Certainly not the best known Skodathe Superb nevertheless plays a important role in the rebirth of the Czech brand. In fact, this sedan high end benefited its brand image, helping to definitively separate it from those of cheap, rear-engined Eastern cars. Because technically, the Superb derives from the Volkswagen Passat, distinguishing itself mainly by its wheelbase stretched by 10 cm, benefiting the rear seats.
4.80 m long, the Skoda is therefore equipped with a rather refined front axle (front double wishbone), but makes do with a simple torsion axle at the rear. Fortunately, the engines prove interesting, especially at the top of the offer, where the V6 2.8 l. Contrary to what one might believe, it is not the Volkswagen VR6 but ratheran Audi blocfundamentally different and coded EA835.
In fact, it has two banks of cylinders describing a V open at 90° (like the PRV, fun, right?), benefits from cylinder heads with 5 valves per cylinder and belt distribution, compared to a chain on the VR6. In the Superb, it develops 193 hp and can be connected to two 5 gearboxes, a manual or an automatic. However, the all-wheel drive fitted to the Volkswagen remains prohibited for the Skoda, simple traction. Weighing 1,501 kg, the latter still tops out at 237 km/h and reaches 100 km/h: we have more than enough underfoot.
Marketed in 2002, the Superb surprises with its price/equipment ratiothe V6 a little less. Offered only in Elegance finish, it offers as standard ESP, auto air conditioning (single zone), electric heated seats, stereo with CD changer, cruise control, rain sensor, 17-inch alloy wheels … At €32,440 (or €46,100 today), it is not that competitive, the Passat offering its all-wheel drive for only €1,000 extra. Consequently, the Superb V6 will remain rare in France.
In 2006, it benefited from a slight restyling which does not benefit the mechanics. On the other hand, the equipment gets rich while prices remain stables. In Prague, the Superb adds bi-xenon projectors, leather and GPS, while the Laurin&Klement, €2,000 more expensive, completes the equipment of the sunroof, or even the television function on the GPS. In 2008, the first generation Superb disappeared, replaced by a new model, more original in terms of its bodywork.
How much does it cost?
From €3,000we found a Superb V6 in good condition with around 200,000 km, which remains relatively moderate for this model. At €5,000, you can find a restyled example that lasts around a hundred thousand kilometers, while for a car with less than 70,000 km (extremely rare), you will pay €7,000.
Which version to choose?
You might as well opt for a restyled one, because of its enhanced equipment, especially in Laurin&Klement. In addition, it will benefit from a vignette Crit’air 2so can circulate everywhere.
Les versions collector
All, if they remain in perfect original condition and do not exceed 50,000 km. There are almost none!
What to watch for?
Good surprise, the Superb V6 is only equipped with proven mechanical elements, it turns out to be remarkably reliable. Engine and transmissions can endure hundreds of thousands of km without serious damage, provided they benefit from serious maintenance. Regular oil changes with quality oil (including manual and automatic gearboxes), and changing the timing belt (with the water pump) before 120,000 km.
Obviously, this has a certain cost, but not as high as you imagine: less than €1,000. At high mileage, water leaks and the condition of the various engine sensors will be monitored. For its part, the interior ages very well, even if some electronic bugs can manifest. Good results.
On the road
On board, we find a dashboard very well donevery reminiscent of that of the Passat. But in the back, the legroom is revealed downright royal ! Well installed in a comfortable seat, you benefit from an impeccable driving position and wake up the V6. This one sounds very pleasant, more hoarse than a VR6, but flattering all the same.
This melody, combined with an impressive flexibility and total sweetness, enhances the driving experience : no need to drive fast to experience pleasure. However, the Superb 2.8 allows good performance. If the automatic gearbox, acting in a smooth manner, turns out to be a little slow, we still appreciate the nice responses when the kick-down occurs. The chassis? He’s totally up to the task. More firmly suspended than the equivalent Passat, the Superb proves rigorous and extremely reassuring in a large curve thanks to its extended wheelbase.
Obviously, she is not not at all agilebut it is not made for that. The suspension filters unevenness very well, combined with the successful soundproofing to make this Superb an attractive travel vehicle. Certainly, she swallows on average 11 l/100 kmbut by switching it to E85, we significantly reduce the fuel budget.
The alternative youngtimer
Volkswagen Passat VR6 (1991 – 1996)
No Skoda youngtimer comparable to the Superb V6, we suspect. But if we look within the VW group, we find the Passat B3 (or 35i), appeared in 1988. Deriving from the Golf, in 1991 it welcomed the remarkable VR6 enginea 2.8 l with 174 hp. Light and aerodynamic, the German sedan goes at 224 km/h and reaches 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds. All in a beautiful sound! However, traction is quickly lacking, this VR6 remaining a simple traction unit.
In 1993, the Passat benefited from a major restyling (and became B4) and on this occasion, the 6-cylinder increased to 2.9 l for 190 hp. In addition, he tackles a all-wheel drive which solves motor skills problems. The B4 was replaced in 1996 by a new generation of Passat derived from the Audi A4… and foreshadowing the Superb. The VR6 is unearthed from €8,000.
Skoda Superb V6 (2002), la fiche technique
- Engine: 6-cylinder V-shaped, 2,771 cc
- Food: injection
- Suspension: struts, coil springs, double wishbones, anti-roll bar (Front), torsion axle, coil springs, anti-roll bar (R)
- Transmission: manual or automatic 5 gearbox, traction
- Power: 193 hp at 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 280 Nm at 3,200 rpm
- Poids : 1 501 kg
- Maximum speed: 237 km/h (manufacturer data)
- 0 to 100 km/h: 8 seconds (manufacturer data)
> To find ads for Skoda Superb petrol, go to the La Centrale website
