The Škoda Superb has always been a vehicle that prides itself on space. At the latter end of last year, I had the opportunity to drive the saloon version of the Superb and I fell in love with it. Couple this with my grá for estate cars and you can begin to imagine how much I was looking forward to getting my hands on the Superb Combi for a week long test drive. With the newest Superb, Škoda have gone above and beyond in delivering a car that ticks so many boxes when it comes to finding the ideal estate car.
Looking at the Superb Combi from the outside, the first thing that will capture your attention are the distinctive lines within the body which run from the wings all the way back to the rear lighting cluster. The rounded edges of the previous model have been made more angular and brought into line with more up to date vehicles within the segment. This allows the Superb Combi to put it up to its competition when it comes to striking, stylish looks that will stand the test of time. The Škoda Superb is available in four trim levels, Active, Ambition, Style and the range topping L&K. There is also a range of engine and transmission options available to choose from in both petrol and diesel and the Superb Combi is also available in 4×4 guise. The subject of this review is the 2.0 TDI DSG with a maximum power output of 150 bhp and is finished in Style trim.
Sitting inside the Škoda Superb Combi the first that you will greeted by is an abundance of space. Regardless of what seat you sitting in with the Superb Combi you will never have issue with the amount of headroom, shoulder space, legroom etc. It just offers endless space. The Style trim upgrades the interior finish to full leather with an option of a mix between alcantara and leather at no extra cost. This adds to the executive feel within the Superb Combi. Everything inside feels as if it has been finished to a very high standard. All of the materials utilised appear to be of a quality that will last well into the future with soft to touch materials being utilised on the upper cabin surfaces and the harder wearing materials being used lower down. Positioned discreetly within the two front doors you will also find two courtesy umbrella’s which are available as standard from Ambition trim upwards.
The Style trim also offers an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system which allows access to all of the vehicles relevant driving information, infotainment systems, Bluetooth which is standard on all models, and the full colour reversing camera. The reversing camera is a huge bonus as given the over-all length of the Superb Combi it’s very easy to forget exactly how far back that bumper is as you reverse. In general visibility is pretty good all around. Boot space with the seating in place is a whopping 660 litres which extends up to 1,950 litres when you fold down the rear seats. My test model was also equipped with the electric tailgate which means you don’t even need to go near the boot lid for opening and closing that can be done from the key.
The comfort that you experience when you initially sit into the Super Combi does not change once you take to the road. A considerable amount of work has obviously been done by the engineers at Škoda in order to ensure you hear little or nothing from the outside world once you settle in inside the Superb Combi. Power delivery from the 2.0 TDI engine paired with the DSG transmission is almost seamless. There is plenty of torque low down in the rev range and as a result you never have to over work the engine in order to pleasantly power along.
As you take to the open road you will not be disappointed. The suspension set-up is perfectly capable of dealing with the optional add-on of the 18-inch alloy wheels fitted to my test car. Handling is always surefooted and will constantly instil confidence in the driver and passengers alike. The steering is well weighted and precise and allows you to ensure you are always correctly where you want to be.
Now, to one of the biggest selling points for the Superb Combi, the price. There’s plenty of competition out there for the Superb Combi to go up against and it definitely offers the complete packing from stylish looks, spacious interior, excellent engine range and really, really competitive prices. The Superb Combi is available from €28,195 for the basic Active trim model with a 1.4 TSI petrol engine while the diesel models start from €29,475. This is a whole lot of car for the money you are paying. If you are so inclined, the top spec L&K spec accompanied by a 2.0 TDI 190 bhp 4×4 DSG will set you back €48,920.
My personal opinion is that the Škoda Superb Combi is one of the best all-rounders currently available on the market and really should not be overlooked if you are looking for real value for money.
Technical Specification 6 Speed Manual
Engine Size – 2.0 TDI
Fuel Type – Diesel
Power – 150 bhp
Torque – 340Nm
Acceleration (0 – 100km/h) – 9.0 seconds
Top Speed – 216 km/hour
Consumption (Combined) –5.4 litres/ 100 kilometres
CO2 emissions – 118g / km
Road Tax – € 200
Price – from €40,455
Model Tested – €42,777 including optional extras
