Hold onto your hats, speed and electric enthusiasts! Škoda has decided that being sensible and spacious isn’t enough. Enter the Škoda Elroq vRS, the spicy version of their new compact electric SUV, promising to be the fastest production car to come out of their factories. Yes, you read that right: Škoda and “fastest” in the same sentence. Let’s see if this blend of Czech practicality and vRS spice really delivers!
Based on the recently launched standard Elroq, the vRS version doesn’t hold back on the electric steroids. We’re talking more power, all-wheel drive to avoid struggling at the traffic light, a more aggressive look, and cutting-edge technology. Can it deliver the promised thrill without sacrificing too much range or costing an arm and a leg?
More Than Enough Power: When Škoda Decides to Go All Out
The heart (or rather, the hearts) of the Elroq vRS is a dual-motor setup, one for each axle. This not only ensures the highly sought-after all-wheel drive (Goodbye, standard Elroq with just rear-wheel drive!), but it also ramps up power to around 340 horsepower. It’s a significant leap that transforms the humble family SUV into something… much more exciting.
The practical result of this extra horsepower? Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.4 seconds. Okay, it might not be a Tesla Plaid, but for a Škoda, it’s enough to leave many gasoline vehicles in the dust (electric dust, of course). The top speed is limited to around 111 mph, showing that the focus here is quick starts, not breaking records on the Autobahn. Fair enough.
And to ensure pedestrians know that something fast (and silent) is coming, Škoda has added two new external sounds: “Sport” and “Futuristic.” It remains to be seen whether they will sound like a spaceship or a tuned blender. The curiosity is high!
Performance Highlights of the Elroq vRS
- Power: Approximately 340 hp
- Drive: All-wheel drive (4WD) with dual motors
- 0-62 mph acceleration: 5.4 seconds
- Top Speed: ~111 mph
- External Sounds: “Sport” and “Futuristic” modes
Battery and Charging: The Dance Between Performance and Range
To power this electric beast, Škoda uses an 84 kWh battery, the same capacity found in the top-end version of the conventional Elroq. The declared range on the WLTP cycle is approximately 342 miles. It’s a respectable figure, but slightly less than the less powerful versions. After all, there’s no such thing as a free lunch (or free brutal acceleration), right? Performance comes at the price of efficiency.
The good news is that when the battery needs a breather, the Elroq vRS won’t leave you waiting too long. It supports fast DC charging of up to 185 kW. In practical terms, this means going from 10% to 80% charge in about 26 minutes—just enough time for a coffee and to plan your next dash. For those charging at home or work, an 11 kW AC charger will take it from 0 to 100% in approximately 8 hours.
This fast charging capability is crucial. It helps to mitigate the slight loss in range and makes the Elroq vRS a more viable option for those who want to use the car daily and also take it on longer trips, without suffering too much from the classic “range anxiety.”
Quick Charging Table for the Elroq vRS
| Charge Type | Max Power | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Fast DC (10-80%) | 185 kW | ~26 minutes |
| Slow AC (0-100%) | 11 kW | ~8 hours |
| Range (WLTP) | N/A | ~342 miles |
Sporty Chassis: Lower, Stiffer, More Fun?
A car with the vRS badge isn’t just about a powerful engine. Škoda knows this and has given special attention to the suspension and chassis of the sporty Elroq. The setup is described as stiffer and focused on dynamic driving. To complement this, the ride height has been lowered by 0.6 inches in the front and 0.4 inches in the rear. This not only gives it a more aggressive look but also lowers the center of gravity, aiding stability in curves.
The steering has also been recalibrated for greater precision and responsiveness, which is essential for instilling confidence in the driver as the pace picks up. The front brakes feature two-piston calipers to ensure proper stopping power for the 340 hp. And for those seeking maximum adjustability, Škoda will offer adaptive dampers as an option, allowing you to switch between a more comfortable or firmer setup, depending on your mood (or the road conditions).
It remains to be seen if these modifications will truly transform the Elroq into a genuine “hot electric SUV” or if it will just be a stiff car with a lot of power in a straight line. The expectations are high to see if the dynamics match the performance of the engine.
“Modern Solid” Design with a vRS Accent: Aggressiveness Just Right
The Elroq vRS is the first model in the sporty line to sport Škoda’s new design language, called “Modern Solid.” In practice, this translates to straighter and chunkier lines, but with details that scream “performance.” The exclusive launch color, a striking Mamba Green, ensures it won’t go unnoticed.
Specific vRS features include a redesigned front bumper with larger hexagonal air intakes, an illuminated “Crystal Face” front grille (optional), vRS emblems scattered throughout the bodywork, and plenty of glossy black trim (mirrors, window surrounds, roof rails). Upon unlocking the car, a “light show” with the LED Matrix headlights and taillights welcomes you. It gives off a bit of a “factory tuning” vibe, but many will love it.
At the rear, the bumper is also exclusive, with a black finish and a red reflector that stretches across its entire width. Standard alloy wheels are 20 inches, with an option for 21 inches for those who prefer low-profile tires. Tinted rear windows complete the visual package, giving it a more mysterious and sporty air.
Exclusive Visual Elements of the Elroq vRS
- Exclusive Mamba Green color
- Specific vRS bumpers
- Hexagonal air intakes
- Glossy black trim
- vRS emblems
- 20″ wheels (21″ option available)
- LED Matrix headlights
- Tinted rear windows
Interior: Technology and Sportiness Hand in Hand
Inside, Škoda aimed to create an environment blending technology with the sporty characteristics of the vRS line. A dark theme prevails, but it’s highlighted with Lime Green accents in the stitching of the seats, steering wheel, and door panels. The upholstery combines fabric and Alcantara (a synthetic material resembling suede) in several areas, such as the sport seats with pronounced side supports and the panels.
Carbon fiber-like finishes attempt to add an extra sporty touch, while customizable ambient lighting helps create the desired atmosphere. At the center of the dashboard, a 13-inch display commands the infotainment system, which features graphics specific to the vRS version. The digital instrument panel is a mere 5 inches—a bit small by today’s standards, perhaps?—but it also features a unique layout. An augmented reality head-up display is offered as an option for those who don’t want to take their eyes off the road.
Comfort hasn’t been forgotten: the front seats come with electric adjustments, heating, and a massage function (optional for the passenger). USB-C fast-charging ports (45W), wireless charging for smartphones, and an optional premium sound system from Canton with 12 speakers and 675W complete the technological and convenience package. It seems like a great place to spend time, whether you’re speeding or stuck in traffic.
Launch and Pricing: The Big Unknown
Škoda plans to launch the Elroq vRS in its main global markets starting from the European summer of 2024. This means it should start appearing on the roads in the second half of the year. However, availability may vary significantly by region. The brand has already showcased the standard version of the Elroq in India to test interest, but there’s no confirmation if the vRS version will make it there, for example.
And the burning question: how much will this fun cost? Škoda has not yet released the official prices, but we can expect them to be significantly higher than the standard Elroq. vRS versions typically add a considerable “premium.” Here’s hoping that the traditionally strong cost-benefit ratio of Škoda doesn’t completely vanish with this spiced-up version. Get your wallets ready!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Škoda Elroq vRS
- Is it the fastest Škoda ever made?
Yes, in terms of 0 to 62 mph acceleration (5.4s), it is the fastest production model in Škoda’s history so far. - Is the range much lower than the regular Elroq?
There is a slight reduction (estimated to be around 6-12 miles) due to the focus on performance and all-wheel drive, but the ~342 miles (WLTP) are still competitive. - When will I be able to buy one?
Global launch begins in the European summer of 2024, with availability varying starting in the second half of the year. Check local availability. - Does it have fake engine sound?
Yes, it features two synthetic external sounds called “Sport” and “Futuristic” to compensate for the quietness of the electric motor. - Is it worth waiting for the vRS instead of the standard Elroq?
That depends on your priorities. If you seek maximum performance, sporty design, and all-wheel drive, the vRS is the choice. If prioritizing maximum range and a lower price is your aim, the standard versions may be more suitable.
The Škoda Elroq vRS arrives with an audacious proposal: to be the fastest car in the brand’s lineup, packaged in a stylish compact electric SUV format. It combines Škoda’s new visual identity with the traditional performance of the vRS badge, adding all-wheel drive and fast charging to balance the equation. What are your thoughts on Škoda’s venture into the performance EV world? Leave your comment below and share your impressions!
