With the new Superb lift-back due later this month, Skoda continues its momentum with the new estate version of its flagship vehicle.
Just like the lift-back, Skoda says the new Superb Combi (estate ) reaches high levels of creativity, design and spaciousness. It will debut here in Ireland on September 22 with entry-level pricing from €28,995.
The Combi has been extremely popular in Ireland, accounting for 34 per cent of total Superb sales. Class-leading space provides high levels of comfort, one of the Superb Combi’s core and original strengths. Skoda claims these virtues have been developed even further through the use of clever design and increased dimensions.
The MQB platform has enabled a longer wheelbase and wider track, equating to more effective use of interior dimensions and layout. The result is 39mm more elbow room for driver and front seat passengers. Skoda says the space in the rear remains limousine like, (legroom of 157mm ) almost doubling that of its nearest competitor, and that the headroom is also unrivalled in the segment, with 995mm for the front seat passenger and 1,001mm in the rear. The boot capacity has also increased by 27 litres, to a class leading 660 litres.
The new engine technology and up to 75kg of weight reduction combined with improved aerodynamics has delivered improvements of up to 30 per cent on emissions and consumption values. Skoda claims the most frugal Superb Combi 1.6 TDI 120bhp consumes just 4.1 l/100 km (69 mpg ) and emits 109 g/km of CO2.
The new Superb Combi has modern, direct-injection turbo engines based on MQB technology (five TSI petrol, three TDI common-rail diesels ). All powertrains meet the EU6 emission standards and come with stop-start technology and brake energy recovery as standard. The petrol engines produce between 125bhp and 280bhp. The power output of the diesel engines range from 120bhp from the 1.6 TDI unit up to 190bhp from the 2.0 TDI.
All Superb Combi versions are available with the latest six-speed manual transmissions. For fans of automatic transmissions, the Superb Combi is available with the latest dual-clutch (DSG ) transmissions, with the 1.6 TDI benefiting from a seven-speed system. The Superb is one of the few vehicles in its class to offer 4x4 alternatives, with both the 2.0 TDI 150bhp and 190bhp versions available with all-wheel drive based on the latest Haldex 5 clutch.
With an array of new comfort solutions, Skoda says the new Superb Combi fulfils the highest standards. Highlights include the new dynamic chassis control, including driving mode select. A new three-zone air conditioning system ensures an optimal temperature and the best air quality in the rear of the cabin. The previous Superb was famed for its umbrella feature located in the rear passenger door; this time around Skoda has two umbrellas provided and now located in the front doors. A rear view camera is used for the first time in the Superb and the classic manual handbrake has been replaced with a new electric handbrake.
Mobile technology and smart phones are fully compatible with the new Bolero and Columbus infotainment systems in the new Superb Combi. Android and Apple IOS are both supported via Smart Link enabling use of navigation and entertainment applications.
In terms of safety, the Superb Combi features the latest electronic stability gadgetry, including multi-collision braking, front assist with city emergency brake, electronic tyre pressure monitoring, and seven airbags, all as standard. In addition, innovative optional assistance systems are available such as sdaptive cruise control to keep the Superb Combi at a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
John Donegan, brand director of Skoda, says the Superb Combi has been a hugely successful car for the brand.
"We expect the new model to reach even greater heights. Already we are receiving numerous enquiries from the fleet market and, not surprisingly, customers from premium brands. There is significant demand from all over Europe for this vehicle with demand expected to outstrip supply, so early viewing is advised.”
