At 4,861mm long and 1,864mm wide, the new Superb is 28mm longer and 47mm wider than its predecessor
We get behind the wheel of Skoda’s flagship model the Superb, so can it live up to its name asks Suzanne Keane
What is it? The 3rd generation of the Skoda Superb promises new levels of creativity, design and spaciousness at a premium level.
Who is it aimed at? The Skoda Superb has always been an ideal motorway cruiser chosen by those covering long distances for business but in estate form it’s ideal for active families and those needing plenty of luggage space.
Styling? Parked beside the previous model is where you’ll really notice the styling improvements that have been made – the smooth lines of the Superb are quite eye catching although I’m not sure the Business Grey Metallic colour is the best choice to show them off so if you’re buying choose wisely!
Under the Bonnet? The model tested was the 2.0L TDI with 190bhp which will do 0-100km in 8 seconds with a top speed of 237kmph.
What about inside? Inside the cabin is luxurious and a great mixture of textured black materials are used throughout. The illuminated green trim line across the dashboard and doors ads to the futuristic feel and all controls are easy to use and within easy reach of the driver.
If you’ve got an Android or Apple phone SmartLink technology offers connectivity for both and SD card & USB ports ensure you can customise the in car experience. The Skoda “Little Driver” app is available for free download to tablets and is designed to keep kids occupied on longer journeys by allowing them to earn points through simulated driving.
The Superb is brimming with new technology
Rear leg room is where the Superb really shines – there’s plenty of space for 2 tall adults to stretch out and the boot is huge – in fact it’s nearly easier to climb in rather than reaching to retrieve items from the cavernous space. WiFi capability for the Superb is available as an option and starts at €87.
On the Road? On the road the Superb is extremely stable while being very agile for its size. This car was tested during a particularly icy week around Munster and it cruised around back roads and main routes with ease. Despite being quite a large car it’s easy to manoeuvre and even though the test car had 19” wheels with low profile tyres it was very comfortable.
And Safety? Standard equipment includes Emergency City Brake, ESC, Front side, driver’s knee and curtain airbags, daytime running lights and a tyre pressure warning light.
What are my Options? The basic “Active” trim comes with LED rear lights, Cruise Control, start stop technology, dual zone air conditioning, leather multifunction steering wheel, 8 speakers and height adjustable front seats.
The mid-range Ambition comes with 16” alloys, an umbrella built into the front doors (ideal for the Irish climate), Bi-Xenon headlamps, 6.5” touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, heated front seats and lumbar adjustment.
Standard trim on the Style includes 17” Alloys, full leather interior, tri zone air conditioning, 8” touchscreen system with sat nav, reversing camera and sensors all round and heated windscreen washer nozzles – optional equipment on the test car included tinted rear windows, electric tailgate and 19” alloys.
Top of the range L&K models come with 19” alloys, Auto dimming headlights, 10 speaker sound system and a foot sensor for the boot door.
Will it break the bank? The Skoda Superb starts at €26,795 for a 1.4 TSI 125bhp Petrol model in Active trim rising to €47,345 for a 2.0TDI 190bhp 4×4 DSG in L&K trim. The test car cost €37,295 (without options) and will set you back €190/year on road tax while consuming 4.1l/100km.
So the verdict? Having driven previous incarnations of the Skoda Superb I was expecting comfort and smoothness but was pleasantly surprised by the interior finish and the quality of materials used – however despite these improvements I do think the price tag may be a little steep for loyal Skoda drivers.
Why you’ll buy one? Handling, Economy, Space
Why you won’t? Price
Rivals
Mazda 6
VW Passat
Ford Mondeo
2015 Skoda Superb Style 2.0TDI 190bhp
Engine: 2.0 TDI Diesel 190bhp
Max speed: 237km/h
0-100 kph: 8 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax): 106g/km (€190)
Model price range: €26,795 – €47,345 (Test Car – €37,295)
No of Doors: 5 doors
Euro NCAP : 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 4.1l/100km (68.9 mpg)
Boot Capacity Seats up : 625 litres
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4861mm
Width: 1864mm
Height: 1468mm
Wheelbase: 2841mm
For more information check out Skoda.ie, the Skoda Facebook page or follow them on twitter here.
Suzanne Keane
21st January, 2016
