Review
Size is set to play a big part in a fresh bid to win major-player recognition for Skoda in the fleet market.
But quality and value will be crucial extra factors in efforts aimed at helping the Czech brand make a bigger impact in the sector over the next few months.
With seven-league boot space of 633 litres stretching to a remarkable potential cargo area of 1,865 litres, the new Superb estate outclasses
all rivals with ease to be king of the load carriers.
And there’s no denying the model tasked with getting Skoda on to more choice lists also ticks all the boxes that reflect manufacturing quality and value for money.
Pitched to be fiercely competitive in specification as well as price, the jumbo workhorse model drives home the message that the badge deserves to be considered alongside mainstream brands.
Boasting as much space for occupants as it does for cargo, the car offers stretching room for five in luxury while subtle, conservative styling promotes a discreet kerbside appearance. Inside, the dashboard layout, switchgear, trim and detailing show more than a hint of premium-grade travel.
Skoda’s fifth model range comes with the choice of three petrol engines in 1.4, 1.8 and 3.6-litre capacities and 1.9-litre and 2.0-litre diesels. Fleets are expected to opt for the latter heavy-oil unit in 140bhp or 170bhp forms.
On test, the higher-output version impressed as a relaxed, long distance touring car with lots of torque at low revs providing robust performance for overtaking manoeuvres and a high sixth gear allowing a cruising gait to make light work of motorway mile-munching.
A well-honed chassis gives taut control through corners and the suspension system underlines the flagship model’s air of refinement by providing relatively smooth progress over potholed roads.
Lavish equipment, including dual-zone climate control, touchscreen satellite navigation and powered and heated front seats, add to the ambience and soft leather upholstery offers club class comfort.
Around 1,500 examples are expected to help Skoda achieve 16,000 registrations for a 2% fleet share this year.
"Feedback has been fantastic and we have really high hopes that this will be the car that allows us to break into mainstream consideration with user-choosers and company car drivers," said fleet director Martin Burke.
"Added to the Octavia hatch and estate, the Superb range gives us a line-up of good quality, fit for purpose products. We are now balanced between mainstream and premium with cars that offer terrific value."
Verdict:
Attractive styling, premium quality and great versatility make the Superb estate an unbeatable proposition priced from £17,715 for fleets looking for space and comfort.
