Skoda Superb

Skoda Superb has propelled to third generation emerging larger, cosier and more upmarket. The predecessor introduced in 2009 was a pleasant change in the full-sized saloon segment which back then commanded more significance. Over the years the segment has suffered dearth of models owing to feeble response from Indian buyers. With this one, however it seems the trend could change.

The besotting saloon has upgraded not just in terms of styling but it is a step up as far as performance goes, especially compared to the preceding model. Not that the previous version was in any way disappointing, it was comfortable too, but things have improved overall in the new generation model as one would expect. MQB platform forms base for the new Superb just like Octavia. Engines powering new Superb are same but they have been modified to yield enhanced performance. For that matter it is important to mention here that Superb is offered in petrol and diesel engine choices. Transmission duties are handled by manual and automatic gearboxes. With all the updates making Superb totally worth a price bump, it is something which may not go down too well with Indian customers, especially considering the lean stature of the segment. Skoda Superb price in India has indeed been upped but it isn’t considerable, hence it still fits in the affordable tag. 

New Skoda Superb Exteriors 

Embracing the new MQB platform, Superb sees vital increase in length by 80mm. Styling seems to be inspired from Skoda’s Vision C concept. Draped in style, the first glance at the saloon would want you to keep looking at it. This apart, the full-size saloon measuring around 5 meters in length has a large stance and it also hints at a more spacious cabin. The large and wide hood in front features sharp lines. Fascia is marked by Skoda’s signature black finished wide radiator grille which gets chrome surround. 3D head light units are sharp and sleek while the horizontal fog lamps are placed a tad low on bumper. A prominent shoulder line running across the length of the flanks is supported by multiple creases. Massive wheels are entwined with multiple spoke alloys wearing a nice design. Window frame is lean and looks modish; ORVMs emerging from A pillar come with integrated indicators. Rear has been designed in tandem with front and flank, the windscreen cascades smoothly onto the boot. LED tail lamps are designed captivatingly and the best part is Skoda has not overdone the chrome use which works well for it. 

New Skoda Superb Interiors 

Space has to be the prime attribute here; there is heaps of room for passengers seated in front and  back. The quality of materials used has gone up too, and Skoda has made notable change to the design of the cabin. That said, the dashboard receives a new design, it is sleek and a lot has changed what we saw in the second gen model. Dual tone interiors of the model along with piano black finish and chrome accents educe class. Seats are draped in leather upholstery and are well cushioned, although they are placed a tad low but that does not ruin the thigh support both up front and rear. Everything inside the cabin seems extravagant courtesy the lavish space on offer that has been used aptly. Yet another pro is the quality evident in the dials and buttons placed on centre console that altogether up the ante for Superb. There are various storage points within the cabin, even the luggage compartment offers ample space for storage, with all seats up boot space swells to 625 litres.  

New Skoda Superb Engine Specifications & Transmission

Skoda has rolled out new Superb in two engine choices which includes 1.8 litre TSI petrol and 2.0 litre TDI CR diesel units. Both the engines have been altered to deliver improved performance. Petrol engine is available in two states of tune, although the power on offer is same at 177.5bhp but torque generated varies at 320Nm and 241Nm. Diesel mill falls short on power as against the petrol engine at 174.6bhp. Transmission duties are carried out by six-speed manual transmission and seven-speed DSG unit inherited from predecessor. Diesel engine gets 7-speed dual-clutch auto box missing on the manual transmission. Lower state petrol variants get manual tranny and higher output trims get automatic transmission. 

New Skoda Superb Features

New Skoda Superb is feature rich flaunting a mix of advanced gizmos such as 3D head lamps, horizontal LED fog lamps, power adjustable outside rear view mirrors and 2-piece LED tail lamps on the outside. 

New Skoda Superb Performance & Mileage

Claimed fuel economy rated by ARAI is 14.12 kmpl for the manual petrol powered variants. Automatic petrol trims deliver almost similar mileage at 14.67 kmpl, whereas the diesel automatic variant returns 18.19 kmpl.

New Skoda Superb Accessories & Infotainment

Skoda Superb’s new iteration gets SmartLink infotainment system with Apple’s CarPlay for iOS users and Android Auto system for Android users. There is a 610 watt audio system with 12 speakers and a 6.5 inch large touch-screen.

New Skoda Superb Braking & Handling

Handling is smooth; the car maintains its poise even at high speeds and feels light. The manual transmission is responsive and agile. Ride quality is good too, although it seems a tad stern. Braking force is powerful; the stopping power kicks in quite well in time keeping the car well composed. 

New Skoda Superb Safety & Security

Safety features aboard are pedestrian protection, multi-collision brake assist, fatigue detection system, hill hold control, anti-lock-braking system, multiple airbags including two in front for driver & co-passenger, side bags at front and rear and curtain airbags. 

New Skoda Superb Comfort & Convenience

Inside the cabin, Superb features 3nzone climate control, 12-way power adjustable seats in front with memory function, panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, paddle shifters in automatic variants, perforated & cooled seats for L&K variant among various others. 

New Skoda Superb Wheels & Tyres

Multiple spoke and modishly designed alloy rims are shod to massive tyres. Moreover, the grip on road is quite firm thanks to the large sized tyres. 

New Skoda Superb Competition

As of now, competition in this segment is not fierce, but we will see models being resurrected in future and Skoda Superb may be the tyro in that direction. Currently the saloon will fight out with Toyota Camry in the arena and then we have Honda Accord coming up and Volkswagen Passat which may be rolled out in hybrid variants.  

Pros:

Roomy cabin 
Feature rich
Powerful engines
Stellar performance

Cons:

Nothing really