Just a few weeks after launching the Superb Hatch model on UK shores, Skoda has treated us to a drive of its new Superb Estate model.
With estate variants of hatchbacks or saloons, naturally the burning question is always, “how does it differ to the model it is based on.” And, as estates are aimed at offering added practicality, the key talking points of said derivative are most likely going to revolve around… yes you guessed it, practicality.
However, the drive quality of some models can easily fall by the wayside once it is given a capacious, chunky rear-end. With its added storage space and large family car tag, Skoda hopes to challenge the likes of sister brand Volkswagen, and its Passat Estate, as well as uber popular cruisers like the Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer, Ford Mondeo Estate and BMW 3 Series Touring.
Before we delve into ride quality, driving dynamics and interior niceties, let’s talk about some of the crucial facts and figures regarding dimensions and looks.
As it is based on the Hatch model, it adopts the same MQB platform and Vision C-inspired exterior design, meaning it is lighter than its predecessor (up to 75kg) and it’s pretty dashing from almost every angle, thanks to angular lines added to all the right areas. The extended rear-end seamlessly imitates these lines and looks very attractive, too.
The Superb Estate is also 23mm longer and 47mm wider than its predecessor as it stands at 4,856mm long and 1,864mm in width. The wheelbase has been increased too, by 80mm – resulting in added space. Believe it or not, the new Estate is just 5mm longer than the hatch model. How much more space can that possibly result in then?
Well, with the seats in place, the Superb Estate offers 660 litres – that is 27 litres bigger than the previous model and 35 litres bigger than the Hatch’s boot. But, it really shines when you fold the rear seats down. With 1,950 litres to play around with, the new Estate offers class-leading storage space - 190 litres bigger than the Hatch and 170 litres bigger than the Volkswagen Passat Estate.
Also worth mentioning is the easy release lever to fold the seats, located in the boot, which is simple but clever. Speaking of simple and clever, the Estate gets Skoda’s usual array of ‘Simply Clever’ gadgets and features, 31 of them in fact, a new record for the brand. These include umbrellas located in the front doors, Velcro organisers for your luggage, a magnetic torch, foot-activated boot opening and cup holders that allow you to open a bottle with one hand. There is also a removable floor in the boot, allowing you to hide valuables and, if need be, store the retractable boot cover.
We tested the 2.0-litre 148bhp TDI mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and, as is the case with the Hatch model, this is expected to be the best-seller. After driving the other diesels on offer, with power ranging from 118bhp to 187bhp, it is clear to see why the 148bhp is expected to be the pick of the bunch. It offers just enough pull to fill you with confidence when overtaking, but it’s not overzealous enough to hurt you in the fuel economy department. Ultimately, this translates to a zero to 62mph of 8.9 seconds, a claimed average of 68.9mpg and CO2 of 109g/km – just 1g more than its Hatch equivalent.
The six-speed manual gearbox in the Superb is indeed, superb. It is direct and yet smooth enough to give each gear change an effortless feel.
Comfort and refinement remain the highlights rather than engagement with the Superb Estate. Grip is reassuring in the corners, body roll is minimal (even with the bigger behind) and feedback is admirable through the steering wheel, certainly better than fleet favourites like the Vauxhall Insignia Tourer. But it is still not in the same ballpark as the BMW badge when it comes to fun.
Its incredibly supple suspension and refined cabin make the Superb a class leader for travelling in peace and quiet. The likes of the Laurin and Klement trim go hand-in-hand with this as it offers an array of reassuring safety kit like Blind Spot Detection, Lane Keep Assist and Park Assist. The L & K trim also adds Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), bringing with it variable driving modes like Sport (weightier) and Comfort (lighter), but this is no great shakes, with the characteristics of either driving mode feeling rather artificial.
The Superb Estate is everything you could hope for – that is of course providing that you enjoy the Superb Hatch. It mimics all the pros of the hatch model and gives you added practicality, which if you are looking at an estate is most likely going to be your prerogative.
Orders for the new Superb Estate open in July, with first deliveries expected in September.
