There was once a time when Skodas were synonymous with cheap, low-quality cars. But since the car maker was taken over by VW in 2000, it’s been turned around. Now it makes some of the best cars out there.
The new Skoda Superb Estate builds on the foundations of the hatchback. The hatchback version was favourably reviewed for its range of modern features and low pricing. Now Skoda has returned and done the same with the estate version of the car.
The biggest success of the car is how it manages to combine so many essential elements all into one package. The car is consummately practical, thanks to its large cabin and boot. But it’s also supremely comfortable. On the inside, the car feels a lot more like an Audi or a BMW than it does a cheap Asian car.
There’s also a broad choice of engine. These include a selection of four-cylinder petrol cars as well as some diesel options. The smallest petrol engine for the car is a small, 148bhp 1.4-litre engine. But the range goes all the way up to a 2.0-litre Skoda engine that manages to produce an impressive 276 bhp.
Most buyers, however, will want to stick with the diesel versions. The regular diesel engine is a 1.6 litre TDI that’ll generate 118bhp. The range-topping diesel engine will develop more than 189 bhp. There’s also a small, Green Line trim, which will do 76.4 mpg.
Compared to the petrol engines, the diesels offer far more economy. The least fuel-efficient diesel will still do well over 50 mpg, which is more than the equivalent petrol engine. And you’ll still get the benefits of driving with an automatic gearbox since this is included across the range. Just make sure that you don’t put the wrong fuel in car if you’re used to petrol-engined cars.
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Interestingly, Skoda is also keen on the idea that the Superb Estate should be four-wheel drive. The option to have all-wheel drive is there for every car in the range, except the budget versions. And it’s available for £1,500 on top of the asking price. This is ideal for anybody who thinks they’d benefit from the extra grip, but doesn’t want to spend a fortune on a different manufacturer.
So what are the downsides of the car? Well, one of the things that some have complained about is the state of the interior. Yes, it’s smart and comfortable. But it’s also a little dull and drab. Interestingly, the same criticism has been levelled at VW cars recently. So perhaps it’s VW driving the division’s more utilitarian approach to design.
Then there’s the problem of the steering. Granted, the car was never intended to be a driver’s car. It was always for budget-minded families looking for something practical. But competing cars, like the Ford Mondeo Estate, do manage to do a good job on the steering front. So it’s a shame that Skoda isn’t able to compete on the drivability front. With that said, you can’t argue with the price. Skoda Superb Estates start from £20,260.
