First impressions of this 3rd generation Superb – it’s big, really big! An S class for the masses, if you like. That translates into what must be one of the most spacious interiors available, and even with the front seats moved all the way back, there’s still a decent amount of room for those being chauffeured. All this interior room doesn’t comparmise the boot either, which at 625 litres, is pretty cavinous.
The exterior design isn’t exactly cutting edge and is obviously a product of the VW family, but it’s a smart looking thing which could easily be mistaken for something more ‘premium’. A definite improvement on the previous generation. Inside, again little effort has been made to hide it’s VW group origins (why should it?), with plenty of familiar looking design, switch gear and materials dotted around the cabin. While this means it’s not exactly the most original interior, it does mean it’s got a quality feel with tried and tested ergonomics. It’s a comfortable place to be and the overall build quality is excellent with no annoying squeaks or rattles.
The ‘infotainment’ system is excellent, although one reoccurring issue is that the touch screen does seem a bit reluctant to work properly on cold mornings, eventually coming to life once the car has warmed up a bit. Not something I’ve found with touch screen systems in other cars. As well as DAB, SatNav and Bluetooth, it also features Apple Car Play compatibility. For the non techies, this allows seamless integration with iPhones for music and phone calls via a very Apple-esque interface. It also makes use of Siri voice recognition technology to read text messages to you and allows you to dictate a reply. Given the lack of attention the average driver seems to pay whilst on the road, I’m not sure if it’s a good idea but it’s clever stuff nevertheless.
When the car first arrived, I wasn’t sure of the exact spec so was a little surprised to find that it was a 1.6 not a 2.0 diesel under the bonnet. It’s not exactly quick and it did struggle occasionally, but the 118 BHP does a better job than expected at hauling around a car of this size. If it had to be diesel, then one of the more powerful two litre options would be a better bet – more power is always better, right? The six speed manual gearbox was good, but for me (and I hate to admit it), an auto or DSG ‘box would be better suited. The manual seems a little at odds with the big comfy barge character of the car.
Driving wise, it’s pretty much as expected – comfortable, refined and easy to drive. It’s not particularly exciting and won’t have the petrolhead in you rushing for the keys, but it does what it’s designed to do very well. If you drive a bit more enthusiastically than the typcial owner, it responds well with decent body control, plenty of grip and a composed ride. The latter no doubt helped by a sensible wheel/tyre size combo, rather than the ever increasing trend for too much wheel and not enough tyre. Switching on Sport mode (always a natural instinct) doesn’t seem to make a huge difference other than to add some weighting to the normally light steering. However, it felt artificially heavy and doesn’t really provide any extra feedback, just weight, and I actually preferred driving with it turned off.
Economy is impressive, averaging in the low 50’s mpg on a steady 35 mile commute, with a maximum of 58 when trying. The ‘CHANGE GEAR NOW!’ indicator is annoyingly over zealous, often seeming to want you to shift to the point of the engine almost labouring. Needless to say, this is better ignored. Equally impressive is the range – I’d estimate it at approximately 700-750 miles to a tank.
Even in standard spec, it’s a well equipped car. Adaptive cruise control, dual zone climate control and rear parking sensors (handy on a car this size) are all included. Plus nice touches like the Rolls Royce style umbrellas in the doors. On top of that lot, our test car also came with a number of extras including, alcantara/leather upholstery, xenons, heated seats, lane assist and blind spot detection. All in all a very well spec’d car and a nice place to spend the the daily grind to work.
The move more up market, results in the envitable price increase – including options our test car was nearly £28K. Probably not significantly cheaper than some competitors (including it’s VAG stablemates) but it’s a lot of car for the money and if you’re after a big, comfortable, well equiped, family car then the Superb is hard to ignore. Awhile back, naming a Skoda ‘Superb’ could have been seen as brave move, now though it seems very appropriate for what is an excellent car.
CAR: Skoda Superb SE Hatch
PRICE: From £21,590 (as tested £27,755)
ENGINE: 1.6 TDI, 4 cylinder, 6 speed manual
POWER: 118 BHP
PERFORMANCE: Top speed 128 mph 0-62 mph 9.9 secs
CONSUMPTION: 68.9 mpg (combined)
CO2: 108 g/km
TT Rating:
