2017 Skoda Superb range review
What is it?
Large cars may be on the decline but Skoda has one of the biggest and best on the market. It is the Volkswagen Passat's larger cousin, offering up class-leading rear space that rivals the likes of the Holden Caprice.
The Superb is offered in both a sedan and wagon, which makes it an ideal family car for those looking to avoid an SUV.
How many models can I choose from?
There are three engines and three different trim levels to select from, along with the aforementioned sedan and wagon options.
All engines are 2.0-litre four-cylinder in size but there are two turbo petrol and one turbo diesel. The first petrol is the 162TSI, which produces 162kW/350Nm, and it sends that power to the front wheels only.
The second petrol powerplant is the 206TSI, the same engine found in the out-going Volkswagen Golf R hot hatch, so it is good for a potent 206kW/350Nm and it is coupled with a four-wheel drive system for better traction.
The third engine is the 140TDI which is also front-wheel drive only and produces 140kW400Nm.
All models use the same six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The 162TSI and 140TDI are available in one specification that includes 18-inch alloy wheels, Alcantara and leather trimmed seats, tri-zone air-conditioning, rear sun blinds, umbrellas hidden in the front door, heated front seats, Bluetooth, navigation and an eight-speaker sound system that incorporates an 8.0-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The 206TSI is available in two levels, standard and Sportline. The standard 206TSI has everything the 162TSI and 140TDI have but adds 19-inch alloys, LED ambient interior lighting, keyless entry and ignition, sports suspension (15mm lower than standard),
The 206TSI Sportline gets unique design and black finished 19-inch alloys, sports seats and a black Sportline styling package for the exterior (that includes the grille, mirrors and rear diffuser).
Photo: Mark Bean
What do they cost?
162TSI - $39,990 (sedan)/$41,690 (wagon)
140 TDI - $43,990 (sedan)/$45,690 (wagon)
206TSI 4x4 - $50,990 (sedan)/$52,690 (wagon)
206TSI Sportline - $51,990 (sedan)/$53,690 (wagon)
Any options that I need to know about?
Skoda offers options in set packages, rather than an a la carte menu. There are two to choose from - Comfort Pack and Tech Pack.
The former adds perforated leather seats with heating and cooling function on the front seats, heated rear seats and the ability to electrically control the front passenger's seat from the rear.
The latter brings Adaptive Chassis Control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, automated parking assist, hands-free tailgate and a 12-speaker Canton sound system.
Is it expensive to own?
European cars in general, and Volkswagen's in particular, have a reputation for costly servicing. Skoda's attempt to combat those concerned by the cost of ownership is to sell servicing packages, that owners can pay upfront so they know what they are in for. It also allows the cost to be added into the financing.
You can buy three years worth of servicing for $1300 or five years for $2650.
Photo: Mark Bean
Any issues I need to know about?
While Skoda enjoys the benefits of being so closely associated with parent company Volkswagen, it also comes with the same long-term question marks over reliability, servicing costs and re-sale value in the wake of the diesel emissions scandal.
Which is the most economical model?
The 140TDI is comfortably the easiest on fuel, consuming just 4.8-litres per 100km. That's an impressive claim for such a large car.
The 162TSI is arguably just as impressive though, for a petrol powered car, using a claimed 6.4L/100km. Even the 206TSI uses just 7.3L/100km, which is respectable for such a large car with a grunty engine.
Which is the safest model?
All Superb models get the same level of safety equipment. Every model comes with nine airbags (driver and front passenger, front side, rear side, curtain and driver's knee), low-speed autonomous emergency braking and a reversing camera.
However, as mentioned earlier, if you want all the active safety features Skoda offers then you need to add the Tech Pack.
Which the best model to drive?
Fundamentally the Superb is a nice car to drive, it has direct handling and a compliant and controlled ride. The 206TSI models are slightly ahead of the front-wheel drive models in terms of engagement for the driver.
The more potent engine endows the Superb with good pulling power off the mark and has strong punch in the middle of the rev range. However, if you're expecting hot hatch performance because it shares the same engine with the Golf R you'll be let down because the Superb is obviously a much bigger and heavier car.
The Sportline may sound sportier but it is a cosmetic package, so while it may look good it doesn't alter the dynamic performance of the car.
Should I buy one now?
The latest generation Superb was only launched in 2016 so you'll be waiting a long time for run-out deals. But, on the other hand, it is still a fresh car so there is appeal to getting in while it is still new.
Where's the sweet spot?
There isn't a bad choice in the Superb range so much will depend on what your needs are. Obviously the wagon adds more practicality and the Sportline has a dynamic edge to its appearance.
Ultimately I'd opted for the standard 162TSI wagon (after all, it is our reigning Drive Best Family Car) because it will do everything you expect from a large car, offering up plenty space for passengers and their luggage, a well presented interior and a polished driving experience.