Skoda Superb Combi 2.0 TDi 170 CV DSG, road test (Exterior design, interior, boot, equipment and price)

In the first part we focused on everything related to the engine, performance and handling of the Skoda Superb Combi we have tested. The engine is the well-known 2.0 TDI 170 CV paired with the six-speed DSG gearbox.

Now, in the second part, we turn to the exterior design (it’s true that it isn’t a design that wins hearts) but it is practical, as well as the interior, the boot, and finishing with the equipment and prices of the Skoda Superb.

Exterior design

When we look at the Skoda Superb Combi from the outside, we see a car of large dimensions (4.8 m) and a simple design, without bold shapes or strange lines; we could even say it is quite conservative in its design.

At the front the xenon headlights stand out, which come as standard, along with LED daytime running lights. Meanwhile, on the side profile you can see some elements of the Elegance trim, such as the chrome window surrounds and the lower chrome on the doors. The 18-inch alloy wheels on our unit are an option (325 euros); the standard fitment is 17-inch.

At the rear we see the large tailgate, electrically operated though this is also an option (455 euros), and the lights feature LED technology. Completing the ensemble is a large panoramic roof that lets plenty of light into the interior.

Interior design and finishes

Inside, with the Elegance trim you can choose between two combinations and colour schemes: on one hand, a camel colour and wood trim, and on the other, black with polished aluminium, which is the one on our test car.

The driver’s position is simple, with good materials and soft-touch plastics across the dashboard, but a sober design typical of the brand. As for the driving position, it is comfortable thanks to electric leather seats, with plenty of room for both feet and head and good visibility, even to the rear (large windows). The seats hold the body well, and the driver’s seat has memory.

The instrument cluster is complete but not colour, and shows the passing of time, though it offers all kinds of information and the on-board computer is comprehensive.

Moving to the rear seats is like flying directly in Business class, because the legroom available is similar to that of an Audi A8, or that of any minister’s car. Large, very comfortable seats, with rear air vents, a display showing the time and outside temperature, and heated seats (the latter optional).

To the enormous space offered to rear occupants you can add details such as the umbrella stored in the left door, a detail that caused considerable controversy, since only two cars offer it: the Rolls Royce and the Skoda Superb.

Boot and storage

The boot is huge, with a capacity of 630 litres, with various practical solutions for securing cargo and the optional electric tailgate, which is very handy (though watch out in low garages). But if 630 litres isn’t enough, with the rear seats folded the capacity rises to 1,835 litres: you could go to IKEA and bring back any wardrobe you like and it would fit perfectly.

In terms of storage there is a space in the centre console, plus cup holders and a central storage compartment, along with the large main glovebox and the big door pockets too.

Equipment

Within the equipment, the first thing we always analyse is the safety equipment that comes as standard on every Skoda Superb. Among these safety features we highlight: multiple airbags, stability control, knee airbags for front passengers, emergency brake assist, ABS, among other elements.

There are several trim levels (Active, Ambition, Elegance and L&K), with the standard equipment being very complete even at the base level: air conditioning, electric heated mirrors, fog lights, 8 speakers, 16-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, CD-MP3 radio, among other items.

Some equipment elements show the passing of time, but this does not mean they malfunction; this is the case with the navigation system (which has no USB port), though it remains practical to use and has plenty of functions. We also liked the sound from the 8 standard speakers.

Prices of the Skoda Superb

Thanks to the PIVE scrappage scheme campaign plus the discount associated with the arrival of the new model, the Skoda Superb is available with the 105 CV diesel engine and Active trim for 19,350 euros, while the Skoda Superb Combi with the same diesel engine starts at 20,350 euros. A price more typical of a compact than of such a large and fully equipped saloon as the Superb.

Overall verdict

With the newly presented new generation, the Skoda Superb is a very interesting model for its price and the discounts being applied. It comes very complete in standard equipment, and the most balanced engine for the Combi is the 2.0 TDI of 140 or 170 CV; if we opt for the 170 CV DSG version, it would be better with all-wheel drive.

The exterior design does not win hearts, but once we step inside, few models offer so much interior space and quality that is more than adequate for their segment at that price. In short, few cars offer what this Skoda does in equipment, space and quality, and even more so with the technology of the VAG Group, at very attractive prices.

Photos | R. Rodriguez and test team

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackSkoda Superb48 versions · from 47,000 €