Skoda Superb Estate (2010 – 2015) Review
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Skoda Superb Estate (2010 – 2015) At A Glance
Huge interior and load space. More legroom in the back than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Clever touches throughout. Well specified as standard and great value for money.
Visibility at the rear can be a bit restricted. Usual hesitation from DSG auto. Columbus navigation prone to failure.
If you're looking for the newer version, you need our Skoda Superb Estate review.
The Superb Estate is a class act. It's the off-beat alternative to the likes of the Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer and Volvo V70. The big story is that it's big on load space. Whether it's seats up or seats down, there's more room on offer than both the Vauxhall and Volvo. And, for that matter a Toyota Avensis, Ford Mondeo, Mazda 6, Renault Laguna ... almost anything else on sale in fact.
It's more than just a roomy holdall, though, as it's packed with features that not only make life easier, but mark the Superb apart from more household names. That means more legroom in the back than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, an optional electric tailgate that can be set to open at different heights, a self-parking system and even a rechargeable torch with a magnetic back so it can be attached to the car's body if needed. And it remains one of only two cars to offer an umbrella concealed within the door - the other is the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Add to that Volkswagen Group engines and attractive list prices and it's easy to see why the Superb Estate makes sense as a practical and value-packed family car. In fact, it's pretty much faultless.
Reviews for Skoda Superb Estate (2010 – 2015)'s top 3 rivals
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Skoda Superb Estate (2010 – 2015) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.4 TSI to 3.6 V6 4x4
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 22–68 mpg
The range kicks-off with a pathetic-sounding 1.4 TSI, which on the face of it is an incredibly small engine for such a large car. But this is no ordinary 1.4-litre engine: it uses turbocharger technology to deliver 125bhp - the sort of power that you'd normally associate with a 1.8-litre engine. Performance figures are respectable, too, with 0-62mph achieved in 10.6 seconds and onto a top speed of 124mph. But the real benefit of this small turbo engine is lower emissions and better fuel consumption. It emits 159g/km CO2 and is capable of 40.9mpg on the combined cycle.
Most petrol buyers go for the 160bhp 1.8 TSI. It uses similar turbo technology as the 1.4 TSI to strike a balance between brisk performance and low emissions. It knocks the 0-62mph time down to 8.7 seconds and raises the top speed to 124mph, while emitting 171g/km CO2. It's a fine, flexible engine that's as happy around town as it is on the open road. Thanks to the turbo, there's plenty of 'ooomph' for effortless overtaking.
Theoretically there's a 3.6-litre V6 at the top of the range, but just a handful are sold in the UK each year, making it a novelty on the used market. The majority of buyers plump for one of the diesels. There's an entry-level 1.9 TDI with 105bhp, but it's quite an old engine and relatively unrefined compared to the alternative 2.0-litre TDI CR (common rail) with a Diesel Particulate Filter, which is available with 140bhp or 170bhp. In manual 140bhp form, this engine will return 51.4mpg (which is more than the 48.7 on offer from the 1.9-litre TDI) and get from 0-62mph in 10.2 seconds.
The best of the bunch is the 170bhp version, which is well suited to the Superb's not insubstantial size. It offers exactly what you'd expect from a common rail diesel - it's refined, hushed and laid-back on motorways. This is also the engine that's best-suited for towing, too, with a braked towing weight of up to 2,000kg on offer.
The excellent DSG automatic gearbox is available as an option on the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI CR (both 140bhp and 170bhp versions) and standard on the 3.6 V6. It works by using two clutches and pre-selecting your next gear for ultra-quick changes. Four-wheel drive is optional on the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI 170, while the V6 petrol gets it as standard.
Although best suited to the motorway, where it's an outstanding cruiser, the Superb Estate isn't out of its depth on the open road. The steering is good, bodyroll is kept in check and grip is good on most road surfaces. In town, you'd expect Superb's size to be an issue (it is more than five metres long after all), but this isn't the case, even when you're parking.
It's true that rear visibility could be better, but effective parking sensors partly make up for it and do a good job of guiding the Superb Estate into spaces. Alternatively, there's the option of Park Assist, which will park the car for you. It uses sensors to locate a suitable parking space and will then do all the tricky bits itself. All the driver has to do is control the speed with the accelerator, as all the steering inputs are made by the car.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 TSI | 41–46 mpg | 10.6 s | 142–159 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI | 54–61 mpg | 12.2–12.6 s | 119–133 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI Greenline | 64–66 mpg | 12.3–12.6 s | 113–114 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI | 39–41 mpg | 8.3–8.7 s | 160–171 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI 4x4 | 35 mpg | 8.8 s | 191 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI DSG | 39–40 mpg | 8.5–8.6 s | 164–170 g/km |
| 1.9 TDI PD | 49 mpg | 12.6 s | 153 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 | 51–61 mpg | 10.1–10.2 s | 119–145 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 4x4 | 45 mpg | 9.1 s | 165 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 4x4 DSG | 45–53 mpg | 10.4–10.8 s | 139–166 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 4x4 Outdoor | 53 mpg | 10.4 s | 139 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 DSG | 46–54 mpg | 8.9–10.3 s | 137–159 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 | 46–60 mpg | 8.7–8.9 s | 122–159 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 4x4 | 45–50 mpg | 8.8–9.1 s | 149–165 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 DSG | 46–52 mpg | 8.7–8.9 s | 141–159 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 DSG 4x4 Outdoor | 50 mpg | 8.8 s | 149 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI PD | 46 mpg | 10.3 s | 160 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI DSG | 35 mpg | 7.9 s | 180 g/km |
| 3.6 V6 4x4 | 28–30 mpg | 6.5–6.6 s | 217–237 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Skoda Superb Estate (2010 – 2015)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
90%
Real MPG
22–68 mpg
MPGs submitted
336
Skoda Superb Estate (2010 – 2015) interior
- Boot space is 633–1865 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4833–4838 mm |
| Width | 1817–2009 mm |
| Height | 1510–1511 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm |
Inside, there's a lot more to the Superb Estate than just a big boot - it's classy, upmarket and shows great attention to detail. The driver benefits from a comfortable and highly adjustable driving position while the steering wheel adjusts for height and reach, while the seats can be adjusted in a number of directions. Everything inside appears high quality, from the seat fabrics, to the switches, buttons and systems - the sat nav (where fitted) and stereo system, for instance, also appear in the Volkswagen Touareg.
Rear passengers are pampered too. There's more legroom than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, which means that passengers can really stretch out. To emphasise this, there's a couple of adjustable footrests for the passengers. The Superb's shape lends itself to good headroom, while on the move, it's quiet with wind, road and engine noise very well suppressed.
Opt for the electrically-operated two-piece panoramic glass sunroof that runs the length of the car and the interior is bright as well as roomy. Getting out of the car in the rain? No problem, as with the saloon, there's an umbrella (on SE and Elegance models) concealed in the rear passenger door with a built-in drying system.
But it's the boot that's the star attraction. As well as its sheer size (you'll need to buy a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate to beat its 1865 litre load space), it's also practical in a number of other ways. It's low to the ground and therefore easy to load and boxes and bags can be securely stowed with an effective partition and tether system that uses an extendable bar (see gallery for images of how this works) to divide up the space.
All models get roof rails and an electric tailgate is available in top models. Uniquely, the height at which it opens can be set by the owner - useful if you regularly go shopping and park in the same multi-storey car park. The tailgate also lights up the whole of the rear area when it's open by using downlighters on the tailgate itself and there's a handy rechargeable torch just inside the boot. It'll last for up to 48 hours and is magnetic, so will stick to the car's body - ideal if you need to change a wheel in the dark.
Equipment from launch (2010):
S is the entry-level model and comes with seven airbags, an alarm with interior monitoring and tilt sensor, split folding rear seats, remote central locking, Climatic air conditioning, CD stereo, electric front and rear windows, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, 16-inch Spectrum alloy wheels, ESP stability control and front fog lights.
SE adds front fog lights with cornering function, four-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, umbrella in rear door, Alcantara upholstery, rear parking sensors, cruise control, dual-zone air conditioning, 17inch Trifid alloy wheels, electrically folding door mirrors and an integrated six CD touchscreen stereo.
Elegance has xenon headlights with integrated headlight washers, AFS (Adaptive Front-light System), tyre pressure monitor, rain sensitive windscreen wipers, Bluetooth, heated front seats, full leather upholstery, electrically adjustable driver and passenger seats, colour touchscreen satellite navigation, 18-inch alloy wheels and a four-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel.
Skoda Superb Estate (2010 – 2015) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4833–4838 mm |
| Width | 1817–2009 mm |
| Height | 1510–1511 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1414–1661 kg |
| Boot Space | 633–1865 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 10000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Alternative | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £18,190–£34,705 |
| Insurance Groups | 13–34 |
| Road Tax Bands | C–L |
| Official MPG | 27.7–65.7 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until October 2015
On sale until July 2013
On sale until July 2010
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S 1.9 TDI PD | £18,190 | 48.7 mpg | 12.6 s |
| SE 1.9 TDI PD | £20,330 | 48.7 mpg | 12.6 s |
On sale until January 2010
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Elegance 2.0 TDI PD | £23,870 | 46.3 mpg | 10.3 s |
| Elegance 2.0 TDI PD Auto | £23,870 | - | - |
| S 2.0 TDI PD 4dr | £19,255 | 46.3 mpg | 10.3 s |
| S 2.0 TDI PD 4dr Auto | £19,255 | - | - |
| SE 2.0 TDI PD 4dr | £21,395 | 46.3 mpg | 10.3 s |
| SE 2.0 TDI PD 4dr Auto | £21,395 | - | - |
Model History
- February 2010: Skoda Superb Estate went on sale in the UK
- February 2010
- May 2010
- August 2010
- September 2010
- November 2010
- October 2012: Skoda announced the Superb Outdoor
- February 2014: Revised Superb Outdoor launched
- June 2014: Skoda Superb TdF launched
February 2010
Skoda Superb Estate went on sale in the UK
Has class-leading load volume of up to 1865 litres (633 litres with the rear seats up) and a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines, plus manual and DSG transmissions. The Superb Estate is 4,838 mm long, 1,817 wide and 1,510 high.
New optional features, include keyless entry and ignition system and a revised version of the hatchback’s award-winning Park Assist system that allows the estate to parallel park in an even tighter space than before. An electronically operated boot opening and panoramic sunroof are also available.
Summary of engine range for Superb:
Petrol:
1.4 TSI 125bhp
1.8 TSI 160bhp (manual or 7 spd DSG, 4x4 available)
3.6 V6 260bhp DSG 4x4
Diesel:
1.9 TDI 105bhp (replaced by a 1.6 TDI 105bhp in August 2010)
2.0 TDI CR 140bhp with DPF (manual or DSG). Available from March 2010
2.0 TDI CR 170bhp with DPF (manual or DSG, 4x4 available)
The Superb Estate includes features that are unique over its sister hatch version. These include roof rails (black on the S; chrome on SE and Elegance); a removable LED torch; and load-bay illuminating lights built into the tailgate. SE and Elegance also feature a load partition and tethering system in the boot as standard
A 4WD version is also available with 1.8 TSI 160bhp and 3.6 V6 260bhp petrol engines as well as the 2.0 TDI CR 170bhp diesel. 4th generation Haldex clutched system transfers torque to whichever wheels have the most traction by taking signals from the ABS sensors, greatly increasing driving safety in snowy and icy conditions.
February 2010
The 2.0 TDI CR 140PS was added to the line up and this new model is even more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly than the 2.0 TDI PD 140PS it replaces. Combined fuel consumption has improved and is now 51.4mpg, while CO2 emissions have been reduced to 145g/km. The standard diesel particulate filter (DPF) also ensures compliance with the latest EU5 emissions regulations. The new 2.0 TDI CR 140PS DPF engine is available with a choice of six-speed manual or twin-clutch DSG transmissions in S, SE or Elegance trim.
In the Practical Caravan Towcar Awards 2010 the Skoda Superb Estate 2.0 TDI CR 170 SE was named best car in the 1,575-1,724kg class.
May 2010
New SE Plus trim introduced and new 1.8 TSI 152PS engine added to the range.
New trim level sits between SE and Elegance models and adds extra equipment but with savings of up to £1310
| Superb Estate | |
| SE Plus 1.8 TSI 152PS | |
| Emissions | |
| CO2 (g/km) | 170 |
| Engine & Drivetrain | |
| CC | 1,798 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Performance | |
| 0 to 62 mph (sec) | 8.6 |
| Engine power – PS | 152 |
| – at RPM | 4,500-6,200 |
| Engine torque – NM | 250 |
| – at RPM | 1,500-4,500 |
| Top speed (mph) | 135 |
| Fuel consumption | |
| Urban (mpg) | 29.7 |
| Extra urban (mpg) | 47.9 |
| Combined (mpg) | 38.7 |
August 2010
A new 1.6 TDI CR 105PS engine was introduced, which offers improved fuel consumption and CO2 over the 1.9 TDI PD unit which it replaces. Combined mpg has been improved by an impressive 5.6mpg while emissions have been reduced by 20g/km. Available in S and SE trim levels, the 1.6 TDI CR comes with a five speed manual gearbox.
September 2010
GreenLine versions are also offered on the range-topping Skoda Superb and Superb Estate. Both versions have combined fuel consumption of 64.2 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 114g/km.
November 2010
Automatic DSG transmission now offered with 2.0 TDI CR 140PS four-wheel drive on Octavia and Superb model lines. The four-wheel drive system is designed to tackle conditions that would leave two-wheel drive competitors stranded. Power distribution is controlled electronically by a fourth-generation Haldex clutch. Under normal traction conditions, 96% of the total power is directed to the front axle. In adverse weather conditions – similar to those experienced in the UK last winter – the Haldex system reacts in a split second to redirect power to those wheels with better traction, greatly increasing driving safety.
The 4×4′s capabilities aren’t limited to wintery conditions. In summer months the 4×4 technology will ensure that towing caravans and trailers is easier and safer, and because drive to the rear wheels is disengaged when not required, there’s little adverse effect on fuel consumption.
The introduction of an automatic twin-clutch DSG gearbox to the existing 2.0 TDI CR 140bhp engine adds to Škoda’s broad range of four-wheel drive cars which now includes Octavia Estate, Octavia Scout, Yeti, Superb hatch, and Superb Estate. Available to order in the UK from November 2010, with prices starting at £21,705.
Pricing & Technical Details
| Model | Trim | CO 2 | Torque | CO 2 | PRICE (OTR) | |||
| Superb Hatch | SE | 162 | 4,200 | 162 | 36.2 (7.8) | 54.3 (5.2) | 45.6 (6.2) | £22,935 |
| Superb Hatch | Elegance | 162 | 4,200 | 162 | 36.2 (7.8) | 54.3 (5.2) | 45.6 (6.2) | £25,410 |
| Superb Estate | SE | 166 | 4,200 | 166 | 36.2 (7.8) | 51.4 (5.5) | 44.8 (6.3) | £24,230 |
| Superb Estate | Elegance | 166 | 4,200 | 166 | 36.2 (7.8) | 51.4 (5.5) | 44.8 (6.3) | £26,705 |
October 2012
Skoda announced the Superb Outdoor
It comes with extra bodywork protection and an all-wheel drive system for tough weather conditions. It’s offered in estate body style and is available with a choice either petrol or diesel power. It’s priced from £28,465.
Changes over the standard Superb Estate SE, on which the Outdoor is based, include the addition of multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth, hill-hold control, heater washer nozzles and headlight washers. Protective plastic strips are added at the base of the doors, on the bumpers and around the wheel arches.
18 inch alloy wheels are standard, as is permanent all-wheel drive. The cleanest model produces 165g/km of CO2 and has fuel economy of 44.8mpg. Power comes from either a 1.8-litre petrol with 160PS or a 2.0 TDI diesel with either 170PS (manual) or 140PS (DSG automatic). Prices start at £26,465 and rise to £28,100 for the 2.0 TDI DSG.
February 2014
Revised Superb Outdoor launched
The Superb Outdoor is returning to the range for the first time since the model’s facelift during 2013. With off-road adventure styling as standard, the car features additional specification above the SE trim on which it’s based, and is available with four-wheel-drive transmission for grip and extra peace of mind.
Standard equipment includes new front and rear bumpers, wheel arch and side sill extensions, loading sill protection and side body mouldings. All are finished in matt grey.
Additional kit includes 18-inch ‘Trinity’ anthracite alloys, Hill Hold Control, tyre pressure monitor, integrated front headlight washers, heated washer nozzles and sunset glass.
The Superb Outdoor and Outdoor Plus will be available with one of two existing transmissions – the 2.0-litre TDI CR 140PS 4x4 DPF or 2.0-litre TDI CR 170PS 4x4 DSG DPF. The on-the-road price for each Outdoor model is £26,995 and £29,235 respectively. That’s a £2,000 premium over SE trim, but with such a high specification it represents exceptional value-for-money.
For customers who want the ultimate in luxury and comfort for their adventures, the Superb Outdoor Plus adds full leather upholstery and an ‘Amundsen’ satellite navigation system with integrated DAB digital radio. It costs a further £1,000.
June 2014
Skoda Superb TdF launched
Designed with the keen cyclist in mind, it comes with ‘le Tour de France’ badging, waterproof seat covers and bike wheel bags – all of which feature the Tour de France logo. In addition, customers will receive a centenary edition of the Rouleur Tour de France book and a competition entry to win a VIP Tour de France experience.
Only 198 examples are available to customers - that’s the exact number of cyclists entered into this year's race. The Superb TdF is priced at £28,490 and is based on the Estate Outdoor 2.0-litre TDI 140PS 4x4 and has an Amundsen satellite navigation system with DAB digital radio, Keyless Entry and Start System, floor mats and an internal bike rack, along with a space saver spare wheel and boot net programme.
What to watch out for
Report of repeated failure of hillholder brake.
05-03-2011:Climate control problems.
16-06-2012:Very poor response from Skoda breakdown services when an Irish owner's Superb TDI 170 DSG broke down in France. So bad he was eventually forced to use his classic car breakdown cover to get the car transported back.
20-07-2012:Sporadic reports of high oil consumption of chain cam 1.8 TSI and 2.0TSI engines. Apparently VWG considers 1,000 miles a litre to be "normal" oil consumption for these engines. The reason is probably filling the engines with synthetic oil on the production line and owners not revving the engines sufficiently to bed in the oil rings.
10-08-2012:Faults with a 2.0 TDI 170 DSG Elegance Estate over 2 years, all fixed under warranty: A ir blower failed summer 2011 when car was a year old. Fixed under warranty. Wheel bearing fixed under warranty (possibly damaged after hitting a pothole). One headlight washer would not function at a year old. Fixed under warranty. Paint peeled off both badges at a year old. Fixed under warranty. Crack in trim on drivers door trim fixed under warranty at two years old. Satnav updated FOC by DMG Motors in Donegal. Stuffed EGR valve put engine into limp home mode. Difficult to run high revs and clear it with the DSG box.
30-12-2012:Another report of total failure of Columbus satnav system, this time in a 2009 Superb, at age 3 years 7 months (so out of warranty). Control screen went blank. Skoda dealer quoteds £2,500 for new system and Skoda offered to pay 75% of the cost, reducing the damage to £700.
11-01-2013:Warranty on DSG extended to 5 years or 150,000 kilometres in Russia, China and Australia.
11-04-2013:More problems on admittedly high mileage (181,000 kilometre) Superb 2.0 TDI DSG. January 2013: window regulator went on drivers side with window in down position during wet weather but fixed by skoda as a goodwill gesture. February 2013: air blower motor went tempremental. April 2013: windscreen wiper motor gone.
15-03-2014:Skoda Superb estate L&K with a 2.0 TSI reported as using half a litre of oil in 2,800 miles. Actually not bad for this engine but could get worse.
28-03-2016:Excessive oil consumption reported from engine of 2011 Skoda Superb 4x4 1.8T Estate at 40,000 miles. Car has CDAA engine with history of piston oil ring and oil consumption problems. Quoted £4,500 to replace engine before an contribution from the supplying dealer or from Skoda.
04-06-2016:Columbus satnav problems can often be fixed by a £120 're-flash' and mapping update by Hazzydays of St Albans, link Hazzydayz
26-11-2016:Occasional judder reported when moving off in 35k mile 2012 Skoda Superb Automatic Petrol Estate has recently occurred. It has the 7 speed DSG gearbox.
16-05-2019:Report of EGR of 2013 Skoda Superb Estate 2.0 TDI 4x4 getting blocked within 2 years of the NOx emissions software update. Was covered by the consequential issues warranty of the emissions recall.
