The Skoda Elroq vRS offers noticeable improvements in power and handling, but its hefty £10,000 price premium over the already excellent 85 Edition model makes it hard to recommend. While the vRS delivers a more engaging driving experience, the value proposition simply isn’t there for most buyers.
Real-World Safety Confirmed
Car safety is often overlooked when consumers make purchasing decisions, yet it remains one of the most critical aspects of vehicle ownership. A recent internal poll at Auto Express showed safety ranked near the bottom of buyer priorities, though few would explicitly admit it’s unimportant. This disconnect between stated preferences and actual behavior underscores how easily we take safety for granted.
One real-world incident highlighted this point for the author’s family: a near-collision with a motorcyclist reinforced the Elroq’s protective capabilities. The wife of the reviewer reported feeling “very safe” during the incident, even though the car sustained significant damage. Though the Elroq has not yet been Euro NCAP tested, its structural similarity to the five-star-rated Enyaq suggests it will achieve similar high safety scores.
Performance Gains Come at a Price
The Elroq vRS boasts 335 horsepower, an increase from the Edition 85’s 282bhp. This upgrade translates into tangible acceleration and improved handling, though the stiffer suspension may not suit all drivers. The vRS feels more controlled in corners, but rough roads can result in noticeable body roll. Despite the performance boost, efficiency remains competitive: the reviewer has averaged 3.7 miles per kWh, close to the official 339-mile range.
The higher price tag—nearly £50,000 for the tested model—is the primary drawback. While the vRS offers more power, the base Elroq is already a highly capable vehicle, making the cost justification difficult.
Interior Quality and Space Remain Key Strengths
Skoda has made significant strides in interior quality, and the Elroq vRS continues this trend. The cabin offers ample space for families, with comfortable rear seats and high-quality materials. The infotainment system is intuitive and reliable, surpassing expectations for a brand once known for basic interiors. The Elroq excels at everyday usability, making it a practical choice for most buyers.
The Verdict
The Skoda Elroq vRS is an impressive car, but the price increase over the Edition 85 model is too steep to ignore. If performance is paramount, the vRS delivers, but for most consumers, the 85 Edition remains the more sensible option. The reviewer would choose the cheaper, equally capable 85 Edition over the vRS without hesitation.
