The Skoda So far, Superb has been considered an inexpensive, if somewhat more staid, alternative to the VW Passat. The traditional now gives way to attractive forms, and modern technologies are also introduced. The prices remain cheap - at least if you compare them with the Wolfsburg group competitor. The Skoda flagship, available from mid-June, costs from 92 euros in conjunction with the 125 kW / 1,4 hp 24.590-liter petrol engine.
The sedan is not lacking in contrast to the two previous generations of creative self-confidence. With her wide front with large grille, the eye-catching headlights and striking folds on the bonnet, she lays out a successful, stylish appearance. The tailgate is now made in one piece, which looks much more elegant than before.
Although Passat and Superb use the same platform, they have been modified for use in the Czech flagship. The wheelbase here is 2,84 meters, eight inches more than its predecessor and five inches more than the Passat. In addition there are gains in width and length, so that the 4,86 meter long sedan offers plenty of room for movement for the occupants. The trunk volume (625 to 1.760 liters) makes the viewer almost speechless. If you ordered the fold-down passenger seat (option), you can even stow items up to 3,10 meters in length.
The range of engines now exclusively consists of direct-injection four-cylinder turbocharged engines and also comes from the current Group portfolio. It includes five gasoline engines (from 92 kW / 125 PS to 206 kW / 280 PS) and three diesels (88 kW / 122 PS to 140 kW / 190 PS). Power is transmitted by six-speed manual gearbox or DSG (six- or seven-speed, surcharge: 2.000 Euro). 4WD (extra charge approx. 1.800 Euro) is optionally available.
It doesn't always have to be diesel. The 110 kW / 150 hp 1,4-liter TSI with cylinder deactivation (ATS) offered for the first time by Skoda is the pleasant companion for relaxed drivers. With 250 Nm it is not a pulling through miracle, but with a little shifting joy you can get it under control. The engine likes smooth gliding in the speed range between 1.400 and 4.000 revolutions by shutting down two cylinders. Up to 0,5 liters less fuel per 100 kilometers should flow through the fuel lines. The very comfortably tuned chassis also helps to relax.
The processing of the materials has an above-average effect and depending on the equipment variant - there are four options available - a luxury trip is at most a glimpse of the price list. Although the Active basic equipment is quite neat, it is only really comfortable with the higher levels. Surcharge options such as for the now lush arsenal of assistants, but also for navigation, electrically opening tailgate or panoramic roof make for brilliant eyes of the dealer and let the Superb compete in this regard quite well with the Passat.
Author: Elfriede Munsch / SP-X