Once a company that built a handful of compact cars, Skoda has recently expanded to include a midsize sedan, and since 2016 it entered the SUV market with no fewer than three models. Come 2020, and Skoda is taking yet another step toward new heights with the Enyaq iV, an all-electric crossover. Although this isn't Skoda's first EV, being preceded by the tiny Citigo iV, the Enyaq iV is the company's first vehicle built on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform, which is dedicated exclusively to zero-emission models. The Enyaq iV is essentially Skoda's own variant of the upcoming Volkswagen ID.4.

The 2021 Skoda Enyaq iV is based on the Vision iV Concept

It's borrowed many features from the Vision iV concept from 2019, including the muscular profile, the sporty bumper, and the wide grille flanked by angular headlamps. Although the grille is similar to other recently launched Skoda models, the wider separation area in the center makes it look similar to BMW's twin-kidney grille. Interestingly enough, the grille features a light bar that runs across the center. It's made from 130 LEDs, just like on the Vision iV concept, and gives the Enyaq a more premium look. As you might have already guessed, the light bar is optional on most models, coming standard on the range-topping RS version and the limited-edition Founders Edition.

The rear of the SUV isn't as spectacular as the front end, but it's proof that Skoda continues to develop its current design language. The base model rides on 18-inch steel wheels, a rare feature on a modern vehicle, but you can order rims up to 21 inches in size from the options list.

The 2021 Skoda Enyaq iV comes with exclusive features inside

The cabin of the Enyaq also looks familiar, perhaps because the design and layout are similar to the latest Octavia and Scala models. But the EV is equipped with features you won't find in another Skoda model anytime soon, starting with the massive, 13-inch touchscreen. It's also the first Skoda to feature a head-up display with augmented reality, as well as the first fitted with remote-controlled parking. Other highlights include umbrellas fitted in the front doors, an electrically operated tailgate.

The 2021 Skoda Enyaq iV is the most powerful Skoda ever built!

Powered by a big 82-kWh battery, the RS version comes with 302 horsepower and 340 pound-feet of instant torque on tap. That's 61 horses and 67 pound-feet more than the Octavia vRS. The electric SUV hits 62 mph in 6.2 seconds, which makes it the quickest Skoda ever, and tops out at 112 mph.

Skoda offers three more versions of the Enyaq, powered by either 55-kWh or 62-kWh batteries. There's an entry-level model with 146 horsepower and three mid-range variants that generate 177, 201, and 261 horsepower, respectively. Skoda offers both RWD and AWD layouts. Range varies depending on setup and battery size, but Skoda says that the base model will offer up to 340 km (211 miles) per charge. Opt for a single-motor, rear-drive Enyaq iV with the biggest battery pack, and range will increase to 510 km (317 miles) on the WLTP cycle.

Once you run out of juice, you can recharge the battery in six to eight hours using an AC wallbox of up to 11 kW. But there's also fast-charging capability of up to 125 kW that will charge the 82-kWh battery from five to 80 percent in just 38 minutes.

When will the 2021 Skoda Enyaq iV hit dealerships?

The all-electric SUV is already available for pre-orders, but deliveries won't commence until 2021. If you want to be among the first to drive the Enyaq iV, you'll have to order the limited-edition Founders Edition, which pays tribute to the company's founding members. Pricing information is not yet available.