Skoda challenge road test

If there’s one car that has always had an identity crisis, it’s the Skoda Superb. Along with the obvious fun-poking at its name, the large saloon’s size and shape struggled to carve a niche in the UK.

As a result, Skoda has got radical with its replacement. Buoyed by the success of more recent daring designs such as the Roomster, the Superb is ready to break down class barriers. So we’ve come up with a truly unique test to find out how successful the new Czech model really is.

The Superb follows the same formula to its predecessor’s, as it offers plenty of space-per-pound. As a result, it doesn’t fit into a defined sector, as it mixes family car value with executive class space and mile-munching comfort. We’ve devised a series of challenges to find out whether it’s a worthwhile alternative to three very different, but similarly priced machines.

First up is our family car favourite, the Ford Mondeo. With the help of its unique dual hatchback/saloon tailgate, the Skoda is aiming high for practicality, but will it be able to topple the blue oval favourite?

Thanks to its quality and space, the Superb also has premium pretentions, so we have also pitched the SE trim Superb against an entry-level Audi A4. They use the same 2.0-litre TDI engine, but can the Superb really be as desirable?

The final pairing could be the Skoda’s toughest challenge. Anyone shelling out nearly £20,000 for a factory-fresh Superb will be overlooking some talented nearly new competition. Does the Czech make more sense than a used BMW 5-Series? Read on to find out.

Verdict

As well as being built to a high standard, the Superb is refined, generously equipped and good to drive. It has limousine-style legroom in the back and, far from a gimmick, the twin-opening boot is very useful. Add the bargain price, along with Skoda dealers’ good reputation for customer care, and the Superb is a revelation.