Skoda Superb 1.4 TSI iV review

This roomy and efficient plug-in hybrid car is undoubtably one of the best hatchbacks around today.

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The latest Superb isn’t a car for people who make buying decisions based on 0-62mph times. But it’s no slouch either.

The best compromise is likely to be what is being tested here: the 1.4 TSI iV 218ps DSG. It’s a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and has got sufficient performance while retaining the efficiency needed to ease the burden on your wallet.

It’ll get you to 62mph in 7.7 seconds and top out at 138mph. The smooth six-speed automatic gearbox makes life easier, too. Perhaps more impressively, the iV has got a weighted combined mpg of 201.8-148.7 – and you can sail along silently on pure electricity for around 35 miles if you want to.

This is great for urban driving, but on longer journeys in hybrid-assisted petrol mode, you won’t need to look at a fuel pump for well over 500 miles.

Put it this way, I made two return trips from the Midlands to Norfolk, and still had over 100 miles to play with. If I were thinking about buying a car, I’d purchase the Superb iV for this reason alone.

Space and practicality

The hatchback model is a decent enough place to be in for hours on the road, boasting a classy and well-equipped interior. However, at speed, there’s a bit of wind roar, and the road noise seems to be proportional to the size of the wheels.

Indeed, the 19-inch “Supernova” alloys, fitted as an option to my test car, should be avoided if you want to maximise comfort. The steering is accurate, though it lacks any real feel – certainly, there are more fun cars to drive.

The Superb’s party piece is space and practicality. Room for legs and heads is immense in the front and rear. What’s more, boot space is 625 litres, expanding to 1,760 litres if you put the rear seats down.

The Skoda Superb is genuinely one of the best hatchbacks out there. Unless you’re adamant you must have a premium badge, you really should be considering this car.