Rags to riches story for Skoda

The final chapter of the triumphant rise from rags to riches has been written with the arrival of the new ŠKODA Superb this week.

No other car brand in the history of motoring has come so far in recent years and the book is now closed as far as derisory comments and pathetic slagging is concerned forever.

This new car is more outstanding than ever and with its renowned space thrown in, Skoda is on to a winner in every way. Take it from me, there are premium cars that are made look quite ordinary by what ŠKODA have on offer here. A

nyone in the market for a D-Segment car should and must take the Superb into account and those who have been scornful in the past about the Czech brand should pack their bags and head in to the sunset. And, even better, the Combi version will be here in September.

Being a product of the Volkswagen group, the Superb has taken many of the positive traits from the German giant. However, there is something going on here that make this car more likened to the Audi badge.

The shape, styling and the stance is really handsome. The lines have been straightened and the whole package has a sleeker look than before.

From the front view alone you can see the difference. The grille defines the look and the front lights extend the image giving it a wider, more graceful posture.

Inside the detailing is classic and the levels of equipment, especially in the Style and Laurin&Klement (L&K) versions form a long list.

Five new petrol and three TDI common-rail diesel engines have been added. The volume seller in Ireland is expected to be the new 1.6 TDI 120bhp, that boasts 14% more power and 13% improved fuel economy when compared with the outgoing unit.

They promise a 15% improvement in fuel economy on two new 2.0 TDI units that have been introduced with 150bhp and 190bhp. New transmissions have also been introduced including a new 7-speed DSG for the smaller diesel derivative and 6-speed DSG that can also be combined with 4×4 transmissions if one desires.

A high performance 2.0 TSI, 4×4 with 6-speed DSG replaces the normally aspirated 3.6, V6 that was offered previously.

There are three specifications from launch; Active, Ambition and Style. The L&K model has also been added to the mix which includes a host of additional equipment such as 19” alloy wheels, Canton sound system and adaptive suspension as well as numerous L&K design elements.

Prices for this specification start from €39,745. Diesel entry prices start from €27,795 with standard equipment including Dual Zone Climate Control, 7-Airbags, Bluetooth, Front Assist, Electric Handbrake with Auto Hold. The Ambition model receives Colour Touch Screen Sound System, Bi-Xenon Lights with front and rear LEDs, 16” Alloy Wheels, Front Heated Seats and Rain Sensing Wipers. The top Style model receives Columbus Sat Nav unit, 3 Zone Climate Control, 17” Alloys, Full Leather interior and Reversing Camera.

“The new Superb is arriving just in time for the 152 plate,” said John Donegan, Brand Director at ŠKODA Ireland.

“The car is exceptional in every way and really needs to be test-driven to be appreciated. The car is 75kg lighter than the previous version and when combined with improved aerodynamics ensures the new Superb has superior acceleration, fuel efficiency and emissions than the outgoing car.”

After a brief drive in the car this week it is clear that ŠKODA has a car that gives you an enormous amount of driving pleasure too. Although it is big in size, the feedback, road holding and cornering give you the feeling of a more compact vehicle.

That makes it a joy to drive and with its unmatched passenger space and gigantic boot space it surpasses anything else in the market at this level. For me, the new ŠKODA Superb now moves to pole position in the hunt for the Car of the Year title.