Å koda Superb

The Škoda Superb is an executive car built by the Czech car manufacturer Škoda Auto. It is based on the platform of the Volkswagen Passat (but was elongated by Template:Convert) and shares its mechanicals with that model. It is currently the largest and most luxurious model in Škoda's lineup. The Superb name is a resurrection, originally used by Skoda for a similarly large 1936 model.

First generation (2001-2007)

Characteristics

The Superb is available with several petrol and diesel engines. The base model, the Classic, is available with a 1.9 L TDI turbodiesel rated at 74 kW, or a 2.0 L I4 engine rated at 85 kW. The Comfort and Elegance models are offered with a with either a 142 kW V6 2.8 L petrol engine, or a 2.5 L TDI rated at 120 kW. Transmissions available are a six-speed manual or five-speed tiptronic. As well as offering Volkswagen's older 1.9 L PD engine, the Superb also uses the new 100 kW 2.0 L TDIs found in other cars of the Volkswagen Group.

The Superb was facelifted in 2006 to incorporate Skoda's new grille, headlights and tail lights. A Laurin and Klement model became the top of the range, deposing the Elegance model from that position. A range of new engines was introduced and the interior featured real wood as part of some trim levels. Akin to the Rolls-Royce Phantom some higher spec models even have an umbrella secreted in the rear door panel.

Although the Passat upon which it is based competes with the likes of the Ford Mondeo and Peugeot 407, the Superb is marketed as an alternative to the more prestigious likes of the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, though it is actually cheaper than the Passat.

The Superb got minor facelift in August 2006 - a new radiator grille, additional blinkers have been integrated into the vehicle's wing mirrors, the tail lights were C-shaped in style of Roomster and Octavia and interior was redesigned.

Second generation (2008-present)

A replacement is expected in March 2008.

External links

• Škoda Superb official website