A look back at 90 years of Skoda Superb

First Skoda Superb models

The first Skoda Superb models entered the market between 1934 and 1949. More than 50 years later (in 2001), Skoda launched the first modern Superb, marking the brand’s return to the large middle class. For the first time, the next generation from 2008 also came as a Combi. The current generation, which debuted in 2015, is based on the MQB platform. In 2019, the Superb iV appeared with powerful and efficient plug-in hybrid technology. Now the countdown has begun: the new Superb will be unveiled next fall.

Already quite innovative

Even before the Superb went into production in 1934, Skoda had produced several premium models. But the Superb was different and more innovative. Thus, he used the then-new 12V system. Its undercarriage was also progressive. Instead of a traditional ladder chassis, it had a backbone chassis with a central section that transitioned into two separate beams in the front. This made it possible to house the drive shaft in the chassis tunnel as well as to use an independent suspension, which raised comfort to a high level. Also, the Superb was the first Skoda with a single hydraulic brake system for optimal braking of each wheel.

Hispano Suiza

Unlike predecessors such as the luxury Hispano Suiza, the Superb was developed entirely by Skoda itself. The bodywork consisted of a wooden body with sheet metal panels. This set-up allowed Skoda to produce a wide range of versions. During the production period of some 13 years, five versions appeared for passenger transport and three for military use.

Superb 4000

On the engine front, there was a choice of engines with side valves or an overhead camshaft (from 1938). Cylinder volumes ranged from 2,492 to 3,991 cm3. With the exception of the powerful Superb 4000 with V8, the engines were all six-cylinder. One of the few remaining Superb 4000 models is on display at the Škoda Museum in Mladá Boleslav. Between 1934 and 1949, Skoda produced about 900 passenger car versions and some 1,600 military versions.

Return of the top model (2001-2008)

In 2001, Skoda celebrated 10 years as part of the Volkswagen Group. In the same year, the Fabia debuted and Skoda introduced the Simply Clever concept of practical innovations. The highlight, however, was the Superb’s return to the range after 50 years. The new flagship model further strengthened the brand image. The first modern Superb stood out for its huge range of space and an engine range that offered a choice of gasoline and diesel versions: from a four-cylinder 1.8 turbo to a 142 kW/193 hp 2.8 V6. The Superb was the first Skoda to be available with bi-xenon headlights, the Tiptronic automatic transmission, Coming Home lights and Brake Assist. The multilink front axle and longitudinal engines were also new to Skoda. In 2006, the Superb received a facelift. With that, the distinctive C-shaped taillights made their appearance.

Second-generation Skoda Superb

The second generation of the modern Superb models was introduced in 2008. The sedan had a distinctive tailgate, which could be opened in two ways – as in a sedan with just the lid or as a hatchback with the rear window added as well. Also, for the first time, the Superb was now available as an even more spacious Combi. The top model featured a very powerful 3.6 V6 and all-wheel drive. In 2013, Skoda unveiled the facelifted version of this generation.

Third generation also as plug-in hybrid

In 2015, the third-generation Superb celebrated its world premiere in Prague. The practical Combi followed a few months later. Because this new flagship model is based on the MQB platform, the latest technologies could be applied, such as the DCC Adaptive Chassis, three-zone climate control and assistance systems such as Traffic jam Assist, Emergency Assist, AAC (Adaptive Cruise control) and Travel Assist. There was also plenty of room for new Simply Clever features such as the virtual pedal to open the tailgate, a 230V outlet in the rear and umbrellas in both front doors. The 2019 facelift added such novelties as Matrix-LED lighting, Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control and KESSY Keyless Access for all doors, but most important was the arrival of the Superb iV with efficient plug-in hybrid technology. 

Skoda has produced more than 1,550,000 Superb models since 2011, including more than 780,000 of the third generation. And the clock is ticking: the fourth generation, which debuts this fall as a Hatchback and Combi, raises the bar even higher in every respect.