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Skoda Superb Estate 4×4 review: Attractive, spacious business estate

Skoda Superb Estate front dynamic
The bolder new Skoda Superb Estate, now with 4x4

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14 June 2016

Skoda Superb Estate 4×4 SE L Executive 2.0-litre TDi 190PS

What is it?

We try the most powerful diesel version of the Superb estate – now with four-wheel drive security. Is the Skoda Superb Estate 4×4 all the business estate car you need? We hit the road to find out.

What’s hot?

  • It might have been on our roads for almost a year, but just look at it! The Superb estate shows Skoda’s bolder new design direction for the brand, which we like very much. At the back, we like the rear screen, which is more steeply raked, plus that gentle curve to the roofline and the wraparound rear lights which shout Audi Avant rather than Skoda. Our favourite parts of the design are the clamshell-like bonnet, forming the sharp beltline down the side. Then there’s the complicated lower cut out down the side. We’d also recommend the optional signature headlights with their crystal detailing to further make this big Skoda stand out.
  • Move inside and because the Superb is based on VW’s clever MQB structure, which also underpins group cars such as the Golf and A3, the Superb Estate has grown substantially. It is 28mm longer, 47mm wider, 6mm taller and has an 80mm longer wheelbase. Although no more spacious than last time, the limo-like rear legroom is much better than the Mondeo and Passat rivals.
Skoda Superb Estate 4x4
Cockpit of the spacious Skoda Superb
  • Despite looking more stylish than the last Superb Estate, the new car has even more room, with 660 litres of bootspace and according to Skoda is now the class best. This can be extended to an amazing 1950 litres with the rear seat folded.
  • Punchy and powerful best describe this 187bhp version of the proven 2.0-litre TDI engine. It boasts 400Nm of torque and 0-62 acceleration in 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 142mph. All with well-matched standard seven-speed DSG transmission.
  • A Ford Mondeo feels more involving and agile, but the Skoda handles tidily and the four-wheel drive gives welcome added security. Even on the 17-inch alloys, the ride remains impressively refined compared with the opposition.
  • SE-L Executive spec is just one lower than the range-topping L&K. As such, you won’t want for standard kit, with bi-xenon headlights, leather trim, heated seats and sat-nav, all fitted as standard.

What’s not?

  • The seven-speed DSG transmission might be quick-shifting, but even with four-wheel drive it feels a bit slow off the mark and can make manoeuvres hard work.
  • With some more steering feel and better body control, the Superb could challenge the class best – these are the only chinks in the big Skoda’s handling package.
  • It might have all the kit you’re ever going to need, but at £31,995 this Superb is not the cheapest option in this class and the interior is a bit drab even when compared to group rivals.

Verdict on Skoda Superb Estate 4×4 SE L Executive 2.0-litre TDi 190PS:

Previously, if you needed a good large estate, you were limited to just the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat.

What are alternatives?

The only Superb trade-offs are a merely average drive (although adding four-wheel definitely adds more security to the drive) and an interior that although well made and modern, perhaps doesn’t feel as special as it should at this price point. However, we still reckon the Skoda Superb is worth serious consideration.

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The biggest Skoda estate looks sharp, has impressive interior space and is a refined drive. With the added four-wheel drive, it is sure to find favour with business buyers looking for an all-rounder with even more practicality.

Choosing the 188bhp version of the 2.0-litre TDI diesel and four-wheel drive makes a reasonable  business case too, with the low 135g/km emissions and 27% company car tax band.

Skoda Superb Estate 4×4 SE L Executive 2.0-litre TDi 190PS

The Low Down…..

Doors and body style Five-door hatch
Engine/gearbox: Seven-speed automatic
CO2 Emissions: 135g/km
Economy: 55.4mpg
Power/torque: 188bhp/ 400Nm
0-62mph/top speed: 7.6secs/ 143mph
Insurance group: 23

…..and what it costs

P11D Value £ 31,700
Monthly business rental (ex VAT) From £366 (4yrs/60,000 miles)
Road tax (VED) E
Company Car Tax Bands 2016/17 to 2018/19 27%, 29%, 31%
Benefit in kind 2016/17 to 2018/19 £8,559, £9,193, £9,827
Annual/Monthly fuel benefit (20%) £1,199 /£99.92
Annual/Monthly fuel benefit (40%) £2,398 /£199.83
Annual/monthly company car tax (20%) £1,712 /£143
Annual/monthly company car tax (40%) £3,424 /£285
Figures correct at time of posting June 2016
For latest figures Use our company car tax calculator
Skoda Superb Estate 4x4
The roomy Skoda Superb Estate, now with all-wheel drive. Note the more steeply raked rear screen

 

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