are unmistakably SUV-like, but the overall design takes a cleaner and more futuristic approach than previous Skoda products. It is also the clearest expression yet of the company's Modern Solid design language. Up front sits Skoda's illuminated Tech-Deck Face, which replaces the traditional grille and integrates various sensors and driver assistance hardware beneath a clean panel. Flanking it are slim T-shaped LED lighting elements that have quickly become a signature feature of the brand's latest concepts and production models. Viewed from the side, the Peaq's size becomes immediately apparent. Large glass areas, a long roofline and flush-fitting door handles contribute to a sleek silhouette, while aerodynamic alloy wheels ranging from 19 to 21 inches help maximise efficiency. At the rear, the T-shaped lighting theme continues, giving the SUV a distinctive identity both day and night.
Why Isn't It Called A Kodiaq?
One of the most interesting aspects of the Peaq isn't its design or technology, but its name. For years, Skoda's SUV naming convention has followed a simple formula. Every SUV starts with the letter 'K' and ends with a 'Q'. Kodiaq, Kushaq, Kylaq, Karoq and Kamiq all follow the same pattern. The Peaq doesn't. When asked about this unusual departure, Skoda explained that the company views the Peaq differently from every SUV that has come before it. As the largest, most luxurious and most expensive Skoda ever built, the company felt it deserved a unique identity. According to Skoda, the name 'Peaq' reflects the car's position at the very peak of its line-up, making it worthy of an exception to the long-established naming rule. It's a small detail, but one that highlights just how important this vehicle is to the brand.
Spacious Enough For Seven
As expected from a Skoda flagship, practicality remains a major focus. The Peaq is available with seating for up to seven occupants, making it one of the most family-oriented electric SUVs on sale. The long wheelbase helps maximise cabin space, while the flat floor made possible by the dedicated EV architecture contributes to an airy and spacious interior. Boot space is equally impressive. With five seats in use, the Peaq offers a cavernous 935 litres of luggage capacity. Even with all seven seats occupied, there is still 299 litres available for luggage. In addition, there's a 37-litre front trunk, providing extra storage for charging cables and smaller items. Skoda has also packed the cabin with its trademark Simply Clever solutions, ensuring the Peaq remains every bit as practical as buyers would expect from the brand.
Technology Everywhere
The interior showcases Skoda's most advanced cabin to date. Dominating the dashboard is a large 13.6-inch vertically oriented infotainment touchscreen, complemented by a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and an augmented reality head-up display. The system integrates the latest software architecture and connectivity features, while physical controls have been retained for commonly used functions. Comfort levels have taken a significant step up as well. Buyers can expect massage seats, premium upholstery, sustainable materials and a Sonos audio system, all aimed at creating a genuinely premium experience. Perhaps the most impressive feature is the panoramic roof. Not only is it the largest ever fitted to a Skoda, but it also incorporates Dynamic Shade Control technology, allowing individual sections of the glass to be darkened electronically depending on occupant preference.
Up To 647km Of Range
Underneath the bodywork sits Volkswagen Group's proven MEB electric platform. The Peaq will be offered in three variants: Peaq 60, Peaq 90 and Peaq 90x. The entry-level Peaq 60 uses a 63kWh battery pack paired with a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 204bhp. Moving up to the Peaq 90 brings a larger 91kWh battery and 286bhp, while the range-topping Peaq 90x adds a second motor for all-wheel drive and a combined output of 299bhp. Range figures are equally impressive. The Peaq 90 leads the line-up with a claimed WLTP range of up to 647km on a single charge, while the all-wheel-drive 90x manages up to 613km. Even the entry-level variant delivers around 460km. Charging performance is competitive too. Skoda claims a 10 to 80 per cent DC fast charge can be completed in approximately 27 to 28 minutes, making long-distance travel considerably easier. The quickest version in the range, the Peaq 90x, can sprint from 0-100kmph in just 6.7 seconds.
A Glimpse Of Skoda's Future
The Peaq is far more than just another electric SUV. It serves as a showcase for Skoda's future design language, technology and engineering direction, while simultaneously pushing the brand into territory it has rarely explored before. Bigger, more luxurious and more technologically advanced than any previous Skoda, the Peaq signals a new level of ambition from the Czech manufacturer. Whether it eventually reaches Indian shores remains to be seen. But if it does, it will instantly become one of the most interesting electric SUVs on sale. Because while the badge on the nose still says Skoda, the Peaq is playing in an entirely different league.
