With dealer forecourts mobbed with electric vehicles and big SUVs, there remains an imperative place for the large diesel saloon – a segment Skoda has become synonymous for. The Superb, to be exact, has been the standard-bearer of the Czech brand’s range for more than 20 years. Now in its fourth generation it adds even more refinement and outstanding spaciousness.
Skoda has simplified the engine offering for Ireland, with a new 1.5-litre petrol mild-hybrid (150hp ) and a 2.0 TDI 110 kW (150hp ) diesel to choose from. The latter has been tested here, in the guise of a hatchback in 'Sportline' trim. All new Superb models feature either a six- or seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox, with manuals unfortunately no longer offered.
The seriously attractive Sportline trim keeps all the best features of the basic model, especially its roominess and clever details, but adds unique design elements and a wider range of equipment. The radiator grille frame, window frames, exterior mirror caps, elements in the front bumper specific to this trim level, the line in the rear diffuser and some details in the individual body variants are all finished in gloss black. While the Superb Sportline Combi boasts black roof rails, the hatchback saloon has a black strip on the tailgate diffuser.
The interior is as spacious as it gets in this segment, with the dominant Sportline features being the front sports seats with integrated headrest, electric controls and manually adjustable seat length. The Suedia Sport Design Selection includes front sports seats covered in Suedia material, which come with a massage function and heating. This optional choice features AGR-certified ergonomic seats upholstered in combination of leather and leatherette with perforation that adds ventilation to the massage function and heating. The 'lumbar' massage setting alone is reason enough to buy the new Superb Sportline. A stretched 645-litre boot is another USP of the Superb.
There are many other sporty details to be found inside the car. The headliner is again black, for example, while the decorative stripes on the dashboard and in the door panels have a carbon effect. The pedals have been given steel covers. And in front of the driver there is a three-spoke sports steering wheel upholstered in leather with black stitching and the Sportline logo. The interior atmosphere is enhanced by adjustable ambient lighting.
Regardless of what spec you choose for the new Skoda Superb, you will find a 13-inch free-standing infotainment display, a bank of physical dials, and a gear selector lever which has been moved to the steering column.
Back to the Sportline trim, and this gives the latest Skoda Superb an enhanced sports chassis, set 15 millimetres lower than in the rest of the Superb range. Steering is progressive, while LED Matrix headlights come as standard at the front, and LED headlights with animated turn indicators are standard at the rear. The keyless entry system automatically locks the car, too. Door handle lighting is also new.
Prices for the Superb Sportline start from €55,290 (€210 annual road tax ), with my press model donning an €868 optional graphite grey metallic paint. Fuel consumption from the smooth 2.0-litre diesel engine averaged 5L/100km, while a full 66-litre fuel tank will return more than 1,100km. Like all Skoda models built since 2022, the new Superb is compatible with HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil ), providing up to 90 per cent reduced CO2 emissions.
Skoda says its latest Superb can compete toe-to-toe with the best premium German cars on quality and refinement while trumping them in terms of spaciousness and value. And it's hard to disagree.
