Skoda Superb - when the schoolgirl surpasses the master
Skoda has a very long history with the Superb model, so it cannot be said that until recently it was a newcomer to the mid-range car industry. Not everyone also knows that the first Superb appeared in 1934, although what really matters is what is the last, i.e. the last three generations of this car. The latest, third generation, debuted earlier in the year and was recently introduced in Florence, Italy.
As I already mentioned, Superb has been known for a long time, although most of the history of this car has been known since 2001, when the first generation of this model went on sale almost immediately, having won the sympathy of the recipients. Although at first some were skeptical about the car, because Skoda, associated with efficiency and modesty, suddenly began to claim the premium market, but rather quickly even skeptics were convinced of this functional, solid and comfortable car. Everyone associated this car with a higher class, although in fact it was a model positioned in the D segment - the same model in which the Passat reigned. The second generation of the model (designation B6), produced in 2008-2015, differed from its predecessor mainly in larger dimensions. The Superba II was built on the Volkswagen PQ46 floor platform that the sixth generation Passat (B6) was also built on. Then the comparison with the Passat was not always good for Skoda, as the hierarchy was clear. Will the third generation Superba and the newest Passat repeat the standards of years ago? It turns out that ... no.
Schoolgirl and master
Of course, it’s hard to predict the future by coffee grounds, but comparing the first impressions after the presentation of the latest Volkswagen Passat B8 and the third generation Skoda Superb, we can confidently conclude that the Czech can lick the nose of a German. Let's start with the look.
Skoda never tried to shock, did not impress either with its lines or unusual stylistic measures, and a few pranks in the form of a curved pillar or geometric shapes of lanterns were lost in the depth of regularity and general order. It's the same with Superb, but in this case everything is neatly distributed so that everything can be truly enjoyed. At present, comparable models of both brands are almost equal and have their own strong arguments. Interestingly, Volkswagen does not always win this fight. Many believe that Skoda has taken a step forward in terms of style, and if the previous generation Superb proved to be somewhat worse in the competition with the Passat, now it will be difficult to choose. It's true that you can see the resemblance to the smaller Octavia, but here you can see a lot more attention to detail.
At the front, we have bi-xenon headlights with built-in elements made using LED technology. In addition, we have a beautifully sculpted bonnet, a few ribs on the bodywork and plenty of sharp corners that give the car a dynamic and elegant feel, which is especially noticeable in higher versions, in particular Laurin & Klement. The wheelbase has increased by 80mm to 2841mm and we get LED taillights as standard.
It is worth noting that the trunk volume is now as much as 625 liters as standard. In comparison, the new Passat offers 586 liters - a small difference, but for the buyer it can be decisive. We should also not forget that access to this extra space is much more convenient thanks to the liftback body than in the case of a sedan.
Predictable interior
For many, predictability means boring without panache, but those who have respected Skoda until now will find only pluses in predictability. The Czech manufacturer focuses on equipment and comfort, rather than stylistic tastes, so the skeptics will certainly remain so, but on the other hand, this is not total boredom. Everything is in its place, at hand, the materials match those chosen at Volkswagen, as is the quality of the fit and the overall impression of a solid car. In addition, many will certainly appreciate the numerous solutions from the Simply Clever series, including a tablet stand at the back, LED flashlights, umbrellas in the doors, etc. First impressions are certainly positive, but if someone has driven a Japanese car before, they appreciated the interior design with a light scratching post and fantasy, he will be a little boring in Superbi. On the other hand, a lover of the German automotive industry and the simple style and functionality offered to buyers will certainly appreciate the advantage of substance over form. And not vice versa.
Common sense under the hood and in your pocket
The Skoda Superb engine offering is quite substantial, and several more versions are likely to debut. At the moment we have three versions of the engine, i.e. petrol 1.4 TSI 125 km/200 Nm or 150 km/250 Nm and 2.0 TSI 220 km/350 Nm, as well as diesel 1.6 TDI 120 km/250 Nm and 2.0 TDI 150. hp/340 Nm or 190 hp ./400 Nm. As you can see, there is something for the economical 1.6 TDI with 120 hp, as well as for those who are looking for more excitement - 2.0 TSI with 220 hp. Moreover, a petrol version with as much as 280 hp should appear soon. We'll wait and see. How about prices?
The cheapest model in the Active version with a 1.4 TSI engine with 125 hp. costs PLN 79, but let's face it, this is a poorly equipped version. In comparison, a Volkswagen Passat with the Trendline package and the same engine costs PLN 500, although the package includes much more. So, what is next? For a more powerful 90 hp TSI unit. we will pay 790 with the Active package. You have to pay PLN 150 for Ambition and PLN 87 for Style 000. The cheapest Laurin & Klement variety costs PLN 95. For this price, we get a 900 TDI engine with 106 hp. On the other hand, the top model of Laurin & Klement with a 100 TDI engine with 134 hp. costs PLN 600.
Brick success?
Exactly. Is the third generation Skoda Superb doomed to success? Perhaps that's a big word, but looking at the sales figures of previous versions and the fact that the latest model was received quite warmly, you can count on a large number of these models on the streets, both in private hands and in the form of official cars. The offer includes economical and reasonable equipment and engine versions, as well as really well equipped and comfortable top-end options such as the Style and Laurin & Klement with petrol or diesel engines. For more driving experience I invite you to the video test below!
