SecondHandSense:AS A committed Skoda fan, it's been a long time since I fast-forwarded on the Skoda jokes and prejudices. And most people – when you mention value for money, Volkswagen group standards and a great reputation for reliability – will take on board what you say, at least as far as smaller Skoda models are concerned. But it's a different story when it comes to the luxury Superb.
Could Skoda really produce a car that in most respects rivals a Ford Mondeo but feels like a BMW 5 Series? The answer is almost definitely yes.
The Superb was launched seven years ago to much scepticism; despite an impressive debut, it remained a victim of what is best described as “badge appeal”. Most executive buyers will opt for the most basic Ford, BMW or Mercedes rather than be declared budget-conscious.
These days, of course, it’s a different story and, prejudice or no, the Superb presents itself as a great second-hand buy. Its chief appeal is comfort, offering plenty of space. It is well fitted out with quality materials – better than its smaller siblings – has an air of quality, and even the most basic model has plenty of standard equipment, including six airbags, air conditioning and traction control.
The long wheelbase does impinge on handling but ride is comfortable. The car is built on a lengthened VW Passat platform and is almost as good in most respects. Extra touches such as soft interior lighting give it an impressive finish. Some models even have an umbrella holder.
There is one big disadvantage in the older model: It is a saloon, in every sense. So while you have an amazingly big boot, rear seats are fixed and don’t allow folding. The best option is the 130hp with well proven VW 1.9 turbo diesel. Beware of high-mileage cars, which can have an awful lot of wear and tear, and look for cars with lower mileage and the highest specification you can get: bi-Xenon headlights, leather and cruise control.
The car has a maximum five stars in the EuroNCAP progr-amme, and excellent reliability.
A 2006 car with 1.9 diesel engine and 76,000km is on offer for €14,995. A 2007 with the same engine and just 41,000km is €17,500. Judicious bargaining should get you a good deal.
STAR RATING: 7/10