Skoda enyaq higher-spec versions of this electric suv get a more powerful motor as part of an update on sale now price from £38,970

GYM MEMBERSHIPS TEND to spike at the beginning of each year, with many people planning on improving their health and fitness. You could say the Skoda Enyaq electric SUV has followed that trend, having just arrived in the UK with a refresh and a new spring in its step.

The entry-level 60 is unchanged, but higher-spec versions gain a more powerful and more efficient electric motor to drive the rear wheels. These include the single-motor 85 and dual-motor, four-wheel-drive 85X (previously badged 80 and 80X respectively), as well as the vRS performance model.

In the 85 model that we’ve tested so far, power takes a healthy leap to 281bhp (80bhp more than before), which trims the 0-60mph time down to 6.5sec (from 8.2sec). The level of performance is well judged; it won’t shove you back into your seat like some electric cars do, but the 85 builds momentum more eagerly than its predecessor.

Battery capacity remains the same as before, but the improved efficiency of the new motor lifts the 85’s official range to 348 miles (from 333 miles in the 80), making it the version that can travel the farthest between charges. While the 85’s peak charging rate remains at 135kW, the 85X and vRS now have a higher charging rate of 175kW; a 10-80% top-up can now take as little as 28 minutes, eight minutes less than with the 80.