Skoda Superb estate vs Vauxhall Insignia Sports tourer

Once upon a time, estate cars were mere workhorses that put luggage capacity ahead of image. But modern-day carriers need to be as stylish as their saloon stablemates, without compromising practicality. Buyers also demand agile handling and lots of comfort.

The Skoda Superb is an excellent machine, with an ingenious Twindoor boot system that allows it to function as both a saloon or hatch. But it’s no substitute for a real estate, which is why the Czech firm has now devised a dedicated carrier based on its award-winning family model.

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

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It combines incredible interior space and quality with capable handling and impressive comfort. Competition comes from Vauxhall’s Insignia Sports Tourer – our current estate car favourite.

Here, we test it in Exclusiv trim with ecoFLEX mechanicals. Featuring a turbodiesel engine, long gearing and aerodynamic tweaks, it promises to be kinder to the environment and reduce running costs.

So can Skoda’s new challenger really dethrone the champion?

Verdict

These two cars are incredibly well matched on paper. Whether you’re interested in price, power or pace, there’s not a lot between them. But once you put down the spec sheets the real differences begin to emerge – and there can only be one winner.

The Vauxhall is the more efficient choice and has lower emissions, but its eco credentials come at the expense of driveability. Its long-ratio gearbox means it’s relaxed on motorways, yet frustrating elsewhere. The Insignia looks great inside and out, but its cabin can’t match the quality, space or kit of its rival. And while the chassis is capable, it lacks feedback.

In contrast, the Superb is a big car that handles with impressive agility. It costs more than the Vauxhall, but its huge cabin, versatile load area, classy interior and flexible engine put it ahead of its rival.

1st - Skoda Superb estate
With a classy but cavernous interior, subtle styling and loads of standard kit, the Superb doesn’t put a foot wrong. But its abilities run  even deeper, as it’s also fun to drive thanks to a punchy diesel engine and controlled handling. Strong residual values boost its long-term credentials, too.

2nd - Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer
IN ecoFLEX trim there’s no denying the efficiency of the Insignia, but its extra-long gearing is actually a weakness as it highlights the lack of mid-range punch. While running costs are competitive, it can’t match the Skoda for practicality or as an ownership prospect.