Best for: Daily driving
Big, traditional and offering a choice of petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains, the Skoda Superb is a prime example of how Skoda can use Volkswagen Group’s hardware and software and tweak them to create a truly likeable, accessible and more usable car.
The fourth-generation model majors on practicality, versatility, comfort and ease of use, much like its predecessor, only this time there’s even more space inside and greater efficiency from its engines.
It rides on the same MQB Evo platform as the Volkswagen Passat, hence it offers the same 690 litres of boot space – or 1920 litres with the 60/40-split rear seats folded flat. Boot space drops to 510 litres in the plug-in hybrid version, with its huge 25.7kWh battery stored under the boot floor.
We can’t fault the Superb’s PHEV credentials, though, as it promises a company car tax-friendly electric-only range of 84 miles. Impressive stuff.
There’s the usual mix of petrol and diesel engines, with the latter being tipped to be a big seller here, after the PHEV and 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol. The diesel is quiet, hard-working and has the potential for good fuel economy.
The Superb isn’t particularly sporty or overtly comfortable, but it neatly balances the two. The long body is kept well in check and the steering builds weight as you load up the suspension in a corner, giving you plenty of confidence in the car’s roadholding.