Review
Skoda Superb Combi 280 hp
Skoda has been offering a station wagon version of its flagship, the Superb, since 2009. More than 200,000 units have now been sold worldwide, which represents approximately 35% of total Superb sales. We were curious about the 280 hp top version and did a test drive with the new Skoda Superb Combi.
Top model with 280 hp
The new Skoda Superb Combi is available with 5 petrol engines with a power between 125 hp and 280 hp and with three diesel engines with a power between 120 hp and 190 hp. We went out with the top model with a power of 280 hp. This has a turbo TSI petrol engine with a capacity of 1,984 cc and 4 cylinders. This is only available in combination with a six-speed DSG automatic gearbox and permanent all-wheel drive (4×4). In normal driving conditions and with a light load, power goes mainly to the front axle. The rear wheels are engaged when necessary to make loss of grip virtually impossible. This block is to replace the 3.6 FSI V6 with 260 hp. A fine example of downsizing. This Superb goes from 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. The basic price for a Skoda Superb Combi Ambition with 280 hp is 39,820 euros.
Comfortable and spacious
Space and comfort have always been important for the Superb Combi. The latest generation has also been further developed on these points, among other things. Compared to the previous model, the Superb has become more spacious, both front and rear. The trunk space also increased in volume with a capacity of over 660 liters.
The new Superb also offers numerous options in terms of comfort. There is Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) with Driving Mode Select. You can also optionally opt for an electric panoramic glass roof and there is also a completely new air conditioning with climate control in 3 zones. You can also close the suitcase electronically with a button or open it by moving your foot under the rear bumper. For the first time you can now also get a reversing camera on this model and an electronic parking brake is standard. Personally, we thought the Lane Assist function was one of the better ones we have experienced so far. The car picks up the lines of the road very quickly and the steering is also firm.
For the first time, you can also pair the Superb with a smartphone and use a number of apps via the infotainment system screen. You can use the Skoda Media Command app to operate the infotainment system from the back seat with an iPad.
Driver assistance systems
The new Skoda Superb Combi is available with numerous driver assistance systems that are standard or optional. For example, ESC with anti-multi-crash function is standard. This system will ensure that the car comes to a standstill after an accident and does not continue to move. In this way, a possible second accident can be avoided. The Superb is also available with Front Assist. This system will warn the driver when an accident is about to occur. If necessary, it will also brake the car to limit the consequences of a collision. Quite a few accidents happen where the driver falls asleep. With driver alert, the system monitors the driver’s driving behavior and, if necessary, can remind the driver to rest. New for the combination is the Blind Spot Detect system. This system will indicate any vehicles in the blind spot when the driver wants to change lanes.
Conclusion
The new Superb Combi looks beautiful from the outside and is beautifully finished on the inside. It keeps up with the times and has numerous innovative driver assistance systems. The Lane Assist function is even one of the best variants of this system that we have already tested. With its 280 hp, the top version of the Superb Combi moves smoothly, but the sound is perhaps not the most exciting we have heard.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
