Test drive Skoda Superb Combi and VW Passat Variant: duel of brothers

The two sister station wagons in powerful versions combine dynamism and performance.

With small exterior but rather major interior changes, VW and Skoda's biggest station wagons have launched for the new model year. In this internal match, the Passat and Superb are performing in their top-end versions with 272 hp.

It's been a few months since we finally discussed the benefits of the three station wagon models to see if they really are the best of their kind. It was about the Audi A6 50 TDI, BMW 530d and Mercedes E 350 d - and finally we agreed that the Touring version of the BMW 5 Series really deserves a standing ovation and victory in the test.

However, after comparing driving the recently updated Skoda Superb and VW Passat, doubts arose - because, putting aside the image bonus and wonderful six-cylinder diesels and instead focusing more on justifying price and everyday benefits, these mass models with four-cylinder gasoline engines and dual transmission are at the forefront. In terms of space, temperament and functionality, both station wagons are just as good, and with their high-end equipment and upgrades of the upper class after model updates, they are state of the art, comfort, assistants and infotainment system. systems. In terms of technology, there is still unity between the two concern brothers, and the difference in prices is not particularly striking. In Germany, VW is asking €51 for a top-of-the-line Passat with a dual gearbox, seven-speed DSG and Elegance equipment. For the sporty R Line performance of the test car with progressive steering, electronic differential lock (XDS+) and impressive 735-inch wheels, €19 is charged.

A Skoda model with identical drivetrain and tires in the newly created Sportline version can be ordered for 49 euros. Obviously, the prices are quite confident, but the equipment is also rich. Both models include matrix LED headlights, adaptive suspension with automatic air conditioning and sports seats. In addition, the Passat comes standard with distance-adjustable cruise control, traffic jam assistant, parking alarm, movable boot floor and safety bulkhead. The cheaper Superb opposes the power tailgate.

Nobody offers more space

When this lid, which proudly has the brand's name inscribed in large letters, is opened, connoisseurs of the huge cargo space should immediately make a purchase decision. Because with a volume of 660 to 1950 liters, there is currently no other station wagon that can accommodate more luggage. At the same time, Superb has the right to transport 601 kg (instead of 548 for Passat), and the load threshold is 4,5 cm lower.

However, it does not boast of a VW split in three parts. Underfloor containers, in which you can store the roll lid and netting after some training, are available for both models, as well as all locking systems for safely transporting luggage. On the Passat, however, the bale cover cannot fit into the intermediate container if the vehicle is equipped with an additional floor that slides on sturdy aluminum rails.

The passenger space on offer doesn't need to be wordy because there's a lot of it in both cars - with little benefit to the VW in terms of headroom. However, the luxurious size of the space in front of the feet of passengers from the rear seats of the Skoda is out of reach.

Approximate equality also reigns in the field of entertainment and driver assistants, which since the update are completely on the level of the noble station wagons mentioned at the beginning. Both the Superb and Passat are very well connected to the network via their own SIM card and can even be opened with a smartphone, and on the highway they are quite adept and partially autonomous in tracking the lane and adjusting their speed.

In addition, the Passat seduces with a fully wireless smartphone connection and an impressive infotainment system, which, however, with its complex menus, can overshadow the joy of the system's many functions costing more than 3000 euros. Here Skoda is a little more restrained and did not write the most colorful operating system on its hard drive. Accordingly, the control of functions becomes a little more intuitive.

Lots of power and comfort

The passengers of these vans are already drowning in luxury. Smooth running and well-soundproofed turbocharged petrol engines under the front hoods provide fast and pleasantly uniform traction, while dual-clutch transmissions shift gears smoothly and quickly. At the same time, 350 Newton meters at 2000 rpm guarantee a low level of speed, not to mention confident road traction thanks to a dual transmission with an electronically adjustable plate clutch on the rear axle. Even the test flow rates of 9,5 and 9,4 l / 100 km are acceptable given the power offered.

The ride comfort of the DCC adjustable suspension is also at a high level. In particular, Superb (depending on the selected mode) is responsive and calmly and pleasantly overcomes even bumps. In direct comparison, the Passat appears to ride heavier and not soften as neatly, but it undoubtedly delivers impressive ride comfort.

You might think that VW is offering a sportier wagon instead, but that's not the case. Not only does our steering system not work more precisely and accurately at our Lara test site than the equally good feedback from Skoda, but the Superb's tendency to wobble is also quite limited. In this way, both wagons can drive without much tension, but still corner extremely energetically, neutrally and safely. The only thing the Passat doesn't like are the sharp turns some expect from the evolving R Line station wagon with 250 km/h sports tires.

As for the more impressive Superb, probably no one has such expectations even from the Sportline version. At the same time, the standard sport seats with integrated headrest not only look chic, but also offer nice touches. The lateral support is very good, the long seat slides forward and thanks to the Alcantara upholstery there is no slipping. The brake capabilities are not so convincing - after all, for a complete stop at 100 km / h in a cold system, the Skoda model needs 2,1 m more than the lighter Passat 24 kg. However, there are no signs of weakening of the braking action during repeated attempts - the negative acceleration always remains in the range from 10,29 to 10,68 m / s2.

After tallying all the points, the Passat leaves the race as the winner, and the question arises what could do a comparable motorized and even more expensive BMW "Five" Touring better. But that's another story again

Conclusion

1. VW Passat Variant 2.0 TSI 4Motion Elegance (465 points)Slightly more agile, better quality and, thanks to a multitude of support systems, the technically better equipped, richly equipped, but more expensive Passat takes the first place in this comparison.

2. Skoda Superb Combi 2.0 TSI 4 × 4 Sportline (460 points)Yes, it's only second place, but the Superb offers so much space combined with a high level of driving comfort and utility! The braking system has minor flaws.

Text: Michael von Meidel

Photo: Hans-Dieter Zeifert