New Skoda Superb - first impressions

The innovative boot makes the Superb both a hatch as well as a sedan!



The new Skoda Superb, first shown at the Geneva Motor Show is all set to hit the road across the world, including India. The earlier version of the car, though quite accomplished for the practical, sensible guy, wasn’t quite attractive, fast or fun enough to sell in good numbers. The new car, though not exactly very fast or beautiful to look at, is still a huge improvement over the earlier variant as a lot of first ride reports on various automotive websites suggest. The new car handles better, looks better and comes kitted with high-levels of equipment - seven airbags, dual-zone climate control and a top-of-the-line music system all standard. We are non-committal about the exterior of the car, it doesn’t look very beautiful, but isn’t too bad either.
The car will be powered by an all-new 170PS 2.0-litre common-rail turbodiesel developed by the parent VW group. Reports suggest that it’s a smooth, efficient and powerful engine with a linear power delivery. Another popular option will be the 160PS 1.8-litre TSI (turbo) engine. Both the engines are mated with a six-speed manual transmission, but the twin-clutch DSG ‘box is really the one to go for. The auto tranny features six gears for the diesel engine and seven for petrol. A 3.6-litre 260PS FSI mill with an all-wheel drive system is also available for the smooth assassins.