Skoda: New "Small BEV" from 25,000 euros gross

An unremarkable modern-purpose hall at the entrance to the Czech town of Mlada Bolelslav. In front of it, a conspicuously large number of VW buses and Skoda models with "el" on the license plate. To car enthusiasts, it's clear – there could be something worth seeing in this hall. And indeed there is: almost the entire Skoda future lineup until 2026! We were on-site and were most excited by the smallest planned model – a BEV electric vehicle starting at 25,000 euros.

The foundation is set: The VW Group plans small electric vehicles!

The basis for this is set, has front-wheel drive, and is scheduled to be ready by 2025: What is known as VW ID.2 and Cupra Urban Rebel will be a spacious SUV-style vehicle for Skoda, offering more space and practical details than the others. The entry-level electric Skoda could be produced with its siblings in Spain, where the base is also developed. For a solid stance on the road, the ID.2 all features 225/40 tires on 20-inch rims. The Skoda monolith could visually go for 21 inches, with a wheelbase likely to match VW's 2,600 millimeters.

The 25,000-euro base version may not feature the 166 kW/226 hp electric motor of the VW concept study but will likely have a more modest engine. Additionally, the latest version of the driver assistance system known as VW Travel Assist will probably be available at an extra cost.

Visually, the smallest electric Skoda follows its larger siblings and the new design theme of the massive 4.9-meter seven-seater SUV concept, which is set to crown the lineup in 2026. This means new lighting graphics, Skoda lettering instead of logos everywhere except on the wheel covers, and a few bars from Smetana's "Moldau" as a charismatic identification sound.

Shorter than the Kamiq, but extremely spacious inside

At just under 4.2 meters in length, according to Stefani, it will be shorter than the Kamiq but should offer enough space inside for four tall (1.9 meters) adults, along with at least 400 liters (plus-minus x) of trunk space – figures that Jeep has managed with the 4.08-meter Avenger, which starts at 37,000 euros. For comparison, the VW ID.2all is expected to offer up to 490 liters of trunk volume, expandable to 1,330 liters due to the depth of the trunk. Thanks to a foldable passenger seat back, objects up to 2.20 meters in length can be transported – giving an idea of what the small Skoda will be capable of, as it will be somewhat larger and even more practical!

This includes several clever details – VW demonstrated a rectangular storage box under the double floor suitable for beverage crates and another 50-liter storage compartment under the rear seat bench, which folds up with a single handle, intended for charging cables, first aid kits, safety vests, and the tire mobility set. Additionally, this lockable compartment can also store larger devices such as laptops. VW has already set a high bar with clever details – of which Skoda is likely to offer even more.

Batteries probably similar to the ID.2 all

There are already indications about the batteries: They are expected to offer capacities of 38 kWh and 56 kWh but could be "densified" over time, as the compact models of the group will run for a considerable period to recoup their development costs. The larger battery, according to Volkswagen, should enable a range of up to 450 kilometers according to the WLTP cycle, corresponding to a consumption of 12.5 kWh/100 km. In reality, it will probably be more like 350 km plus-minus x, with the more voluminous Skoda likely achieving somewhat less. The smaller battery might manage around 300 km according to WLTP, largely due to lower weight, but realistically more like 200 to 250. The weights should remain under 1.5 tons, especially with the smaller battery.

And it would also charge quickly: VW specifies up to 125 kW, allowing one to charge from 10 to 80 percent in 20 minutes with DC, or achieve 200 kilometers in around 10 minutes – with the large battery. With 11 kW AC, it would take about six hours to reach 100 percent, while the small battery could be fully charged in just over four hours.

We are eager to see what great details Skoda comes up with and how the car will be priced. Since it is "larger" than its siblings, it is unlikely to be cheaper despite a similar starting price. Either way, we are looking forward to it!

What does that mean?

Yes, Chief Designer Stefani is right: The "Small BEV" is the brand's biggest promise. But if it is delivered as "promised" by VW and Cupra, it will become a volume seller. Especially since the brands will distinguish themselves much more strongly here than they did with the VW eUp and the like. However, one can forget about Skoda offering the cheapest of the trio here: the car will hardly be cheaper, but perhaps somewhat larger and smarter than its siblings. True to Skoda's new marketing slogan "Explore more," which replaces "simply clever."