Sometimes the search for hidden meaning turns out to be a thankless task. Indeed, why would a Czech brand release a deliberately more expensive Superb Combi estate if the lineup already has an excellent hatchback with a sedan-like profile and the amusing TwinDoor system? After all, it is identical to the new model in almost everything except the trunk, which is 10% smaller. For the sake of competition in the class? Or to give us a wider choice?
As is known from scientific research, the ant has the largest brain relative to body size among all living creatures. But the most spacious trunk in D-class estates belongs to the Skoda Superb Combi. And this is confirmed not by theory, but by the practice of packing suitcases.
The loading opening, wide and low-set, easily swallows, like a black hole, many items. Several bulky suitcases, paintings, baskets, and other boxes all fly inside with a whistle, reminiscent of the plot of Marshak's "Baggage". And this is not at all a figment of the imagination: the standard 633 liters really can hold so much stuff that it is hard to imagine. If you fold down the rear seats, a flat area 1916 mm long is formed, and the volume grows to 1865 liters — theoretically, you could even load that very "sofa" from the poem into it. True, this time nothing like that was at hand, but the possibility was definitely there.
If even this seems too little, roof rails, which are already included in the base trim, will come to the rescue. All that remains is to figure out how to properly and safely pack the items.
There are no problems with this either. To place and secure the luggage, various devices are provided: aluminum rails, hooks, nets — all this will prevent things from sliding around the cabin. There are also truly useful solutions. For example, a false floor that extends beyond the bumper, making loading easier and preventing clothes from getting dirty. Or a horizontal roller blind that automatically folds when the power-operated tailgate is opened. True, such options will most likely only be available for an extra charge or in rich trim levels.
A similar fate awaits other pleasant "extras": an umbrella in the niche of the rear left door, a panoramic roof, footrests for rear passengers, navigation, and the KESSY keyless entry system, which, by the way, debuted on this very model. But already in the base you get incredible space in the back (you can fully stretch your legs), comfortable seats with bright lateral support in the front and profiled ones in the back, thoughtful ergonomics, and high-quality finishing. The suspension is soft but composed: it only slightly indicates small irregularities, and it skillfully copes with more serious obstacles and body rolls. And the appearance of the Superb Combi is pleasing to the eye.
Subjectively, the estate looks more harmonious than the Superb "sedback", whose rear seems heavy and short due to the wide rear pillars. The Combi also has improved rear visibility. The car looks more assembled, with a certain "leanness" and dynamism, and the model's strict image has acquired sporty notes. Overall, the Combi looks less formal, but still expensive and, surprisingly for this brand, prestigious.
In handling, there is also a spirit of excitement, but in measured doses, in the traditions of Volkswagen. No "suitcase" clumsiness: the estate easily takes corners, confidently holds the trajectory, and only slightly rolls. Of course, there is no talk of reckless driving, but the behavior of this massive (over 1500 kg) car cannot be called bland either. Everything is Volkswagen-like: precise, controlled, safe, with rapid ESP intervention. The steering wheel with electromechanical power steering is quite soft and comfortable during calm driving, but with increasing speed it becomes stiffer and gains a pleasant sharpness. This is enough not to irritate the driver with nervous "twitching" during maneuvers and to provide an adequate response to actions.
The engine range includes three petrol and two diesel units. Diesels in our market, for known reasons, are unlikely to be in great demand. Therefore, during the test in Italy, they decided to take two extremes: the quietest and the most powerful petrol versions. Irrationality won. The estate with the 260-horsepower V6 FSI with a volume of 3.6 liters, 6-speed DSG, and all-wheel drive pleased with its dynamics, lively responses to the gas pedal, and quite acceptable fuel consumption — they promise just over 10 liters per hundred in the combined cycle. The version with the 1.4 TSI engine producing 125 hp and a 6-speed manual is predictably more modest: such a Superb Combi spends less than 7 liters of 95-octane gasoline per 100 km. The other parameters are also modest. Turbocharging and TSI technologies cannot compensate for the noticeable lack of power. Sluggish responses to the accelerator are unlikely to please an active driver. And after a series of long overtakes, even fuel efficiency no longer seems like such a plus.
Love it — don't love it
For an extra charge, the tailgate can be equipped with a power drive. Convenient
Among other devices in the trunk, there is even a removable flashlight. Bright
The huge amount of free space in the back adds a lot of comfort to passengers. Spacious
Driving
The solidity and dynamism noticeable in the car's appearance are fully manifested while driving.
Interior
You can't call the Skoda Superb spacious — it's simply huge inside!
Comfort
Behind the wheel, you don't get the feeling that you are a hired driver, and in the back seat you feel like an important person.
Safety
Safety is high — both passive and active.
Price
Not determined.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Huge interior and trunk, high-quality finishing materials, good handling.
- Technologically, the model is less original than the regular Superb.
Technical specifications
Make and model — Skoda Superb Combi V6
Dimensions — 4838x1817x1510 mm
Engine — petrol, 3597 cm3, 260 hp/6000 rpm
Transmission — 6-speed, DSG
Dynamics — max 247 km/h; 6.6 s to 100 km/h
Competitors — Citroen C5, Toyota Avensis, Renault Laguna
Our opinion
With the arrival of the Skoda Superb Combi, the Czech brand completes its line of estates in the model range. This truly large, spacious car can bring driving joy to the driver and provide comfort to passengers. And it clearly has something to counter its competitors with.