Skoda NZ is starting the year with not only a new Kodiaq, but also a new generation of Superb. It’s only available here in wagon guise, which is as it should be. And it’s a bit of a stealth machine this, looking rather discreet but with a reasonable amount of dash.
Superb is described as critical to Skoda NZ’s business, and the firm is committed to the NZ Police with the arrival of the new model. However, it is in the middle of the tendering process for that business at the moment, so there is nothing else to add there just yet.
This is the fourth generation Superb, Skoda developing the big car platform for VW that also uses this for its Passat. That’s a model that is no longer available here, so Superb has few rivals, if any. Can’t really think of any, except maybe the Subaru Outback, though that is more of a crossover type. The Superb is a road-bound wagon, but one with AWD at least.
Read more New Skoda Kodiaq arrives in NZ
There will be one powertrain option, the 2.0-litre TFSI engine rustling up 195kW and 400Nm of torque and running via a seven-speed twin-clutch. It’s a decent performer too, 0-100 said to take 5.7sec, while it’s okay on gas for a big wagon (8.2L/100km, 186g/km). Skoda NZ isn’t bringing in the plug-in hybrid if you’re wondering, there just isn’t the demand for it. The latest one sounds pretty good with up to 100km of electric range and is DC fast charge capable. But they say it also comes lumped with a premium.
Initially there is just the TSI model, priced at $74,990, while a racier looking Sportline version is slated to arrive later (think sporty black detailing, riding a little lower on standard fit adaptive dampers and with the new generation of Matrix LED headlights).
They have managed to squeeze a little more space into the Superb, not that it really needed any more. While the wheelbase is unchanged, there is more headroom in the rear and 30L more luggage space, now out to 690L, expanding to 1920. It can also tow up to 2200kg if you need it to.
It’s well kitted out with many driver assist safety features, powered tailgate, advanced keyless locking, rear camera (no 360 degree function but) three zones of A/C and plenty of ‘Simply Clever’ novelty items (yes, there’s an umbrella in the door still).
The seat is worth mentioning too, super comfy with all manner of adjustment, a decent lumber pump, heating and ventilation and a massage function. Perforated leather trim makes the grade as does a big 13-inch touchscreen complete with Hi Laura voice control. There’s wireless charging and CarPlay (Android Auto too). Like the Kodiaq, the Superb’s gear selector is now positioned on the steering column for ease of use while freeing up lots of space on the centre console.
During a brief introductory drive, the Superb proved a model of comfort and composure. This rides well, quietly too, while it manages to keep itself tidy while being thrown through a few demanding bends. There was a little electronic intervention to stave off the understeer, but otherwise it goes well. Comfort is the key, being refined over bumpy highway roads. The cabin quality impresses, as does the amount of storage everywhere. And there’s loads of space, the rear passengers have oodles of room. And then there’s that massive boot. It looks fairly conservative, but that’s how it has always been.
Those looking for something racier, the Octavia RS wagon has been facelifted. Along with a new frontend look, it gets an electrohydraulic front diff to help ground the power of the 195kW/370Nm ‘Evo 4’ 2.0-litre engine. It gets a seven-speed twin-clutch and adaptive dampers for the RS sports suspension that sits it 15mm lower. The RS also gains new generation matrix lights along with other spec upgrades such as walk away locking, 19-inch alloys, a fast charger pad and the new 13-inch infotainment screen. It starts at $67,990 with manually-adjusted fabric seats and factory sounds, while the RS+ is $73,990 with extras like leather, power-operated seats with massage function and upgraded Canton audio.
