During the 1980s and the 1990s Skoda didn’t have the best of reputations in Ireland and it fell victim to many of the same types of jokes that were directed at the likes of Lada and Fiat at the time. Then, all of a sudden their models started to grow in popularity in Ireland. Taxi drivers seemed to opt for it in their droves and families started purchasing the likes of the Skoda Octavia. Skoda’s recent successes may also be directed towards some clever marketing campaigns and promotions. The use the tag line “simply clever” and the space available in these machines are excellent. The Skoda Superb Combi was unveiled during 2015 and immediately it received excellent reviews from motor journalists for a better quality drive and unrivalled space.
We tested two 2.0 litre TDI models that offer 150 bhp and 190 bhp. The 150 bhp engine is a nice motorway cruiser and on paper it gives 0-100 km/h in just 9 seconds. The 190 bhp offering offers the same distance in a little less than 8 seconds. The 190 bhp version is mated to a six-speed DSG gearbox is available with four-wheel drive. The 150 bhp option is slightly more practical because it offers nice performance at a more-reasonable price. Other engines available but not tested by us are the 2.0 TSI engine which offers 280 bhp and the 1.4 TSI option offering 125 bhp.
The Superb is a very long vehicle and is just shy of five metres in length. Therefore it would be expected that its ride would be a bit sloppy. However, the Superb Combi surprises in this department. It can be wobbly on corners if driven with too much gusto, but if a driver takes turns in a normal manner then there is no major issue here. Depending on what mode the Superb is driven in the suspension can deal nicely with bumps and bruises in the road too.
The diesel engines do make a noise when put under pressure but this wouldn’t be any worse than any other diesel offering we’ve driven. We’ve had a short drive in the saloon Superb with a petrol engine and found it to be silent and very refined. The Superb Combi also deals well with road and wind noise.
Most new Skodas punch above their weight when it comes to interior quality within. The Rapid would be one of the few models that doesn’t meet the same high standards. The Superb’s quality is excellent. The interior offers limo-like comfort.
The new Superb scored a full five stars in the Euro NCAP during 2015. It scored 86% for adult occupancy, 86% for child occupancy, 71% for pedestrian safety and 76% for their safety assistance systems. Safety systems that are available include a lane assist system as well as an emergency brake system which helps to avoid impending collisions.
The Superb Combi is unrivalled when it comes to space. Legroom to both the front and the rear is excellent. The boot is the biggest in its class at 660 litres. The only criticism we would have is the tunnel on the floor in the middle of the back row means that centre rear passengers have to put their feet on either side of it.
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