Skoda Superb (2008 – 2015) Review
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Skoda Superb (2008 – 2015) At A Glance
Limousine-like amounts of rear legroom. Clever dual tailgate means it's both a hatch and a saloon. GreenLine model is very economical. A lot of car for the money.
Earlier 1.9 TDI engine is noisy and lacks refinement. No rear wiper. Usual hesitation from DSG. Columbus navigation prone to failure after about four years.
If you're looking for the newer version, you need our Skoda Superb review.
If you still have any preconceived ideas about the Skoda brand be prepared to change them. Because the Superb finally dispels all those old myths and shows that it's possible to find a car that's well built, incredibly spacious and good to drive, but still great value for money.
The Superb has as much rear space as four-door saloons that cost three times as much while the quality feel of the interior adds to the premium car feel. Yet with prices starting at less than £20,000, it almost seems too good to be true. But there's no catch. This is simply one of the most compelling cars on the market today and a model that does everything right and very little wrong.
There's a good choice of engines including the usual 2.0 TDI options while the GreenLine variant is powered by a 1.6 TDI which works surprisingly well considering its small size and returns a claimed 64.2mpg with CO2 emissions of just 119g/km. There are also 4x4 versions plus the option of DSG automatics. On the road the Superb handles very well with nicely weighted steering and good poise in corners.
The Superb also comes with the clever Twindoor feature - standard on all models. It means the tailgate of the Superb can open as a standard boot or, with the push if a different button, it opens as a hatchback giving it great practicality if needed. This also gives great access to the huge boot while other highlights inside include the now famous umbrella holder in the left-hand rear door on SE and Elegance models.
Reviews for Skoda Superb (2008 – 2015)'s top 3 rivals
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Skoda Superb (2008 – 2015) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.4 TSI to 3.6 V6 4x4
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 27–67 mpg
There are three petrol and three diesel engines in the Superb line-up but most people go for the mid-level 2.0 TDI with 140PS. This was originally an older PD (which stands for Pumpe Duse if you're at all interested) but in February 2010 it was replaced with a smoother and more efficient 2.0 TDI CR (common rail) engine. The original PD version was a strong engine and economical, returning an official 47.9mpg but the CR unit is a big improvement.
It's quieter with less noticeable vibration inside and the power delivery is far smoother too. Unlike the PD, where there was often a big lag at low revs before all the torque suddenly came on tap, the 2.0 TDI CR is much more predictable and picks up power smoothly. It has the same power and torque (320Nm) figures but is cleaner with a claimed economy figure of 52.3mpg while CO2 drops from 155g/km to 143g/km.
The top diesel is the 2.0 TDI CR but with 170PS and 350Nm of torque. It's the best engine in the Superb for everyday useable performance with a 0-62mph time of 8.8 seconds and has plenty of low down grunt for effortless overtaking. It's as quiet as the 140PS version and still economical, averaging around 50mpg according to the official figures.
Both 2.0 TDI engines are available with the DSG automatic gearbox as an optional extra (along with the 1.8 TSI), which uses two clutches to deliver lightning quick gear shifts, but it can be a little hesitant at lower speeds and sometimes needs some encouragement from your right foot to get going. Not ideal at junctions or roundabouts.
Originally the entry-level diesel was the 1.9 TDI - a diesel engine that's been used across the Volkswagen Group for years now. It's a pretty noisy and unrefined engines by modern standards and so it's surprising that Skoda fitted it in the more luxurious Superb. It certainly doesn't go with the 'quality' image. It is reasonably economical with a claimed average of 49.6mpg but it lacks sophistication so it was no surprise when it was replaced in August 2010 by a far better 1.6 TDI which is a common rail unit rather than a PD.
The 1.6 TDI has the same 105PS power output as the old 1.9 TDI and an identical 250Nm of torque, although it peaks lower down the rev range. The 0-62mph time is the same 12.5 seconds but the significant differences are in fuel economy - the 1.6 TDI returning 56.5mpg with CO2 emissions of 130g/km.
This engine is also used in the GreenLine II model (the 1.9 TDI was used for the original GreenLine). It may not look particularly stylish with its smaller wheels, but the changes Skoda has made have a big impact. Thanks to features like low rolling resistance tyres, a lower ride height and revised aerodynamics it is capable of a claimed 64.2mpg with CO2 emissions of just 114g/km. It's a surprisingly good performer too with decent get up and go, strong in gear acceleration plus it's pretty quiet.
The petrol line up starts with the 1.4 TSI engine which sounds far too small for a car the size of the Superb. However, it's fitted with a turbocharger and is actually more powerful and quicker than the 2.0-litre petrol in the old Superb. There's 125PS on tap along with 200Nm of torque and it works surprisingly well. For more power there is the 1.8 TSI which has 160PS but is quite thirsty with an official economy of 37.2mpg - and considerably less if you put your foot down.
It was improved in May 2011 and although power drops marginally to 152PS it's as quick from 0-62mph - taking 8.6 seconds - plus economy improves to 39.2mpg. The top engine is the 3.6-litre V6 - the largest engine fitted in a modern day Skoda. It's not an obvious choice and rare on the used market but it does give the Superb a 0-62mph time of 6.5 seconds which is a record for a Skoda production car. It develops 260bhp and is wonderfully smooth with a nice V6 sound. But 28mpg and emissions of 235g/km means it's not the most sensible of choices.
On the road the Superb is a great performer. It corners neatly - perfectly flat with decent steering feel and even if you go for larger alloy wheels and low profile tyres the ride isn't too firm. It's quiet too (aside from the earlier 1.9 TDI engine) and at motorway speeds feels very much the relaxed luxury saloon. For long journeys there is no car finer. Rain does show up one weakness of the Superb though. The twindoor rear hatch has no wiper, so seeing behind can be like peering through a shower curtain.
Certain models are available with four-wheel drive - a real rarity in this market. The 1.8 TSI along with the 2.0 TDI 140PS and 2.0 TDI 170PS can all be specified as 4x4 versions (the 3.6 model comes with four-wheel drive as standard) which is a great advantage in snowy and icy conditions.
If you don't need the rugged look or extra ground clearance, but want the extra ability of a 4x4, these are ideal. They look identical to the standard models and aren't just for towing caravans or horseboxes either. In terms of handing the four-wheel drive makes a considerable difference. As well as the obvious advantages of extra traction, for instance when pulling out of a junction in the wet or when driving over compacted snow, four-wheel drive has benefits for handling too.
On a specially constructed low friction circuit, we were able to to compare driving a 4x4 Superb with an identically engined 2WD drive version. Not only does the 4x4 feel much more composed, but you don't need as much steering input in corners and it puts down its power much more smoothly, without the front wheels scrabbling for grip. But the biggest difference is the speed. The 4x4 Superb is considerably quicker round the course and gives you more confidence in bends.
In terms of cost, opting for a 4x4 Superb carries around a £1500 premium and there is an obvious impact on fuel economyand CO2 emissions, although it's not huge, as the Haldex clutch only sends drive to the rear wheels when it's needed. So, for example on a Superb 2.0 TDI 140bhp manual, choosing the 4x4 model means a only 4mpg less and an increase in CO2 emissions from 149g/km to 163gkm (moving it from VED Band F to G and making it £30 a year more to tax).
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 TSI | 42–48 mpg | 10.5 s | 138–157 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI | 57–63 mpg | 12.1–12.5 s | 117–130 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI Greenline | 67 mpg | 12.2 s | 109 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI Greenline II | 64 mpg | 12.5 s | 114 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI | 39–42 mpg | 8.2–8.6 s | 158–169 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI 4x4 | 35 mpg | 8.7 s | 189 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI DSG | 40–42 mpg | 8.2–8.5 s | 162–168 g/km |
| 1.9 TDI | 50 mpg | 12.5 s | 149 g/km |
| 1.9 TDI Greenline | 58 mpg | 12.5 s | 129 g/km |
| 2.0 CR TDI 170 | 50 mpg | 8.8 s | 149 g/km |
| 2.0 CR TDI 170 DSG | 47 mpg | 8.8 s | 157 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 | 61 mpg | 10.0 s | 119 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 4x4 DSG | 53 mpg | 10.3 s | 137 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 140 DSG | 54 mpg | 10.1 s | 135 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 | 61 mpg | 8.6 s | 120 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 4x4 | 50 mpg | 8.7 s | 147 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 170 DSG | 53 mpg | 8.6 s | 139 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR | 50 mpg | 8.8 s | 149 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 140 | 52 mpg | 10.1 s | 143 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 140 4x4 DSG | 46 mpg | 10.7 s | 162 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 140 DSG | 48 mpg | 10.2 s | 154 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 170 | 50 mpg | 8.8 s | 149 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 170 4x4 | 46 mpg | 9.0 s | 163 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 170 DSG | 47 mpg | 8.8 s | 157 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 4x4 | 46 mpg | 9.0 s | 163 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR 4x4 DSG | 46 mpg | 10.7 s | 162 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI CR DSG | 47 mpg | 8.8 s | 157 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI PD | 42–48 mpg | 10.2 s | 155–177 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI DSG | 36 mpg | 7.8 s | 178 g/km |
| 3.6 V6 4x4 | 28–30 mpg | 6.4–6.5 s | 215–235 g/km |
| 3.6 V6 4x4 DSG | 28 mpg | 6.5 s | 235 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Skoda Superb (2008 – 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
94%
Real MPG
27–67 mpg
MPGs submitted
325
Skoda Superb (2008 – 2015) interior
- Boot space is 595–1700 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4833–4838 mm |
| Width | 1817–2009 mm |
| Height | 1447–1462 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm |
The Superb is easily the most upmarket model Skoda has ever built. Don't think this is merely a Passat in a posh suit, it uses a tailor-made chassis for starters and has its own unique interior that feels well finished and well built. The layout of the dash is straightforward with the air conditioning and stereo controls easy to use. The instrument dials are the traditional analogue type while in between the large speedo and rev counter there's a trip computer display.
There's plenty of seat adjustment for the driver plus the steering column has an impressive amount of reach and height adjustment, so no matter how tall or short you are, finding a good driving position is easy. The steering wheel is nice to hold and all the switches work with a satisfying robustness. It's classy too and at night you can appreciate the CatVision lighting system that incorporates LEDs in the headlining that bathe the interior in a soft white light.
But the real standout point of the Superb is the limousine-level of space it offers. It has even more passenger room than the previous Superb, despite having a shorter wheelbase, so in the back there's more legroom than you'd get in business class. It's mightily impressive and even six-footers plus will be amazed and how much space there is while there's loads of head room too. There are very few cars that have more rear space and certainly none that are as affordable as the Superb.
It also has the now famous umbrella holder. Standard on SE and Elegance models, this is a water-resistant storage slot hidden in the left hand rear door. It comes complete with a nice Skoda branded umbrella (one that you'd actually be happy to use without feeling embarrassed) coated with a special anti-mould solution.
The Twindoor variable boot is another clever feature. It means you can open the boot of the Superb like a standard saloon, or alternatively the whole thing lifts like a hatchback. It may sound like a gimmick (why not just have a hatchback opening as standard) but it's actually very useful. While the full hatchback opening gives easy access to the large boot, if you're in a tight parking space or low-roofed multi-storey car park, just being able to open the saloon boot is far easier. Plus, if the boot is opened on a very hot or cold day, the passenger compartment is effectively insulated from any sudden changes in temperature, unlike a hatchback.
The boot is enormous with 565 litres of luggage space - about the same as a BMW 5 Series Touring - plus if you go for the optional Variable Boot Floor, there's extra luggage room underneath the boot floor for smaller items (ideal for carrying a tow rope). Folding the seats down sees space increase to 1670 litres which is on oar with most large estates.
Standard equipment from launch (September 2008):
S models have seven airbag, an alarm with interior monitoring, light Assistant (coming home, tunnel and daylight functions), split folding rear seats, remote central locking, Climatic air conditioning, radio with single CD, rlectric front and rear windows, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, 16-inch ‘Spectrum' alloy wheels, ESP, Twindoor plus front fog lights.
SE adds front fog lights with cornering function, a four-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, umbrella in the rear door, Alcantara upholstery, rear parking sensors, cruise control, dual-zone air conditioning, 17-inch ‘Trifid' alloy wheels, electrically folding door mirrors, integrated six CD touchscreen stereo and a trip computer.
SE Plus (introduced in May 2011) adds Amundsen touch-screen satellite navigation system, Bluetooth, a multi-function steering wheel, sunset privacy glass and Media Device Interface (MDI) with connecting cable.
Elegance models have xenon headlights with integrated headlight washers, AFS (Adaptive Front-light System), tyre pressure monitor, rain sensor windscreen wipers, Bluetooth, heated front seats, full leather upholstery, electrically adjustable diver and passenger seats, ‘Colombus' colour touchscreen satellite navigation, 18-inch ‘Themisto' alloy wheels, four spoke leather multi-function steering wheel,
Greenline models are based on the S but come with 16-inch 'Spectrum' alloys, chrome window surrounds, cruise control, lowered suspension (by 15mm), four-spoke leather steering wheel, small leather pack, a small rear boot spoiler, umbrella in the rear door and a tyre repair kit (rather than a spare wheel).
Skoda Superb (2008 – 2015) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4833–4838 mm |
| Width | 1817–2009 mm |
| Height | 1447–1462 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1392–1639 kg |
| Boot Space | 595–1700 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 10000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Alternative | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £17,110–£32,775 |
| Insurance Groups | 13–34 |
| Road Tax Bands | B–L |
| Official MPG | 28.0–67.3 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | 5 |
| Child | 2 |
| Pedestrian | 2 |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until October 2015
On sale until July 2013
On sale until July 2010
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| GreenLine 1.9 TDI PD | £17,785 | 57.7 mpg | 12.5 s |
| S 1.9 TDI PD 4dr | £17,110 | 49.6 mpg | 12.5 s |
| SE 1.9 TDI PD 4dr | £19,100 | 49.6 mpg | 12.5 s |
On sale until April 2010
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Elegance 2.0 TDI PD 4dr | £22,675 | 47.9 mpg | 10.2 s |
| Elegance 2.0 TDI PD 4dr Auto | £24,100 | 41.5 mpg | 10.2 s |
| S 2.0 TDI PD 4dr | £18,210 | 47.9 mpg | 10.2 s |
| S 2.0 TDI PD 4dr Auto | £19,635 | 41.5 mpg | 10.2 s |
| SE 2.0 TDI PD 4dr | £20,200 | 47.9 mpg | 10.2 s |
| SE 2.0 TDI PD 4dr Auto | £21,625 | 41.5 mpg | 10.2 s |
Model History
- September 2008: New Superb launched
- October 2008: Superb GreenLine launched
- February 2010
- August 2010
- September 2010
- November 2010
- May 2011: New SE Plus trim
- March 2013
- February 2014: Superb Outdoor launched
September 2008
New Superb launched
Has unique rear 'Twindoor' which works either as a conventional bootlid or as a hatch, making the car effectively both a saloon and a hatchback.
4,838mm x 1,817mm x 1,462mm.
It was initially available with a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines, from the 1.9 TDI PD 105bhp to the top 3.6 V6 260bhp 4x4 DSG. A new 2.0 TDI common rail diesel engine with an impressive 170bhp is available for the first time and four wheel drive and DSG gearboxes are also debuting on a number of engines.
Insurance groups start from a 6E rating on the entry level diesel and 7E on the entry level petrol, both of which are extremely low for a car of this size. Three trim levels are available on the New Superb: S, SE and Elegance. Standard features across the range include ESP, seven airbags, front and rear electric windows, alloy wheels and ‘Twindoor,' a unique system for variable boot opening, never seen in the industry before, which transforms the New Superb from a saloon to a hatch at the touch of a button.
Shortly after launch the Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI won the overall title in The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Awards 2009. The car, which also won the £20,000 to £25,000 class, beat 37 rivals to the title, including the defending champion, the Ford Mondeo Titanium X 2.5 T Estate.
Summary of engine range for Superb:
Petrol:
1.4 TSI 125 bhp
1.8 TSI 160 bhp (manual or 7 spd DSG, 4x4 available)
3.6 V6 260 bhp DSG 4x4
Diesel:
1.9 TDI 105 bhp (replaced by 1.6 TDI 105bhp in August 2010)
2.0 TDI CR 140 bhp with DPF (manual or DSG). Available from March 2010
2.0 TDI CR 170 bhp with DPF (manual or DSG, 4x4 available)
October 2008
Superb GreenLine launched
Powered by a 1.9 TDI PD engine, fitted with a diesel particulate filter, with 105bhp and a five speed manual gearbox. The Superb Greenline emits 136g/km of CO2 and has a combined fuel consumption of 55.4mpg. Skoda engineers have achieved this by developing a number of solutions. These include reducing the weight of the car, making the gearing longer and re-mapping the engine for greater efficiency. This, together with improved aerodynamics and low resistance tyres, adds up to a more environmentally conscious vehicle.
February 2010
A new 2.0 TDI CR 140PS with common rail technology was launched and this new model is more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly than the 2.0 TDI PD 140PS it replaces. Combined fuel consumption has improved by 4.4mpg and is now 52.3mpg, while CO2 emissions have been reduced by 12g/km to just 143g/km. The standard diesel particulate filter (DPF) also ensures compliance with the latest EU5 emissions regulations. The 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.
August 2010
A 1.6 TDI CR 105PS engine was added to the range and this new diesel offers improved fuel consumption and CO2 over the 1.9 TDI PD unit which it replaces. Combined mpg has been improved by an impressive 6.9mpg, while emissions have been reduced by 19g/km. Available in S and SE trim levels, the 1.6 TDI CR comes with a five speed manual gearbox.
| Superb Hatch | Superb Estate | |||
| S 1.9 TDI PD 105bhp | S 1.6TDI CR 105bhp | S 1.9 TDI PD 105bhp | S 1.6TDI CR 105bhp | |
| 0 to 62 mph (secs) | 12.5 | 12.5 | 12.6 | 12.6 |
| Max performance (bhp/rpm) | 105/4,000 | 105/4,400 | 105/4,000 | 105/4,400 |
| Max torque (Nm/rpm) | 250/1,900 | 250/1,500-2,500 | 250/1,900 | 250/1,500-2,500 |
| Max speed (mph) | 118 | 117 | 117 | 116 |
| Fuel consumption | ||||
| Urban (mpg) | 38.7 | 45.6 | 38.2 | 44.8 |
| Extra Urban (mpg) | 58.9 | 64.2 | 57.7 | 61.4 |
| Combined (mpg) | 49.6 | 56.5 | 48.7 | 54.3 |
| CO 2 (g/km) | 149 | 130 | 153 | 133 |
| Emissions | EUIV | EUV | EUIV | EUV |
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.
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 |
May 2011
New SE Plus trim
introduced Skoda has launched an all-new trim level called SE Plus across its entire multi-award winning model range. Offering even greater value for money and choice for customers, it sits between SE and range-topping Elegance models, and offers customers savings of up to £1,310.
It’s offered on a wide range of Škoda’s engines, including the new 1.8 TSI 152PS engine that will be available in the Superb. Additional features above SE trim include Amundsen touch-screen satellite navigation system, Bluetooth telephone connectivity, multi-function steering wheel, sunset privacy glass and Media Device Interface (MDI) with connecting cable.
| Equipment value over SE | £2,485 |
| Customer premium over SE | £1,210 |
| Saving | £1,275 |
New engine details:
| Superb Hatch | |
| SE Plus 1.8 TSI 152PS | |
| Emissions | |
| CO2 (g/km) | 169 |
| 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) | 137 |
| Fuel consumption | |
| Urban (mpg) | 30.1 |
| Extra urban (mpg) | 47.9 |
| Combined (mpg) | 39.2 |
March 2013
Skoda revealed a facelifted Superb on sale from June 2013. Both the hatch and estate versions get redesigned front and rear ends with a new bonnet and bumpers plus larger headlights and a wider grille. The redesign reflects the new Skoda look seen on the Rapid and Octavia.
The changes aren't dramatic but the rear of the hatch looks quite different with new light clusters. The tailgate on the estate has been changed too with a much squarer look, again following on from the Octavia . There are also two new metallic paint colours - Meteor Grey and Moon White along with new alloy wheel designs. Inside there are new fabrics and patterns for the seats.
Engine line-up has improved with start/stop and energy recuperation now standard on all TDI models plus the 1.4 TSI 125PS. This means better fuel economy and lower emission with the Superb Greenline now averaging a claimed 67.3mpg compared to 64.2mpg previously while CO2 is down to 109g/km - a drop of 10g/km.
Other changes include a manual gearbox in the 2.0 TDI 140PS 4x4, previously only available as a DSG. And a DSG is now offered with the 2.0 TDI 170PS 4x4 which up till June 2013 was manual only.
Boot space remains unchanged with the estate still capable of carrying an impressive 633 litres which can increase to 1865 litres with the seats down plus the Superb still has the umbrella that's stored in the rear door. It now also comes with the latest-generation Park Assist. The new system allows both parallel and reverse bay parking and assists when entering and leaving parking spaces.
February 2014
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.
What to watch out for
Report of repeated failure of hillholder brake.
05-03-2011:Climate control problems.
02-03-2012:Sat nav prone to failure just after the 3 year warranty expires, and the VWG extended warranty does not cover it.
Persistent 'rogue car' problems reported with November 2010 Superb fitted with KESSY (Skoda's keyless system). Folding mirrors failing to fold, 'Key not Found' messages on attempts to start.
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 foerced to use his classic car breakdown cover to get the car transported back.
25-07-2012:Columbus computer system prone to crashing due to a software problem. If this occurs when the car is more than 3 years old Skoda will not replace the system or reprogramme the software.
13-09-2012: List of complaints about a Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI 7-speed DSG bought new in November 2009:
1: Fuel gauge mis-reading or not registering at all. It took three visits before this fault was cured.
2: Parking aid screen failing intermittently to come on. A software upgrade worked temporarily but the fault has returned. The dealer wanted to change the navigation unit but Skoda would not agree.
3: Temporary loss of power steering - re-set after switching off.
4: Park-assist malfunction, identified a non-existent space and a few minutes later completely mis-steered the car onto a collision course. Software upgrade applied.
5: Temporary loss of all gears on a main road whilst car was in motion. Cause not identified.
6: rough gear change between 1st and 2nd. Car is waiting to go into dealer for major work to cure this.
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 quoted £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.
03-04-2013:Another Columbus satnav failure reported in a 2009 Superb. Put down to hard disc drive failure rather than software problem.
03-06-2013:Further report of failure of Columbus satnav, again on a 2009 Superb. Dealer pretended he had never heard of one failing before. Quoted £2,100 to replace it, later reduced to £1,270 including fitting and VAT. reader declined.
10-10-2013:Complaint from reader only getting 12,500 miles from 225/45 R17 tyres on a Superb 2.0 TDI CR140 SE plus. Rims also prone to kerb damage.
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.
17-03-2014:Various problems with a 45k mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI DSG over the years have included hesitation in take-off from the DSG (probably needs a fluid and microfilter change), rusted and pitted brake discs even with regular use, leaking panoramic roof because the sun visor had been screwed directly into the roof drain system, panoramic roof failing to open on warm days, gear selector had to be replaced, poor ride from low profile tyres intesely disliked, heated windscreen replaced after cracking.
09-04-2014:Faults with new Skoda Superb Exclusive delivered in January 2014 include: 1. Water ingress to near side headlight. 2. Windows down of their own accord overnight. 3. Drivers seat would not set as manual, garage needed to email HQ for instructions. 4. Cruise control suspect 5. Auto stop/start on occasions will stop when crawling in traffic queues, this causes the car to abruptly stop. 6. Side mirrors do not close in when locking car as described in manual.
28-07-2014:Stretched timing chain reported on 49k mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI DSG, occuring almost immediately after TSB 37F2 recall for an engine/transmission oil change. VWG seems to have admitted a production problem with the timing chains of 1.4 TSI engines. This is badly translated from the German: Frank Tuch of Volkswagen said: "We do not have a serious problem. The chain damage to he 1.4 TSI was caused by accumulated manufacturing tolerances in the timing chain. The supplier of the chain had his punching tools used across the wear limit, so that they no longer punched the holes in the link plates accurately enoughand tiny burrs on steel remained. "Chips and burrs then ensured for abrasive wear entry. Result: the chain wears out. In addition to this manufacturing problem and the driving behavior can be crucial: cars that got moved in predominantly short journeys, are disproportionately affected by elongated timing chains."
22-09-2014:Transmission fluid changed under TSB TSB 34F6 in 45k mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI DSG in July 2014 with the explanation that the standard synthetic oil could cause an electrical fault in the Mechatronics of the DSG box. After a few hundred miles symptions of hesitation and noises ceased. Original complaint was received 17-3-2014 (above)and when the reader took the car to the dealer suggesting a change of fluid he was told this was nonsense and that the transmission was sealed for life.
24-09-2014:Skoda eventually met the full cost of replacing the stretched timing chain of a 49k mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI.
11-12-2014:Fifth report of failure of Columbus satnav on a Skoda Superb, this time on an 86,000 mile 2010/60 2.0TDI Elegance. The screen for the display/control of Columbus satnav, radio, CD player, etc went completely blank, although the radio and CD could still be operated by the side buttons even if you can’t ‘see’ what you’re doing. Skoda garage in Letchworth looked at it, advised a completely new unit is required, quoting a cost of £2,678.49 (fully inclusive of parts, labour, VAT). Since they had always serviced and maintained the car, they and Skoda offered to discount this by 45% including 15% goodwill from Skoda UK, which brought the cost of replacement down to £1,473.16.
25-02-2015:Report of 33,000 mile Skoda Superb with DSG 7 speed auto box giving problems.
25-03-2015:Report of 55k mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8TSI DSG using a lot of oil. Skoda dealer quoted a price of approx £3,500.00 to rectify the problem which centres around piston wear and oil usage.
28-05-2015:EGRs of Skoda Superb diesel failed twice at 34k miles and at 67k miles (car driven more than 30,000 miles in 1 year). Suspect use of cheap diesel as the cause.
01-01-0001:Unusual tyre wear reported on 2014 Skoda Superb 4x4 running on 225/40 R18s. Rears needed replacing at 13k miles. Fronts did 21k miles with about 2k still left on them.
30-11-2015:75,000 mile 2010 Skoda Superb 1.8TSI (CDAA engine) reported as using 1 litre of oil every 250 miles. Skoda refused out of warranty claim, offering a mere £300 towards a £4,500 repair. Service history of car not disclosed by reader. A piston ring manufacturing fault in this CDAA engine was the subject of a group action in the USA that led to Audi repairing 126,000 vehicles free of charge.
07-12-2015:Report of timing chain on 36,000 mile 2012 Skoda Superb Elegance stretching, 6 months out of warranty. Initially quoted £800 to replace the chain with no guarantee that damage to the engine has not already occurred. Case pending with Skoda, but likely that Skoda will pick up the tab.
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.
26-04-2016:Owner of 2012 Skoda Superb with EA189 2.0TDI engine told by his Skoda dealer Faintree Skoda of Telford that it may be the autumn before his 2 litre engine mod is due.
26-05-2016:Rear tyre tread blocking reported on 2012/62 Skoda Superb fitted with 225/40 R18 Avon ZZ5s. Inside row of tyre blocks seem to be wearing worst on every third or fourth rubber block with the blocks either side being between 1- 1.5 mm higher. Otherwise 4-5mm tread left. Noisy between 65 and 80mph. Most common on VAG cars on VW Sciroccos.
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
15-07-2016:Problems with 7-speed dry clutch DSG of 2011/61 Skoda Superb 1.8TSI reported. Flashing gear indicator alternating with spanner after 5 miles. Dealer said "perhaps a computer problem." May 11: cured then resumed. 12 July: 'health check' revealed leak in Mechatronics. It's a sealed unit and new one needed at £2,000, but offer to replace at £496. "OK to drive gently until part available." But on July 13th was losing drive which resumed after slow down and selecting 1st gear; this repeated three times. Repair started Friday, 15th. Clutch plates replaced under warranty a couple of years ago.
27-09-2016:Report of glowplug light of 41k mile November 2011 Skoda Superb 1.6TDI CR 105 intermittently flashing. Neither the AA (twice) nor the Skoda dealer could find any reason for it. Suspect a poor earth or the glowplug relay.
10-10-2016:Clutch and DMF of 2013/63 Skoda Superb failed at 50,000 miles. Happily, Skoda Assist via AA delivered the car to the owner's local Skoda Garage (Caffyns, Tunbridge Wells), arranged a taxi to take him to a car hire company, and provided 5 days free car hire. The clutch and dual mass flywheel were replaced at no charge.
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.
22-07-2017:Report of repeated failures of clutch release bearing in 2012 Skofa Superb 1.6TDI.
02-08-2017:Reassuring letter sent to owners of EA189 engined Skodas who have had the NOx emissions fix: “if a customer makes a complaint to an Authorised Repairer or to the Volkswagen Group in respect of a failure of the EGR, fuel injection system or emissions after treatment system within 24 months following the date of the implementation of the technical measures, in respect of a vehicle with mileage not exceeding 160,000 miles, SKODA will consider the complaint very carefully and if such complaint was established to have arisen as a result of the implementation of the technical measures, then Skoda will act responsibly and swiftly, in line with its goodwill policy, as supplemented in the annex, to respond to the consumers’ reasonable concerns.”
17-10-2017:Report of November 2011 Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI Elegance suffering an EGR failure in 2015, and then having the NOX emissions fix in 2016. It has now done 95,000 miles and in September 2017 glow plug light on dash started flashing to warn of an engine fault. Wenbt into limp more; no more than 3000rpm. Taken to Skoda dealer the next day, who diagnosed and fixed the Turbo Boost Sensor. They confirmed that this would be covered by the extended warranty (see 2-8-2017). It took until October 2nd for the Turbo Boost Sensor to arrive and the car was returned on October 3rd, with all faults apparently fixed. Then onOctober 4th the the engine fault recurred after about 5 miles when the engine reached full operating temperature with flashing glow plug and Engine Fault Workshop displayed in the matrix display. Car returned to Skoda dealer. Owner provided with a loan car. Dealer found a wiring problem with the Turbo Boost sensor and repaired it, then found the wiring to the Airbag Control Unit would need to be replaced at a cost of £600 for the part and 4.5 hours labour, totally over £1,000. They said that the wiring for both Turbo Boost Sensor and Airbag Control Unit ran close together in the same wiring loom. Denied having damaged it. Skoda UK left it in the hands of the garage.
04-01-2018:Post NOx emissions fix complaint that on a long motorway run at 70mph on cruise the mpg of a Skoda Superb 1.6TDI has dropped from 60mpg to 55mpg.
06-01-2018:Report of failure of ABS/ESP module of 2014 Skoda Superb at just 3 years and 3 months old (echoes of the old ATE Teves Mk 60 ABS/ESP module failures). Recently four warning lights came on simultaneously and dealer told owner the ABS control unit needs replacing at a cost of £1,466 (incl VAT). When pushed on goodwill dealer said Skoda UK will subsidise the part cost by 50%. They admitted it's a 'manufacturing defect' and a safety issue.
05-02-2018:Report of 7-speed DQ200 twin dry clutch DSG of 2009 Skoda Superb 1.8TSI losing drive.
11-09-2018:Report of slight judder from 7-speed DQ200 DSG of 2012 Skoda Superb 1.8TSI at 49,529 miles when changing from 1st to 2nd. Inspection by Skoda dealer cost £106.80 and diagnosed the need for a new "clutch pack, shims and software update required ref tpi for clutch judder" quoted at £1,192.50. According to the dealer Skoda have not offered any contribution to the cost. Owner shocked because this is the first thing that has gone wrong with his car. Local Skoda dealer, Bickerton Skoda, Sheffield, offered to replace the clutch pack at a reduced price of £885 (incl VAT). This represented a reduction of £307.50. (20-10-2018) The work has now been completed, including a “software upgrade”, and the work guaranteed for two years.
13-11-2018:Report of 2014 Skoda Superb needing new rear ABS reluctor rings. These were fitted under extended warranty.
14-11-2018:Report of EGR of 2012 Skoda Superb 2.0TDI 140 at 61,000 miles. Happened 27 months after NOx emissions update and pledge to fix consequential problems for 2 years had expired so owner asked to pay £1,150 to replace the EGR.
17-12-2018:Report of fault developing in Columbus media centre of April 2015 Skoda Superb in May 2017. The screen would freeze and then it was impossible to use any of the facilities. Owner returned the car to the dealer under warranty and over the next 18 months it was returned a total of 6 times but they were unable to eradicate the fault. In November 2018 owner was told that neither Skoda or the dealer could provide a fix for the car and owner rejected it. The dealer has since offered £2500 compensation provided owner keeps the faulty car unrepaired in full and final settlement. Owner refused this offer. Asked our advice What is to achieve a satisfactory redress ans our advice is to accept the offer.
27-02-2019:Reader had problems with rear door locks of his 2012 Skoda Superb failing to lock. He tried out recommendation of popping the grommet in the lock face of the door and giving the mechanism and servo a squirt with WD 40. This did not work. But he found that behind the grommet was a screw head. By tyrning that screw head one click, the door could be locked from outside but would open from inside.
26-04-2019:Report of glow plug light coming on in 100k mile 2011 Skoda Superb 2.0TDI 170 used for towing. Car then going into limp home mode. Engine had not undergone NOx emissions update.
11-10-2019:2.0TDI PD oil pump drive issue explained by cphaza on audi-sport net<<The problem with the 2.0 PD engine is the drive from the slave balancer shaft to the oil pump, which is a piece of 6 AF hex bar which has inadequate engagement depth with the grooves in the slave shaft. It's the torsional oscillations caused by the balance shafts which destroy the oil pump coupling (the 6mm AF bit of hex) and the chain drive to the balancer shafts before the gear driven systems came out, though these still give problems with the hex key rounding. Think washing machine -> unbalanced load -> keep doing it = new machine. The problem is with lack of concentricity of the drive socket into which the drive rod/hex fits. The drive socket is can be off centre by at least 0.1mm. In engineering terms, this is a massive defect. All the drive sockets in the failed units were off centre, but all the replacement balancer units were dead centre and have not led to a repeat failure. Some replacement balancer units have now done 100k+ miles according to some garages. You will get this problem at some point if you have a 2.0TDi WITH balancer shafts. If your 2.0TDi does NOT have balancer shafts, you will be ok. If you fit the latest balancer shaft/ pump assembly from VAG it will more than likely cure the problem for life as they have made the hex longer and centered it all properly.>>
41 complaints reported since 23-2-2011.
