Czech firm kicks off electrification programme with hybrid version of revamped flagship model
23 May 2019

Skoda has revealed the revised version of its flagship Superb saloon and estate, which will be offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time.

The hybrid will be launched as the Superb iV in recognition of Skoda’s new sub-brand that will be used for its bold electrification plans. The firm launched the Superb alongside the pure-electric Citigo-e at an event in Slovakia.

The Superb iV features a 154bhp, 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine mated to a 114bhp electric motor, which sends drive to the front wheels through a six-speed DSG transmission. The peak system output is 220bhp, with 295lb ft of torque.

The car will be capable of completing 34 miles of pure electric running, identical to the similar Volkswagen Passat GTE. Skoda has yet to release performance figues, but insiders suggest they will closely match the Passat, hinting at a 0-62mph time of around 7.4secs for the saloon.

The battery pack is located under the floor and ahead of the rear axle, which means a slight reduction in boot capacity – 485 litres for the saloon and 510 litres for the estate, compared to 625 and 660 for the non-hybrid versions respectively.

Beyond the well-hidden charging port integrated into the front grille there will be little to give away the PHEV's part-electric status. The infotainment system can display information on battery status and electric range and additional controls for the various powertrain modes. It will also be possible to programme the PHEV's aircon to cool the cabin before the car is needed.  

The existing Superb powertrains will be carried over for the facelifted model, with a new 2.0-litre 190bhp TSI unit added. The range-topper will continue to be a 280bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged version.

Our Verdict

Skoda Superb Estate

Skoda plots to grab a bigger slice of the pie with its likeable and hugely practical Superb range

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The redesigned Superb has gained a new-look grille, with added chrome trim between the LED rear lights. There is also a new front bumper, which stretches the length of the car by 8mm to 4869mm.

The car is the first Skoda to gain full LED Matrix headlights as an option, and new driver assistance features include predictive cruise control.

Sales for the facelifted car begin in September with the plug-in hybrid version following earlier next year. Pricing has yet to be revealed, but Skoda promises the PHEV will be highly competitive in its increasingly crowded part of the market, and is anticipated to constitute up to 20% of sales in the UK.  

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Comments
1

23 May 2019

Wasn't that replaced with the 1.5 several years ago?

typos1 - Just can’t respect opinion

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