The Superb has now won nearly 30 top awards across Europe since its official premiere at the Geneva Motor Show last year. Most recently it has been named Car of the Year 2009 in the Czech Republic. Škoda has sold over 20,000 new Superbs across Europe since launch. The all-new Superb – the third model to wear the famous badge – confirms Škoda as one of the world’s most innovative and exciting car manufacturers. Recalling an evocative name from Škoda’s past, the new Superb is not only the most luxurious car Škoda has ever built; it is one that will set new standards for quality, practicality, design and value. The new Superb is a car that will change perceptions. Sitting at the top of the Škoda product range, it demonstrates that through bold design and engineering innovation, Škoda has created one of the most desirable cars in the sector. It also alters the perception of value for money. As with its predecessor, the new Superb dispels the old motoring myth of ‘you get what you pay for.’
The styling looks upmarket and has a polished luxury image. Let’s hope the badge snobs don’t cut off their noses to spite their face as the saying goes, they will be missing out on a great opportunity to buy a great car. The range of engines for the new Škoda Superb fulfils the needs of every customer and presents a wide-ranging variety. There are three petrol and three diesel engines available on Superb; including the GreenLine delivering low CO2 emissions (136 g/km) and even greater fuel efficiency (55.4 mpg combined). All of the engines operate with direct fuel injection and excel as a result of their low fuel consumption and emission values. Customers have the choice of four trim levels; entry level S, mid range SE, GreenLine and top of the range Elegance.
The specification is high though and even includes the limousine function of having an umbrella stowed in the rear door. Front-seat comfort is great, with the driver able to adjust steering wheel and seat. But the rear-seat passengers have the best experience. Only the S-class Mercedes-Benz offers as much space in the back. If you've ever owned a VW, then a lot of the controls will look and feel familiar. They also click reassuringly into place, which adds to the impression of quality. The goodies list seems endless so the new owners will get lots of car for their money. I will just pick out the main items as a matter of record. There are 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, subtle chrome trim, electrically operated door mirrors with integrated indicators, front fog lights and Halogen headlights. Inside there are heads rests for all five seats, an eight speaker sound system, air conditioning which includes the glovebox, front, side and curtain airbags, electrically operated front and rear side windows, electronic stability programme, executive style armrests, trip computer, remote central locking, leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob/gaiter and split folding rear seats to make the best use of the rear tailgate and huge load space.
Given its imposing size, the Skoda is surprisingly agile on the move. Well-weighted steering and good body control make it extremely capable on twisting back roads. Buyers wanting even more grip can specify the optional four-wheel drive transmission, which is standard on the range-topping 3.6-litre V6 car. Even more impressive is the car’s comfort and refinement. The supple suspension manages to smooth out the worst road surfaces, while wind and engine noise are kept to a minimum. The Superb comes with a two-year unlimited mileage factory warranty, plus a third year valid until the car has completed 60,000 miles. Additionally, the coverage includes a 12-year warranty against corrosion and a 3-year paint warranty. Like its predecessor, the Superb delivers a first-class ownership experience
