Skoda's Superb iV: A Finessed Part-Time Electrified Ride
Electrically-powered Skoda Superb iV offering flexible power usage
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Skoda's flagship vehicle, the Superb iV, boasts an enhanced plug-in hybrid powertrain, granting it the ability to travel approximately 100 kilometers on electric power alone thanks to a larger battery. This model aims to attract company car drivers, commuters, and family heads, marking an essential step towards Skoda's electric future.
Born in 1934, the Superb is a longstanding model, returning to prominence after a 52-year break under the ownership of Volkswagen. We're now in the sixth generation, with the VW Passat significantly influencing the engine and interior design.
The imminent Superb arrivals propel their technology from the Wolfsburg powerhouse, indicating a significant stride towards Skoda's electrical horizon. Although the Czech Republic already offers successful full-electric vehicles, SUV models, like the Enyaq or Enyaq iV, are forthcoming. The new Superb is not a "true" electric car, but rather a part-time electrified vehicle, integrating a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an 85-kW electric motor.
A Generous Rear Compartment
Combining their energies, they generate 150 kW/204 PS. However, the battery now provides 27.5 kWh of power, more than double the previous model, allowing the gasoline engine to leave the fuel tank untouched for over 100 kilometers in many cases. This range is practical for daily commuters who travel between suburban homes and weekday offices, with a charging station visit sufficient for most.
Jointly developed with the new VW Passat generation, the Superb saves on development expenses. Moreover, the German top-selling car is only available as an estate. The Superb offers an even more spacious interior, a traditional strength of previous Superb models. Measuring 4.90 meters, it's 4 cm longer than its predecessor. The generous wheelbase of 2.85 meters impresses passengers, particularly those in the rear.
A thoughtful design decision sure to catch VW estate fans' eyes. VW customers also reap the benefits of cooperation with the Eastern European subsidiary. While the previous Passat was significantly shorter than the Superb, their dimensions are now aligned, simplifying factory production in Bratislava, Slovakia.
Say Goodbye to the Gear Lever, Welcome Fresh Air
Back to the Superb and the sedan, one of the few remaining on the European market. The length increase suits the model's optics well, despite minimal aesthetic changes. The new Superb is easily identifiable as a typical Skoda, characterized by slimmer main headlights and taillights, boasting a colored crystalline element called Crystallinium. This detail enhances the hexagonal matrix modules of the LED matrix headlights, creating a three-dimensional effect.
Innovative features include an expanded range of assistance systems, now flagship-level. In addition to the known systems, curve and intersection assistants have been added, as well as a front radar featuring emergency braking capabilities and providing anticipatory cyclist protection. Up to ten airbags are on board, including a central airbag for added safety.
Former governing mechanisms, like the shift lever, have been supplanted. The previous cumbersome automatic selector lever has moved to the right side of the steering wheel as a small control unit. This modification provides more space in front. After some getting used to, future customers will find this arrangement quite "superb" (French for magnificent). Behind the steering wheel, a 10.25-inch display dispenses the necessary data. The large central screen has grown to 13 inches.
The Interplay of Engines
The further developed adaptive suspension is another standout feature. It employs two independently controlled valves per shock absorber to regulate compression and rebound separately, aiming to make the dampers react more swiftly and smooth out everything. This feature, however, comes at an added cost.
Skoda has finely tuned the Enyaq, its flagship electric vehicle. The 4.90-meter vehicle is inconspicuous in everyday life, relying on its precise steering and excellent brakes in emergencies. The new Superb is much the same, although it benefits from the supportive cooperation of the combustion engine and electric motor, running quietly and smoothly without requiring driver intervention. Drivers can, however, force the system to always be electric or maintain the electric charge level. This is helpful when the destination is within an environmental zone.
In conclusion, the Skoda entices as a modern and driver-friendly sedan, potentially luring some fans away from the SUV craze. The sedan endures, and if you remember to charge it, you can even drive completely climate-neutrally in the new Superb.
The Superb iV, a significant step towards Skoda's electric future, is a part-time electrified vehicle that integrates a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an 85-kW electric motor, making it ideal for daily commuters and family heads who seek a combination of lifestyle, technology, and sustainable power in cars, such as electric-vehicles and cars like the Superb iV. The generous rear compartment of the Superb offers a spacious interior, appealing to VW estate fans, ensuring a comfortable journey for both passengers and drivers.
