Skoda Superb Greenline II

Text: Ross Pinnock / Photos: Otis Clay

June 2011

• Rating:
• Latest deal price: from £14,911 to £25,991

Can the best get even better? The class-leading Skoda Superb is aiming to do exactly that, as it now comes in ultra-efficient new GreenLine II form. The 1.6-litre diesel, eco tyres and stop-start make this the cleanest version yet, emitting 114g/km of CO2.

You’ll do well to spot it, though, as visual changes are minimal. Badges on the grille, tailgate and wing are the main clues to its low tax status, along with 16-inch alloys. Hatches get a rear spoiler to help reduce drag, but the smart estate is unchanged at the back.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Superb Estate

Cabin differences are restricted to a five-speed manual box and a button on the gearlever to switch the stop-start on and off. S, SE and Elegance trims mirror the usual line-up’s, so there are no major concessions to the GreenLine’s environmental focus.

This compromise-free approach extends to the drive. With only 104bhp, the Superb is never going be a great performer, but it easily keeps up with traffic. Only if you let the revs drop, or load up the cabin, does it feel slow.

Yet while you have to work it hard to maintain brisk pace, the light gearshift and smooth engine are surprisingly enjoyable. And the changes haven’t affected the Superb’s sharp handling.

Well weighted steering and tidy body control deliver agile handling for such a big machine. The 15mm-lower suspension doesn’t compromise comfort too heavily, either, and motorway refinement is excellent.

The GreenLine II ranges from £18,685 for the base hatch to £24,040 for the flagship estate, and these competitive prices combine with an attractive tax banding to ensure success with business users.

Private buyers will like the 64.2mpg economy, too, so the Superb holds more appeal now than ever before.