The ŠKODA Superb has been winning the motoring public over since its debut thanks to its outstanding exterior design and excellent performance. ŠKODA’s top-of-the-range model has won numerous comparison tests and awards, and not merely by merit of its well-known exceptional value for money. Its prestige is proven by its Golden Steering Wheel award and the title of "Best Midsize Car" in Germany and Austria. In the Czech Republic, it was the undisputed winner of "Car of the Year 2009". The new Superb is also a leader in terms of safety, technology and performance. The short stopping distance and top marks in the Euro NCAP crash test underline the Superb’s high-tech nature.
By introducing the estate version, derived from ŠKODA’s flagship, significantly increased the attractiveness of this model series. With record-breaking 1,865-litre luggage capacity and a wide array of well thought-out design and functional solutions, the Superb Combi has rounded off the brand’s offerings in this segment and fortified ŠKODA’s position in markets worldwide. Like the ŠKODA model lines, the Superb and Superb Combi are available in an ecological GreenLine version. The GreenLine versions of both the five-door sedan and the estate have become benchmarks of efficiency in their class. The Superb Combi has received numerous distinguished accolades awarded by magazines and automobile clubs for its efficiency.
Carefully prepared added value: the 2012 model year
The aim of the work on the 2012 models of both Superb bodies has been to enhance the attractiveness of their design and comfort. The new Laurel (17”) and Luxon (18”) alloy wheels, designed specifically for the Superb, have played a part in the car’s visual revival. The elegance of the vehicle is underscored by the new metallic Malachite Green and Lava Blue.
In the interior, the new optional ventilated front seats will provide maximum comfort. This exemplary level of comfort is sure to be appreciated during the hot summer months by owners of either body version, regardless of whether they are travelling for miles or just down the road. The optional dual sun visors for the driver and front passenger allow for even better protection against glare.
During long trips, rear passengers can enjoy themselves thanks to the optional DVD player preparation with two screens on the backs of the front seats. In addition, from the 2012 model year, the upgraded Amundsen+ navigation system with factory-installed maps will be available for the Superb. Customers will be able to take their pick of two versions of maps: Eastern and Central Europe or Western and Central Europe. The navigation device also features a CD player and radio, which can optionally be complemented with digital DAB radio reception and a Bluetooth module for handsfree phoning while driving.
Great utility value, dynamic elegance: design
The ŠKODA design philosophy has made the Superb a very elegant car. The distinct three-dimensional form of the front grille and its finely modelled chrome trim give the front end visual depth and a solid look. The contoured lines of the bonnet extend to the headlamps, intensifying their breadth and giving the Superb a wider, more stable appearance. Even from the outside, the roofline of the five-door sedan clearly hints at the exceptional interior spaciousness, especially in terms of leg room for rear passengers. The harmoniously elongated and gently sloping roofline of the estate evokes the silhouette of a coupé without compromising headroom.
Both models’ tail lamps remain true to the ŠKODA design. In daylight, their refined form is appealing; in the dark, they form a typical C-shaped light. Both body styles feature alloy wheels up to 18 inches in diameter, further enhancing the Superb’s dynamic and elegant impression.
Quality to the smallest detail: the interior
The ŠKODA Superb is 4,828 millimetres long, 1,817 millimetres wide and 1,462 millimetres high. The Combi is the same length and width but is 48 millimetres taller due to its standard, longitudinal roof rails, which are available in silver or black. The passenger compartment is more than generous in both body versions and, with its finely tuned mix of materials and excellent workmanship, satisfies the needs of all customers. The dashboard carefully groups all control instruments into individual functional units. All of the primary functions are concentrated around the steering wheel and quick access is guaranteed thanks to their logical placement. Depending on the trim level chosen, the steering wheel includes multifunction buttons to control the audio system, the MFA (multifunction indicator) and a mobile phone.
The optional sports package includes sports pedals, a sporty chassis, a three-spoke steering wheel, the “small leather package” and a tailgate spoiler (on the liftback). The sports package is available for the 1.8 TSI/118 kW, 2.0 TDI/147 kW, 2.0 TDI CR DPF/103 kW, 2.0 TDI CR DPF/125 kW with front wheel drive and for the top-notch 3.6 FSI V6/191 kW with four-wheel drive.
Variable tailgate opening concept: TwinDoor
The Superb’s balanced proportions, timeless elegance and stylish lines incorporate a feature that will become a benchmark in the automotive world. Although most vehicles in this sector retain a traditional sedan concept, the Superb’s tail section hides a tailgate that offers almost unlimited luggage compartment options. The unique, patented TwinDoor variable boot opening, designed by ŠKODA engineers for the sedan, offers a practical and functional solution. The driver can choose to open just the boot lid (to load smaller items) or the entire tailgate at the press of a button. Two small switches on the edge of the boot lid activate an electro-mechanical release which lifts the boot lid and the rear window together by means of an easy-to-use mechanism. Thanks to the TwinDoor, even bulky items can be loaded easily into this official looking car by almost doubling the boot opening. The third brake light under the rear window flashes to indicate that electric motors have locked the closing mechanism of both tailgate parts. With the rear seat backs in an upright position, the boot can accommodate 595 litres of luggage. With the rear seats folded, the volume increases to 1,700 litres.
The Superb Combi also features some convenient innovations, such as an electrically and remotely operated tailgate and automatic luggage cover release, which can be fitted with an optional feature sliding the cover into the midway position when the tailgate is opened for ease of loading. The Superb Combi’s maximum luggage compartment volume is 1,865 litres.
Safe driving: the chassis
The MacPherson front axle with triangular wishbone on both the ŠKODA Superb and the Superb Combi is located in a rigid aluminium axle housing to provide optimal movement while reducing axle weight. The rear axle is attached to the body by special silent block mounts. This increases driving comfort and reduces tyre noise. Careful tuning and noise absorption make the Superb among the quietest cars in its class. Due to its greater permitted rear axle load, the Superb Combi uses a modified and optimized version of the Superb’s rear suspension.
When tuning the chassis, ŠKODA engineers placed a special emphasis on creating a balanced relationship between agility and comfort. As such, the Superb tackles uneven road surfaces supremely, while body roll is almost completely suppressed by careful chassis calibration. The new electro-mechanical steering ensures great driving dynamics, its response optimized in accordance with the specific requirements of individual engines. The vehicle’s cornering remains agile, guaranteeing outstanding stability coupled with acute sensitivity to the current wheel traction conditions.
Adaptive lighting: AFS for the Superb
An excellent view of the road is ensured by the AFS (Adaptive Frontlight System). AFS adapts front road illumination to current conditions, improving visibility and enabling the driver to recognize obstacles in the road sooner and react more quickly.
No compromises on and off the road: safety
The Superb’s passenger protection is extremely high, as demonstrated by Euro NCAP crash tests. The Superb achieved top marks in simulations of side impact and impact against a post, scoring 35 points for the protection of adults and 40 for children and earning five stars, the highest possible number.
The excellent crash test results can be attributed to the sophisticated body design. A combination of hot-formed high-strength sheet metal and normal steel with increased ductile strength is used in the chassis and in the A and B pillars, with the energy absorption design ensuring a predetermined course of deceleration and sufficient space for passenger survival in a head-on crash or side collision.
Up to nine airbags are available on the Superb, depending on the vehicle specification and version. Two front and two side airbags combined with front and rear head airbags provide comprehensive protection. The driver knee airbag and side airbags in the rear further improve the effectiveness of the restraint systems. The Superb does everything to make sure that, even in serious accidents, the risk of injury is minimized. The pyrotechnic belt tensioners and belt force limiters also help reduce injury in the event of a collision.
A number of systems are in place to help prevent an accident occurring in the first place. Anti-slip regulation (ASR) is standard in all versions of the Superb, while ESP is part of the standard equipment in many markets. Pedestrian protection is in place to significantly reduce the risk of injury to weaker road users. The hill start assist prevents the car from rolling backwards when the brake is released.
State-of-the-art technology under the bonnet: the engine range
The Superb’s broad range of engines can meet all the very different needs and requirements that customers may have. Four petrol and three diesel engines are available.
The GreenLine’s low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are achieved by means of an efficient diesel engine (1.6 TDI CR DPF/77 kW) and five-speed manual gearbox. This engine, in both the sedan and the hatchback, runs on just 4.4 litres per 100 km. As with ŠKODA’s other GreenLine models, a Start-Stop system helps reduce consumption especially in urban traffic. The recommended gear function indicates the optimal moment to change gears and keep the engine running at the right speed for economical driving performance. Brake energy regeneration, low rolling resistance tyres and the aerodynamic body profile also save fuel to make the Superb GreenLine one of the most efficient mid-range models.
The entry level diesel engine is the 1.6 TDI CR DPF, an economically priced, but powerful introduction to the Superb range. The four-cylinder 77 kW (105 bhp) engine reaches its torque peak of 250 Nm at between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. Averaging combined fuel consumption of five litres per 100 km, it is economical to run, and with CO2 emissions of just 130 grams per kilometre it is environmentally sound. (These data apply to the liftback.)
The new 2.0 TDI CR DPF diesel engine, delivering 103 kW (140 bhp) and torque of 320 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds and has a top speed of 208 km/h. Even so, combined fuel consumption is exceptional at 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres, as are its CO2 emissions of 143 g/km. These figures refer to the Superb with the six-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic DSG transmission is available as an option. In early November, the Superb range will be expanded to include an appealing drive belt combination: a 2.0 TDI CR DPF/103 kW engine, six-speed DSG automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, available for both the ŠKODA Superb and the Superb Combi.
A more powerful version of the 2.0 TDI CR DPF engine, delivering an impressive 125 kW (170 bhp) and maximum torque of 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, will be able meet customers’ most demanding requirements. Consumption is 5.7 litres per 100 km in combined traffic conditions, with CO2 emissions recorded at a mere 149 g/km. (These data apply to the liftback.) A diesel particulate filter is supplied with all versions as standard.
Direct fuel injection is fitted in all petrol engines. Despite its modest dimensions, the four-cylinder 1.4 litre TSI delivers 92 kW (125 bhp) and 200 Nm torque peak between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. Thanks to the downsizing concept, which combines smaller capacity with turbo-charging technology, this engine’s combined fuel consumption is an impressive 6.8 litres per 100 km. Combined CO2 emissions are 157 g/km. (These data apply to the liftback.)
The 118 kW (160 bhp) 1.8 TSI is another petrol engine in the Superb range. It provides peak torque of 250 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm, combined fuel consumption of 7.2 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 169 g/km. (These data apply to the liftback.) As an alternative to the manual six-speed gearbox, it can be also supplied with the automatic seven-speed DSG.
The 2.0 TSI 147 kW petrol engine provides peak torque of 280 Nm between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. It is combined with the six-speed automatic DSG transmission. Its combined consumption is just 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with combined CO2 emissions of 178 g/km. (These data apply to the liftback.)
The Superb’s topmost engine is the 3.6 litre FSI V6, delivering 191 kW (260 bhp) and maximum torque of 350 Nm between 2,500 and 5,000 rpm. Its combined consumption is 10.1 litres per 100 km and combined CO2 emissions are 235 g/km. (These data apply to the liftback.) The 3.6 FSI V6 tackles any driving challenge with ease. This engine is available exclusively with the automated six-speed DSG gearbox and variable four-wheel drive, using the fourth-generation Haldex clutch to electronically control the distribution of its immense power. In normal road conditions, 96% of the power flows to the front axle. However, if the road surface under the individual wheels changes, the Haldex system responds in fractions of a second and delivers torque to the wheels with the most traction. This helps to give safe and reliable progress in all road conditions. The FWD Superb is dependable in all weathers, come rain, wind, shine or snow.
High-quality and extensive: equipment
All Superbs offer a very high standard of equipment for this class. An extensive range of optional equipment is also available. Rain sensors, Bi-Xenon headlamps with AFS, tyre pressure monitoring, brake assist, hill start assist, parking sensors and park assist are just a handful of the features on offer. The parking assistance system employs a set of 4/8 ultrasound sensors to assist the driver during parallel parking.
Like the Superb, the Superb Combi is also equipped with numerous advanced technologies, including the sophisticated KESSY keyless locking and ignition system, allowing drivers to open and lock the door automatically and turn the engine on by pushing the start button without taking the key out of their pocket.
A heated front window, particularly practical in winter conditions, can now be ordered for the Superb and the Superb Combi with the engines 1.8 TSI/118 kW, 2.0 TSI/147 kW, 1.6 TDI CR DPF/77 kW (not available in the GreenLine), 2.0 TDI CR DPF/103 kW, 2.0 TDI CR DPF/125 kW and 3.6 FSI V6/191 kW.
ŠKODA Superb equipment highlights:
· TwinDoor – a multifunctional system for opening the tailgate of the Superb sedan
· Electrically operated tailgate and automatic boot shelf release in the estate
· AFS – Adaptive Frontlight System
· KESSY – keyless locking and ignition system
· Up to 9 airbags, including rear side airbags and driver’s knee airbag
· Exceptional spaciousness up front and, most noticeably, in the back
· Above-average luggage compartment providing space from 595 litres to 1,700 litres (Superb) and from 633 to 1,865 litres (Superb Combi)
· All engines use direct injection for lower consumption and lower exhaust emissions
· Supplied exclusively with a six-speed DSG gearbox (or seven-speed DSG in the case of the 1.8 TSI/118 kW)
· Three-spoke multifunction leather steering wheel with radio (and telephone) paddles and automatic-transmission DSG controls
· Comprehensive standard equipment in all versions includes ASR, four airbags, air conditioning, multifunction display unit (on-board computer), front and rear electrically powered windows, a central locking system with remote control, electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors
· Park Assist
· TSA – Trailer Stability Assist (maximum trailer weight of 2,000 kilograms)
· Electrically-operated panoramic sunroof
· Columbus navigation system with 30 GB hard disk and touch-screen technology
· Four-wheel drive with fourth-generation Haldex clutch (available with the 1.8 TSI, 3.6 FSI V6 and 2.0 TDI CR DPF/125 kW engines)
· Combination of four-wheel drive, six-speed DSG automatic transmission and 2.0 TDI CR DPF/103 kW
