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By Jonathan Crouch

This improved version of the third generation Skoda Superb seems a very complete product, looking sharp and tilting at some big names. It's well equipped too. Jonathan Crouch reports.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 52

Skoda's Superb features a smart suit, a slick chassis and strong engines in this improved version of the MK3 model. Hatch and estate versions of this enhanced design look sharper inside and out and the brand now offers a Plug-in hybrid option for the first time too. Plus the pricing remains sensible.

Backgroundword count: 164

If there's one thing that's defined the Skoda Superb, it's that every time it's been launched, the Czech company seems to think it'll enjoy greater success if it's pushed further upmarket. Given that the vast majority of Skoda's profits comes from small cars, that seems quite a leap of faith, but look at the way the market works and you'll start to see the logic. The Superb's rivals, amongst which you can count cars like the Ford Mondeo, the Vauxhall Insignia and the Mazda6, have done likewise. With each successive iteration they get bigger and more polished. To not follow would leave the Superb battling over some very meagre scraps. If you like the sound of a Skoda with real presence, you're probably going to love the MK3 model Superb. The exterior is a whole lot more assertive, with a clean, design-led approach. It's a sign of a more confident Skoda and that's always been a good sign when it comes to their products.

Driving Experienceword count: 258

As you'd expect, this updated Superb has been fitted out with the latest suite of Volkswagen Group engines and these are all mated to DSG auto transmission, demand for manual gearboxes in cars of this size having petered out somewhat. The petrol range kicks off with a 150PS 1.5-litre TSI EVO unit. Next up is a revised version of the 2.0-litre TSI powerplant with 190PS; and the top petrol powerplant is a 2.0-litre TSI engine developing 280PS, which comes with all-wheel drive as standard. In the diesel line-up, the starting point is a 122PS version of the usual 2.0 TDI unit. Next up is a heavily revised 2.0-litre 150PS diesel unit now badged 'TDI EVO'. Beyond that is the 2.0 TDI 200PS unit, which can optionally be ordered with all-wheel drive. You can also have a Superb iV plug-in hybrid model, powered by a 1.4 TSI petrol engine that delivers 156PS and is boosted by an 85kW electric motor. The combined maximum power output of the two power sources is 218PS - which promises to deliver exceptional performance along with significantly reduced fuel consumption and emissions. On the move, as ever in a Superb, the ride and refinement are exemplary and the dynamic demeanour of the car is sharper than you might expect, thanks to its light, stiff MQB chassis. As a result, the car feels surprisingly agile through bends you'll be able to attack with reasonable gusto thanks to feelsome steering and a standard XDS+ Electronic Differential Lock that reduces understeer and improves stability as you turn.

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