Skoda Superb Combi 2.0 TDI 170 CV DSG, test drive (Engine, performance, handling and consumption)

Today in our test section we bring you a true king of space: there are few cars on our market as spacious and versatile, and even fewer in this price range, which is where the Skoda Superb sits. It is true that its replacement is already on the horizon, but for now it remains a very interesting estate.

We tested the Skoda Superb Combi with the most powerful diesel engine, the 170 CV 2.0 TDI, paired with the six-speed DSG automatic gearbox. In terms of equipment, our unit came in Elegance trim.

Engine and performance

Little needs to be said about the well-known 2.0 TDI, in this case in its classic 170 CV output (some models in the group now offer 184 CV, and the next generation will surely fit it too). It is an engine with more than enough power to move this large estate, responding efficiently from 1,500 rpm up to 4,000 rpm.

That said, for those who opt for this engine and estate body, the 4×4 version is recommended to get the most out of the powertrain and avoid power losses, which are normal given the generous torque (350 Nm / 1,750-2,500 rpm) sent directly to the front wheels.

The engine is paired with the six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which, as always, is very smooth and quick (it does not incorporate the coasting mode found on the brand’s latest models) and offers a Sport mode.

Handling

As soon as we got behind the wheel of the Skoda Superb Combi, we noticed that despite its dimensions it handled very nobly and steadily, the body movements were not very noticeable, and it even allowed some sporty liberties. The answer to this behaviour is the sport suspension that was optionally fitted (recommended for those who want a more dynamic estate).

On the open road it is a composed car, comfortable, with excellent interior comfort and good soundproofing, as well as on the motorway, where it offers maximum comfort. In the city it is less practical, despite the automatic gearbox, because its dimensions are not very urban and its almost five metres of length become noticeable when driving through towns or parking.

The steering has a correct feel, rather soft and power-assisted, but adequate for a family car. Meanwhile, the brakes stop the Superb Combi without any problems.

Consumption

During our test, on the motorway consumption hovered around 6.2 litres per 100 km, always driving at the legal speed. Meanwhile, on the open road consumption can drop to 5.5 litres, although it normally hovers around 6 litres per 100 km.

In town is where consumption suffers the most, given its size and power, and in this case, on our usual test route around Vigo, consumption was 8 litres per 100 km.

In the second part of the test we will analyse the exterior design of the Skoda Superb Combi, the interior, and above all those practical details that the Czech brand usually includes in its cars and that few other brands offer (such as the umbrella in the rear doors).

Photos | R. Rodriguez and test team

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackSkoda Superb48 versions · from 47,000 €