Skoda Superb hatchback

Drive

The Superb has plenty of grip, precise steering and a comfortable ride, but if you want a fun drive, cars like the Mazda6 and Ford Mondeo are more exciting. All the engines provide plenty of pace, especially the 3.5-litre V6, which can sprint from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds. The optional seven-speed semi-automatic gearbox is incredibly smooth and can change gears without the driver even noticing. Alternatively, the six-speed manual is easy to use.

Comfort

Even on the bumpiest of roads, the Skoda Superb's excellent suspension copes well and makes it one of the most relaxing and comfortable cruisers you can buy. Even better is the quiet cabin, which is well isolated from wind, road and engine noise, even at motorway speeds. The diesel engines are very quiet, but the petrol engines are the choice for maximum refinement.

Reliability

Impeccable build quality and top-grade materials give the Superb a real quality feel in the cabin. Buyers won’t be disappointed when it comes to dealer service or reliability either, as Skoda consistently performs well in owner surveys. Thanks to its impressive airbag count and standard electronic stability control, the Superb also managed to achieve a full five stars in the Euro NCAP crash safety test.

Practicality

The back seats are incredibly spacious, allowing three adults to sit with plenty of head, shoulder and legroom. The 565-litre boot will be enough for most people's needs, but on the occasion more is needed, the rear seats can be folded to liberate an incredible 1,670 litres of space. Plus, there's the option to open the bootlid as a hatch or a saloon.

Value for money

Base S models are incredibly cheap, but you’ll find that they are also well equipped. Electric windows front and rear, air- conditioning and 16-inch alloy wheels all come as standard. SE models add suede-effect Alcantara fabric on the seats as well as cruise control and dual-zone air-conditioning. SE Plus adds sat-nav to this, while top-spec Elegance models are still cheap compared to rivals, but nearly everything is standard, including leather upholstery and xenon lights.

Running costs

Skodas hold their value incredibly well, so buying a Superb is a very smart choice. All engines in the range offer a good blend of performance and low running costs depending on your needs. The 140bhp 2.0 TDI diesel is the best choice for inexpensive motoring, boasting 52.3mpg and emissions of 143g/km, which means £125 road tax. Even the 1.4-litre petrol engine manages 41.5mpg and provides enough straight-line speed for most buyers.