The 2027 Skoda Epiq First Edition gives Skoda a sharper opening move in Europe's compact electric SUV segment. Looking at the data, the First Edition takes the strongest Epiq 55 drivetrain, adds exclusive exterior details, and targets early adopters who want the richest version from day one.
The Skoda Epiq targets urban drivers, young families, fleet users, and EV shoppers who want usable space without paying mid-size SUV money. Specifically, the First Edition adds Navajo Orange design details, a black roof, 20-inch alloy wheels, orange interior stitching, orange seat belts, and a dedicated First Edition badge.
Skoda Epiq First Edition At A Glance
Skoda builds the Skoda Epiq First Edition 55 around the Epiq's most powerful powertrain. The front-mounted electric motor delivers 155 kW and 290 Nm of torque, while the 55 kWh gross battery supports an estimated driving range of around 440 km in Skoda's European launch materials. Dutch launch data lists up to 436 km WLTP, which likely reflects market-specific homologation and configuration.
| Specification | Skoda Epiq First Edition 55 |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Compact electric city SUV crossover |
| Platform | New-generation MEB+ platform |
| Drive layout | Front-wheel drive |
| Motor output | 155 kW / 211 hp |
| Torque | 290 Nm |
| Battery capacity | 55 kWh gross / 52 kWh net |
| Estimated range | Around 440 km, up to 436 km WLTP in Dutch data |
| DC fast charging | 10-80 percent in about 24 minutes |
| AC charging | 11 kW |
| Top speed | 160 km/h |
| Boot volume | 475 litres |
| Frunk | 25 litres, later in production |
| Dutch launch price | From 36,990 euros |
A 475-litre boot in a 4,171 mm SUV gives the Epiq cargo capacity that many larger-looking compact crossovers fail to match.
MEB+ Architecture: Why Front-Wheel Drive Counts
The MEB+ platform changes Skoda's EV layout logic. Previous Skoda electric SUVs used rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive layouts in larger bodies, but the Epiq adopts front-wheel drive to suit compact packaging, lower weight, and tighter cost control. Skoda uses smaller and lighter traction batteries to cut energy use while freeing cabin and cargo space.
Front-wheel drive places the motor where many compact-SUV drivers expect traction under acceleration, and it frees the rear axle from propulsion hardware. Consequently, Skoda can package a large boot, keep the floor useful, and still deliver a city-friendly footprint.
The Epiq powertrain family includes:
- Epiq 35 with 85 kW, 267 Nm, 38.5 kWh gross LFP battery, around 310 km range, and 150 km/h top speed.
- Epiq 40 with 99 kW, 267 Nm, the smaller battery, around 310 km range, and 150 km/h top speed.
- Epiq 55 with 155 kW, 290 Nm, 55 kWh gross NMC battery, around 440 km range, and 160 km/h top speed.
Skoda has not published a full torque curve, approach angle, departure angle, or energy-consumption table for the First Edition in the supplied launch materials. The released figures still tell a clear story: the First Edition uses the Epiq 55 setup for the strongest acceleration potential, the longest range, and the fastest DC charging profile.
Battery Chemistry, Charging, And One-Pedal Driving
The two-battery strategy gives Skoda a clean cost ladder. The smaller 38.5 kWh gross pack uses LFP battery chemistry, a sensible choice for value-focused trims because LFP cells usually prioritise durability, thermal stability, and cost control. The larger 55 kWh gross pack uses NMC battery chemistry, which gives higher energy density and supports the Epiq 55's longer range target.
| Variant | Battery | Chemistry | Power | Torque | Range | DC charging | Top speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epiq 35 | 38.5 kWh gross / 37 kWh net | LFP | 85 kW | 267 Nm | Around 310 km | Up to 50 kW | 150 km/h |
| Epiq 40 | 38.5 kWh gross / 37 kWh net | LFP | 99 kW | 267 Nm | Around 310 km | Up to 90 kW | 150 km/h |
| Epiq 55 | 55 kWh gross / 52 kWh net | NMC | 155 kW | 290 Nm | Around 440 km | Up to 105 kW | 160 km/h |
The First Edition also supports bidirectional charging. That gives the electric city SUV more utility than a standard commuter EV for households that want backup power options or future energy-cost control.
Pro-Tip: Compare the First Edition against the Business Launch Edition 55, not against the base Essence 35. The base car wins on price, but the First Edition competes on range, equipment, charging speed, and resale appeal.
Design Details: Navajo Orange Gives The First Edition Its Identity
Skoda gives the Skoda Epiq First Edition a clear visual signature. Navajo Orange appears on the mirror caps, trim above the side windows, wheel-cover stripe, and the surrounds of vertical bumper openings front and rear. The two-tone paint finish adds a black roof, while black roof rails and a First Edition tailgate badge make the launch model easy to identify.
The 20-inch alloy wheels deserve attention because standard Epiq wheel sizes run from 17 to 19 inches on regular versions. Skoda uses the larger wheels to separate the First Edition from the rest of the range. By comparison, the Dutch Selection Launch Edition 55 lists 18-inch alloy wheels, while the First Edition moves into a more expensive visual lane.
Inside, Skoda repeats the orange theme with stitching on the seats and dashboard, orange seat belts, a three-spoke sports steering wheel with orange stitching, black headlining, sports pedal covers, and decorative door sills. The cabin upgrade adds perceived value where early buyers feel it every day: touchpoints, trim, and visual continuity.
Dimensions, Aero, And Everyday Use
The 2027 Skoda Epiq measures 4,171 mm long, 1,798 mm wide, and 1,581 mm high, with a 2,601 mm wheelbase. In inches, that equals about 164.2 inches long, 70.8 inches wide, 62.2 inches high, and a 102.4-inch wheelbase. Those figures place the Epiq in the small SUV class, but the 475-litre boot gives it a cargo figure that punches above its footprint.
Skoda worked the aero package hard. The Epiq posts a drag coefficient of 0.275, helped by active cooling shutters, Air Curtain channels, aero wheel details, underbody smoothing, a rear diffuser, roof spoiler, finlets, and rear light edge management. Looking at the data, this approach counts because compact EVs have less battery capacity to mask drag at motorway speeds.
Key exterior and packaging points include:
- Glossy black Tech-Deck Face with slim T-shaped front lighting.
- Available LED Matrix headlights with 12 light segments.
- Four adaptive light modes for city roads, country roads, motorways, and poor weather.
- Six body colours on regular Epiq versions, including Timiano Green.
- Optional panoramic roof with electric sunblind.
- 475-litre boot plus a 25-litre frunk later in production.
Safety, Infotainment, And Launch Equipment
Standard systems include Front Assist, Side Assist, Lane Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and seven airbags. Optional Travel Assist 3.0 adds extra steering and distance-support functions for longer trips and heavy traffic.
The Epiq uses an Android-based system with a 13-inch centre display, online services, personalisation options, a dedicated app store, and MySkoda app access for charging, vehicle data, and comfort functions. The First Edition includes the Convenience and Tech Packages as standard, while Skoda lists Travel Package and Light and View Package as options.
Definition: What Does First Edition Mean Here?
A First Edition usually marks an early-run version with exclusive trim, richer standard kit, and limited availability. In the Epiq's case, Skoda bases it on Selection trim, pairs it only with the Epiq 55 drivetrain, and adds unique design details inside and out.
Price Ladder: Where The First Edition Fits
The Essence 35 starts at 26,990 euros, while the First Edition 55 starts at 36,990 euros. That creates a 10,000-euro spread between the access point and the launch flagship.
| Dutch Epiq trim | Starting price | Core positioning |
|---|---|---|
| Epiq Essence 35 | 26,990 euros | Entry EV, 85 kW motor, 38.5 kWh battery |
| Epiq Selection Launch Edition 55 | 31,990 euros | Larger battery, 155 kW motor, 18-inch wheels, heated front seats |
| Epiq Business Launch Edition 55 | 34,990 euros | Adds navigation, rear camera, Travel Assist 3.0, Kessy Advanced, digital key |
| Epiq First Edition 55 | 36,990 euros | Launch flagship with 20-inch wheels, black roof, black exterior details, orange design details |
The First Edition carries a 2,000-euro premium over the Business Launch Edition 55 in the Netherlands. Buyers pay that gap for design exclusivity, the 20-inch wheels, black roof, orange interior and exterior details, and the launch-model identity. Fleet buyers may prefer the Business Launch Edition for its equipment-to-price logic, while private buyers may find the First Edition easier to justify if they value rarity and stronger kerb appeal.
Should You Buy The Skoda Epiq First Edition?
Choose the Skoda Epiq First Edition if you want the strongest Epiq drivetrain, the longest range configuration, the fastest charging version, and the most recognisable design package. It makes sense for buyers who plan to keep the car several years and want a trim that will remain identifiable after more Epiq versions reach the road.
Skip it if price drives the purchase. The Selection Launch Edition 55 gives buyers the same 56 kWh Dutch-market battery category and the same 155 kW motor at a lower starting price. The Business Launch Edition 55 then adds many comfort and assistance features for less money than the First Edition.
From an expert perspective, the First Edition gives Skoda's most affordable EV a halo trim at launch. It puts the best Epiq hardware, smartest packaging, and strongest visual cues into one early-build version. That directness may prove the First Edition's strongest sales argument.
