WHY IT WON
FEW cars are as aptly named as the Skoda Superb. With its compelling blend of space, refinement, composed driving dynamics and low running costs, the Czech machine makes a formidably good family car choice all round.
However, it’s the sharp styling and premium-feeling cabin of the latest thirdgeneration model that’s helped elevate the Superb above its talented and desirable rivals.
Crisp, defined lines and neat detailing give the Skoda real street presence, while inside, the mix of high-grade materials and robust build is more than a match for more expensive German cars.
However, it’s not the Superb’s flawless finish or its extremely generous list of standard equipment that gives the interior a real sense of luxury – it’s the space.
Climb aboard the Skoda and you’ll find there’s not much this side of a limousine that’s as roomy. Occupants in the back can stretch out with room to spare, while the vast hatchback opens to reveal a 625litre boot. There are classy touches, too, such as the umbrellas hidden in each front door armrest – the only other car you’ll find that feature in is a Rolls-royce.
On the move, the big Skoda impresses with its assured handling, supple ride and quiet cruising. There’s also a wide range of petrol and diesel engines to choose from, but the pick of the bunch is the gutsy and refined 2.0-litre diesel that combines a healthy 148bhp output with CO2 emissions of just 108g/km.
If you want something a little more exciting, then the 276bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre combines a blistering 0-62mph figure of 5.8 seconds with the all-weather confidence of four-wheel drive.
Regardless of which model you go for, you’ll be treated to the same wide array of cutting-edge kit. Look across the range and you’ll find desirable additions such as adaptive dampers and radar cruise control, plus a whole suite of reassuring safety systems.
However, Skoda hasn’t forgotten its valuefor-money roots, so the Superb can undercut its major rivals by thousands of pounds. On this evidence, it’s going to take something really special to topple the Skoda in 2017.