VW ID.4, Audi Q4, and Skoda Enyaq: A Comparison of Three Unique SUV EVs

The demand for SUVs continues to rise, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) era, where the additional space beneath the cabin can be utilized for batteries. Volkswagen has developed a dedicated modular platform called MEB, which supports a variety of vehicle designs.

Currently, most vehicles built on the MEB platform are SUVs, with a few exceptions such as the VW ID.3, Cupra Born, and ID.Buzz. In this article, we will delve into the similarities and differences among the three most popular models based on the MEB platform: the VW ID.4, Audi Q4, and Skoda Enyaq iV.

Common Features

The foundation of these three electric SUVs is the MEB platform, resulting in shared engineering components. This commonality contributes to similar levels of rigidity and passive safety across the trio. All three models feature drum brakes on the rear axle, an advanced five-link rear suspension, and an independent front McPherson strut design.

The motor technology is consistent as well. The rear-wheel-drive variants are equipped with permanent magnet synchronous motors at the rear, while the all-wheel-drive models include an asynchronous induction motor at the front.

Additionally, all three vehicles incorporate the latest iteration of the Volkswagen Group's infotainment system, alongside enhanced mobile online services. Notably, an augmented reality head-up display is offered as an optional feature across all MEB vehicles.

Distinctive Features

Despite sharing the same platform, each model showcases a unique design, leading to variations in aerodynamic performance. The Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe boasts the best aerodynamics with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.23, representing a significant achievement for an SUV.

The Audi Q4 Sportback and VW ID.5 (the coupe version of ID.4) come in next with a Cd of 0.26. It's evident that the coupe versions of these SUVs, with their sleek designs, excel in aerodynamic efficiency.

Powertrain options also show variation among the three models. The base 109 kW motor is exclusive to the Skoda Enyaq iV and VW ID.4, while the 132 kW version is available only in the mid-tier Skoda variant. The ID.4 and Q4 both utilize a 125 kW motor. For all-wheel-drive configurations, the Enyaq offers options at 195 kW and 220 kW, whereas the Audi Q4 is only available in the 220 kW variant. Although the base 52 kWh battery is standard across all models, the mid-range 58 kWh battery is exclusive to the VW and Skoda models, with Audi omitting it from its offerings.

The most significant differences among the three vehicles arise within their interiors, as each brand incorporates its unique design approach—such as Skoda's "Simply Clever" features and Audi's premium accents. VW and Skoda share a similar layout, characterized by a large stand-alone infotainment screen and a 5.3-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel.

In contrast, Audi features a distinctive design with a larger 10.25-inch digital instrument panel capable of displaying maps, a slightly smaller infotainment screen integrated into the dashboard, and a separate climate control interface, unlike the climate control integration found in VW and Skoda's systems.

When it comes to cargo space, the Skoda Enyaq offers 585 liters, while the VW ID.4 provides 543 liters, and the Audi Q4 has 520 liters. Visually, the Skoda showcases a distinctive illuminated grille, while the Audi draws attention with its unique digital light signature created by Matrix LED headlights.

Conclusion

Volkswagen's strategy to launch a trio of similar models is not without merit. By sharing key components, they minimize manufacturing costs while providing distinct features and styles that cater to a broader audience. Although this may complicate the selection process, increased choice is certainly a positive aspect for consumers.