For years, the name Škoda has lived in the back of this writer’s mind for one reason; as those ever‑present support cars in the Tour de France. Bright, dependable and relentlessly practical. They were part of the scenery and not something I ever imagined myself driving.
In the SUV world, the Euro option always felt like the quiet one in the corner, while big voices from the US, Korea and China dominated the conversation. Stepping into my first Škoda EV felt a bit like finally talking to the person you’ve seen at every party but never actually met.
It’s been more interesting than I expected too. The segment is stacked with heavy hitters and Škoda isn’t trying to out‑muscle them. Instead it plays a smarter game. What you get at the entry level is a surprisingly rich mix of features.
You also score thoughtful design, that unmistakable European sensibility, and a good price. The wheels are decent and as good a place to start as any. You can opt for 20-inch if you want to, and we probably would.
The LED lights look great but the busy lower grille treatment is a bit much. That said, the front is clean and works well with its silver trims. The optional Signature pack costs $6,000 adds a bunch of extra features.
That includes a surround view camera, a better sound system, head-up display, matrix LED lights, an upgraded driver’s seat, rear airbags and rear roll-up sunshades. Considering the base price, at just under $55,000 drive away, we think it’s well worth the money.
The Škoda Enyaq Select 60 SUV interior leans heavily into functional European sensibility, executed with a level of restraint that feels deliberate rather than cost‑cutting. The cabin’s pleasant cloth trim and grey fabric finish create a calm, modern atmosphere.
The overall layout is clean, intuitive and refreshingly unfussy. There are thoughtful touches everywhere too. The heated front seats are welcome but it’s the heated steering wheel that genuinely surprises.
Trimmed in soft leather, it’s perfectly sized and fitted with intuitive controls, including tactile silver roller dials. Second row seats are comfortable and there’s plenty of room. The rear centre console has two fold out cupholders.
If you get down far enough, you will find two USB-C charge points hidden in there too. The boot area has a powered tailgate and a respectable 585-litres of space. Fold the second rowe and that expands to 1,710-litres.
The driver’s information display is crisp and functional though undeniably compact. It gets the job done but the optional head‑up display is the upgrade most owners will want, adding clarity and presence that the standard screen can’t quite match.
Open the door at night and a large Skoda logo illuminates the ground beneath you. It’s not unique but is a nice addition. In true European fashion, Skoda’s signature umbrella is tucked neatly into the driver’s door.
At night the interior ambient lighting looks great and adds a luxury feel. The central 13.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is well laid out and intuitive. The radio had some issues finding decent reception but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connected in an instant.
Buttons are located below the screen, making selection of climate and drive modes easy. Further down is a wireless phone charger area and two cup holders. The cute and functional gear selector is works well.
Škoda doesn’t offer connected services or vehicle-to-load capability, but what you do get is a single electric motor driving the rear wheels via a 63kWh battery. Offering 150kW and 350Nm, it’s good for around 410km. Maximum charge rate is 11kW AC or 165kW DC.
On the road, the Škoda immediately shows a bit of spark. Despite an 8.1 second sprint to 100km/h, there’s a liveliness to the way it steps off the line and performance sits comfortably in the “more than adequate” category.
It’s not trying to be a performance SUV but it never feels underdone or strained. Around town it’s responsive and on open roads it is smooth and quite. Where things get interesting is in the handling.
It behaves exactly like a family SUV, and surprisingly so, given its otherwise energetic character. It’s comfortable, composed and predictable but push it into a fast, tight corner and it lets you know it’s not thrilled about being hustled.
There’s a hint of body roll and a touch of protest from the chassis, and while it’s nothing alarming, it is a reminder that it’s a family SUV. The suspension irons out bumps well. Braking takes some getting used to though.
It offers regenerative braking activated via the “B” position on the gear selector. The regen is progressive but lacks the feedback you want when modulating speed smoothly. Maybe it’s just time yours truly needed more of behind the wheel to get the hang of it.
Stronger regen and slightly heavier braking feel would be an asset when towing up to the Škoda’s 1,000kg limit. Overall though, the Enyaq Select 60 SUV delivers a lively and capable drive, with the comfort and practicality you expect from a family SUV.
It’s honest about what it is and it performs its core duties with confidence. It’s backed by a 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with 8-years coverage for the battery. You can find out more on the Škoda Australia website, or by talking to your local dealership.
To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One. To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by Škoda Australia for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this vehicle.
