The Skoda Elroq Features a Clever Tool for Checking Tire Wear

It also functions as an ice scraper

Whenever Skoda releases a new model, we always look for the “Simply Clever” features that make ownership easier. These are more than just marketing gimmicks; they’re genuinely practical. The new Elroq is packed with such features, but one that stood out is the tire wear gauge that also serves as an ice scraper.

Yes, many Europeans will note that Skodas have had this for years—I have it in my 2017 Octavia—but it’s usually inside the fuel door. In the Elroq, Skoda has moved it to a compartment on the left side of the tailgate, made from sustainable materials.

The extensive list of Simply Clever features ranges from the familiar Rolls-Royce-like umbrella in the driver’s door to a warning triangle in the tailgate. There’s also a net under the parcel shelf for the charging cable and foldable hooks in the cargo area. Despite being fully electric with a dedicated platform, the Elroq has a central hump, but it makes use of the space with a storage box and built-in cup holders for rear passengers. In the luggage area, Skoda added two upper storage trays above the usual pockets.

We’re glad to see Skoda hasn’t ditched physical buttons yet, with a row of hard keys below the air vents. The steering wheel, driver’s door, and light controls also feature traditional buttons, avoiding the frustration of touch-sensitive ones. In the cargo area, there’s a QR code that links to the vehicle’s features and functions.

Despite the large 13-inch infotainment screen, Skoda has kept the digital instrument cluster, positioned below an optional head-up display. While the Elroq introduces Skoda’s new “Modern Solid” design language, it retains the practical features that have made Skoda popular in Europe. It boasts the largest trunk in its class, offering 16.6 cubic feet (470 liters) with the seats up, expanding to 55.8 cubic feet (1,580 liters) when folded. Additional compartments inside provide another 1.7 cubic feet (48 liters).

The largest battery is available for the Elroq 85 and 85x, supporting up to 175 kW charging and taking 28 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% at a DC station. The Elroq 60 supports 165 kW, while the base Elroq 50 charges at 145 kW, with both taking 25 minutes for a 10% to 80% charge. AC charging is also supported, up to 11 kW.

For maximum range, the rear-wheel-drive Elroq 85 is the best option, covering over 348 miles (560 km) in the WLTP cycle, which is typically more optimistic than EPA estimates. While top speed isn’t its strength, the 85 models reach 112 mph (180 km/h), with the lower models capped at 100 mph (160 km/h).

At 176.7 inches (448 cm) long, 74.1 inches (1884 mm) wide, and 65.1 inches (1654 mm) tall, the Elroq is smaller than the ID.4 and Enyaq. Skoda lists its weight at 4,297 pounds (1,949 kg), likely for the base rear-wheel-drive model without options. The Timiano Green color is exclusive to the Elroq, and wheel sizes range from 19 to 21 inches.

Pricing starts at €33,900 ($37,600), similar to the combustion-engine Karoq. Orders open tomorrow in 12 European markets, alongside the configurator launch. A limited First Edition adds a front light bar and black A-pillars and roof.

Unfortunately, Skoda won’t be coming to the U.S., but VW’s Cupra brand is set to bring electric crossovers to North America by the end of the decade.

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  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...

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