Skoda has just unveiled the all-new Superb in Prague that is expected to launch globally in June 2015. The new third-generation Superb is based on VW's MQB platform architecture that it shares with cars like the new Passat, Octavia and Golf, and gets well-engineered mechanical bits. It is around 75kgs lighter despite an 80mm longer wheelbase than the second-generation car, and gets more kit like a rear-view camera and an electric parking brake. Even the boot capacity has increased to 625 litres, which is 30 litres more than the outgoing model. It gets powered by new engines which Skoda claims, offers 20 percent more power along with 30 percent lower fuel consumption.
Compared to the current car, the new Superb sports a smoother flowing profile, and looks more grown up. Up front, there's Skoda's new two part, butterfly-shaped grille and a set of larger headlamps with a distinct hollowed out section below them. The nose is more aggressive, while the sharp cutlines on the bonnet and fenders and the tastefully flared wheel arches enhance its sporty appeal. The curved rear section and the semi fast-back-like raked rear windscreen add coupe-like sportiness.
The new Superb gets powered by direct-injection, turbocharged engines which includes five TSI petrol and three TDI common-rail diesels, for the global market. All powertrains get stop-start engine technology and brake energy recover as a standard feature. The maximum power output of the petrol engines range from 125bhp to 280bhp while the diesel range is good for 120bhp to 190bhp. Except for the entry-level petrol engine, all others will be available with dual-clutch transmission.
However, in India, Skoda is likely to launch the third-generation Superb with a 2.0-litre diesel motor tuned for around 170bhp or the 1.8-litre 177bhp turbo-petrol engine. The current automatic DSG gearboxes are expected to be carried forward.
The Superb has always boasted of very generous cabin space and Skoda claims, the third-generation car offers even more room. There’s 39mm more elbowroom and headroom at the front, while the legroom at the rear is a generous 157mm. The rear elbowroom has increased by 69mm, while the headroom measures 980mm. The third-generation Superb is the first to get Dynamic Chassis Control including Drive Mode Select, three-zone conditioning, an electric tailgate and the latest generation of Park Assist.
For European markets, the new Superb will get Electronic Stability Control, Multi-Collision Brake, Tyre Pressure Monitor and seven airbags as standard. The optional features include Blind Spot Detection System (which assists the driver while changing lanes), Driver Alert (which warns against driver fatigue) and Travel Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition that is being offered for the first time in the Superb. However, it remains to be seen just how many of these features get carried over to Skoda’s Superb line-up for the Indian-market.
Expect Skoda to showcase the new Superb at the Auto Expo 2016 early next year. It will go on sale in the Indian market next year. When launched, expect the new Skoda Superb to be priced around 10-15 percent higher than the outgoing car.