Skoda Superb
The Superb's looks aren't to everyone's tastes, but Skoda's innovative tailgate, which can open as a saloon boot for smaller items or a full-size hatchback for extra practicality, is genuinely useful. If that's not enough, there's a cavernous Estate model too. The interior is spacious, and offers executive car comfort, which is a surprise given how competitive the Superb's prices are. There's a good choice of petrol and diesel engines, and the Superb is actually quite good to drive despite its size. Prices are competitive against rivals like the Ford Mondeo and VW Passat.
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- pros:
- Loads of space
- Bargain price-tag
- Clever dual-opening boot
- cons:
- Some may be put off by the badge
- Conservative styling
- Not exciting to drive
The Superb is an excellent value for money alternative to the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. There's an impressive range of Volkswagen-sourced engines on offer, ranging from small capacity petrol units to a 3.6-litre V6 that offers huge amounts of straight-line speed. All models are extremely practical too, with lots of space on offer and even a special boot-lid which can be opened as a saloon or as a hatchback for larger items.
- pros:
- Class-leading space
- Bargain price-tag
- Cabin build quality
- cons:
- Boot floor isn't flush with load lip
- Conservative styling
- Could be more exciting to drive
The Superb Estate actually looks better than its hatchback sibling and offers much more space. In fact, the Superb has got the largest load area of any car in this segment - which is just one of the reasons we named it Best Estate Car in our 2011 Car of the Year Awards. The interior is spacious too and top-spec Elegance models get full leather upholstery for a really luxurious feel.
