By Hugh Maguire.
The Enyaq has been stylish part of the Skoda line up and now its been nicely upgraded.I will have a full road test in the coming months but for now here are the main details.
Škoda’s all-electric Enyaq line up receives its first significant upgrade since launching in Ireland in early 2021. Minor styling changes have been made to remain consistent with the brand’s new visual identity, including new logos and lettering, while the iV designation will be discontinued.
In addition to visual changes, the Enyaq and its Coupe stablemate receive a range of technical upgrades. The Enyaq has an increased range capacity and improved overall charging speed while delivering an even better driving experience. In order to reflect the new performance designation, the Enyaq 80 and Enyaq 80x will become the Enyaq 85 and Enyaq 85x.
The Enyaq 85 can travel up to 565 kilometres on a single charge (WLTP cycle). Meanwhile, the battery can charge from 10% to 80% capacity in just 28 minutes. This upgrade also applies to the Coupé version, which now has a range of up to 576 kilometres.
The all-wheel drive version Enyaq 85x also has a new output of 210 kW, an increase of 15 kW. The new model can reach 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and can travel up to 538 kilometres on a single charge.
Changes to the car’s infotainment system also apply from the Enyaq 85 version. This involves a new software update 4.0, with redesigned user interface and new brand identity. Practically, it is more intuitive and user friendly. The virtual instrument panel and head-up display also receive new graphics.
MERCEDES-BENZ V-Class and EQV.
I have had a drive in the new EQV at the Irish Press Launch and its a fine machine but really will only be purchased by chauffeur hire companies or maybe hotels who have both the need for he space and the budget required to buy one!
Numerous customisation options are offered with several attractive equipment lines. The V Class is available in ‘Avantgarde’ and ‘Avantgarde AMG’ lines plus a top-end ‘Exclusive’ version. In the EQV, an ‘Avantgarde’ line is offered.
A new look exterior design characterised by a striking radiator grille, new alloy wheels, four new paint colours, and a new cockpit layout give them an unmistakable appearance. Other features include interior ambient lighting, smartphone wireless charging, dimmed cabin lighting, and ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistance.
Powering V-Class is a proven and efficient diesel engine available in two performance levels: 140 kW (190 hp) and 174 kW (237 hp) WLTP.
The fully electric EQV model comes complete with 90kWh battery, with a peak output of 150 kW (204 hp), continuous output of 70 kW (95 hp), and a range of up to 277-365 kilometres WLTP. It supports AC home or public station charging with up to 11 kW, as well as direct current charging (DC) at fast charging stations with up to 110 kW as standard, and a 10-80% charging time of circa 40mins. Prices for the V-Class – first units of which are due to arrive here this month – begin from €132,460 (V 250d with ‘Avantgarde’ pack and automatic transmission). The EQV is scheduled to arrive in August with prices to be confirmed at that time.