Practical, spacious and full of kit; it's a 'Superb Estate'

Introduction

Everything the Skoda Superb Hatch is, just with more space. In a nutshell, that’s what the Skoda Superb Estate is all about.

Boasting better practicality than the outgoing Superb Estate, Skoda’s tagline of “travel in style, travel in space” is rather fitting for the model – especially when you consider the significant design tweaks to the latest-generation’s front-end. 

Already known for its uber-spacious interior, the Superb Estate also has the Germanic Volkswagen vibe all over it, due to it sitting under the VW umbrella and being based on the brand’s ever popular MQB platform.

Expected to claim a 61 per cent split of the UK sales, it is massively important for Skoda to get the Estate right. So, let’s see whether it can live up to its rather big-headed ‘Superb’ nametag.

Performance

As with the previous-generation Superb Estate – and the Hatch variant – engine options are aplenty. Thankfully, even the entry-level 123bhp 1.4-litre TSI petrol derivative is a pleasure to drive, with smooth acceleration and surprisingly potent punch at 1,400rpm and above. 

If you are specifically after petrol performance then there is a 276bhp 2.0-litre TSI unit that can deliver a zero to 62mph sprint time of just 5.8 seconds – and this comes mated to the DSG automatic gearbox.

The diesel options, however, are where most people will end up. Under the diesel classification sits a series of 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre TDI units. Although there are several power and transmission variations available, the 2.0-litre TDI 148bhp mated to a manual gearbox delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy – and is expected to be the best-selling derivative.

With a benchmark sprint time of 8.9 seconds and 340Nm of pulling power, the 2.0-litre TDI is incredibly flexible and, thanks to the slick six-speed manual gearbox, is a joy to drive at any speed, be it on the motorway or in city.

Ride and Handling 

Even though it is slightly bulkier than the Hatch model (although only a mere 5mm longer) the Superb Estate feels just as nimble.

Aimed at those who want a comfortable cruiser, the Superb hardly ignites your appetite when it comes to driving dynamics, as the steering lacks feedback. But what it lacks in engagement it more than makes up for with a plethora of comfort credentials, like a supple suspension, well-insulated cabin and reassuring levels of grip. There is, however, a fair bit of noise that enters the cabin if you hit a bump.

For those who feel they really need the extra traction, there are 4x4 derivatives available – however, these are unnecessary if you are not intending on really putting it through its paces. The two-wheel drive models can more than handle themselves. What it lacks in engagement it more than makes up for with a plethora of comfort credentials.

Did you know?

The Skoda Superb name dates all the way back to 1934. It was the Czech-brand’s first V8 and all-wheel drive vehicle.

Interior and Equipment

Storage space is of course a major part of any estate and much to the satisfaction of Superb fans, the latest model delivers. With a 660 litre boot with the seats up and a total of 1,950 litres with the seats down, its boot is 190 litres bigger than the Superb Hatch and 170 litres bigger than the VW Passat Estate. 

On the practicality front, Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ features are welcome additions, with 31 of them scattered throughout the car. Some highlights include Velcro luggage separators and magnetic 48 hour battery torches in the boot, an extra-grip cup holder that allows you to open a bottle with one hand and an electrically operated tailgate that can be activated by waving your foot under the rear bumper.

There are five trim levels to choose from: S, SE, SE Business (from mid-2016), SE L Executive and Laurin & Klement. All models have an upmarket feel thanks to a slick and ergonomic dash design, similar to that of many other VWs. You will certainly be happy spending long journeys behind the wheel. 

Entry-level models feature Bluetooth, DAB digital radio, 16-inch alloys and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Most will probably opt for the SE trim as this brings rear parking sensors, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and dual zone air-conditioning.

Cost

Thanks to a 30 per cent improvement in fuel economy, the Superb Estate is more affordable to run than ever before. The most efficient engine on offer is the 118bhp 1.6-litre TDI model, emitting just 105g/km (£20 a year to tax) and claiming to return an average of 70.6mpg. This frugality is partially thanks to the presence of a seventh gear on the DSG auto model.

Entry-level models start from £19,840, which is around £2,500 less than the VW Passat. If you are after the most popular derivative of the Superb Estate, then you are looking at a price tag of around £23,290.

The most efficient engine on offer is the 118bhp 1.6-litre TDI model, emitting just 105g/km (£20 a year to tax) and claiming to return an average of 70.6mpg.

Our Verdict 

It is no great shakes when it comes to driving dynamics, but those after a large family car/business cruiser are unlikely to care too much about that. They are more likely to appreciate the neat ‘Simply Clever’ touches. Also, it has the upmarket feel of a VW, but comes in much cheaper, and running costs are low.

Skoda has perfectly retained all the pros of the Hatch model, of which there are plenty, and yet maximised practicality. What more can you ask for?