The original Skoda Superb pushed Skoda further upmarket than it had ever been before, and while it was a great car, buyers didn’t really latch onto its brilliance. So when the second take on the formula was launched in 2008, Skoda had to come up with something really special to be noticed – and that’s exactly what it did. This time round there was a novel tailgate arrangement, more space and equipment than before plus a great range of engines. You can now buy one of these brilliant cars for peanuts, making it one of the biggest – in every sense – bargains around.

Key dates

9/08: The Skoda Superb Mk2 arrives with 1.4 TSI, 1.8 TSI or 3.6 V6 petrol engines, or 1.9 TDI (Greenline) and 2.0 TDI diesels, the latter in 140bhp or 170bhp guises. The 1.8 TSI, 2.0 TDI 170 and 3.6 V6 engines are offered with 4WD.

2/10: A Superb estate appears, with the same engine options, and the 2.0 TDI 140 engine gets common rail fuel injection to make it smoother, more refined and more frugal than the previous PD unit. Later in the year the Greenline gets a 1.6 TDI engine.

5/11: The high-value SE Plus trim joins the range.

6/13: A facelifted Superb brings an overhauled interior, reduced emissions and a refreshed exterior.

2/14: The Superb Outdoor 2.0 TDi brings off-road styling and optional four-wheel drive.

Checklist

The badges can corrode and look tatty after just a year. Dealers have replaced many under warranty.
The leather trim can wear on the driver’s seat bolster. Again, dealers have fixed this under warranty.
If buying a Superb that’s been used for towing, check its suspension, clutch and brakes aren’t worn out.
Cars with the DSG transmission can suffer from jerky changes between first and second; software ‘fixes’ can make things worse.
Superbs with the ‘KESSY’ keyless entry system can suffer from the car refusing to acknowledge the proximity of the key, so it won’t start.
ABS sensors can fail, leading to the ESP, ABS and tyre pressure warning lights coming on. Fixes are cheap though.
All Superbs have alloy wheels which can corrode under the lacquer. Dealers have replaced many wheels under warranty.

We like

Reliability
Practicality
Comfort
Low running costs
Spacious cabin
Affordability
Good engines
Refinement

We don’t like

Low-rent image
So-so dynamics
Awkward styling

Richard Dredge

With so many people overlooking the Superb in the new car market, there aren't that many used examples around. However, there are enough to give you some choice and once you've tried one, you'll be wondering why they're so rare. With great reliability, acres of space inside, generous equipment levels and decent dynamics, the Superb really has got the lot.

Key Dates

4/02: Superb launched with 1.8T, 2.0, 2.8 V6 petrol powerplants or 1.9TDi and 2.5 V6 TDi engines.

7/03: 2.5 V6 TDi now has 160bhp (previously 155bhp).

1/04: Five-speed auto option arrives for 1.8T, 1.9TDi engines

1/06: 105bhp version of 1.9TDi powerplant now offered, plus 2.0TDi engine is now available in 140bhp guise.

7/06: Facelift brings restyled nose, fresh dash, new colours and tweaked tail light design.

Skoda Superb (2002-2007) Checklist

Make sure the water pump was replaced when the cam belt was renewed, or the engine may be wrecked when the pump shaft snaps.
Check leaves haven't collected at the base of the windscreen, blocking the air vent drains. If so, water gets into the interior, causing problems with the electrics and electronics.
Headlamp bulbs can blow with frustrating regularity; check that everything is working.
The air conditioning can play up, but it's often just a question of recharging the system.

We Like

Affordability
Reliability
Space
Equipment
Comfort
Diesel engines
Dealers

We Don't Like

Fixed rear seats
Dowdy image
No estate option

Superb

Skoda Superb (2008-2014)