The VW Group’s radical philosophy of platform and driveline sharing took another step forward with the launch of Skoda’s Superb. Combining the abilities of a limo with a budget badge, the Superb is probably the ultimate bargain.

“Almost five metres long, the Superb is very capable as well as incredible value.”

SKODA SUPERB 2.8 V6
List price (ex-showroom, Mumbai) Rs 24 lakh (est)
Top speed 230 kph
0-100kph 11.42 sec
Kpl 6.1 (city) ,
7.0 (highway)
For Comfort, interior space, build and value
Against Low speed ride, lacks snob value

here is no doubt that Skoda, the Volkswagen Group's value brand, is perfect as far as the Indian customer and market are concerned. One that combines a low cost of design and manufacture with high- tech components and parts from VW's formidable range of platforms and drive-trains, it is difficult for any manufacturer to provide more value.
The Superb, powered by a 2.8-litre V6 motor, is ample proof of this. A well specified luxury car that has the size, build, performance and luxury to take well entrenched competition head-on, the Superb is sure to rough up the tranquility that currently exists in the luxury carmarket.
But value, important as it is, is not the only criterion. To be a success, a luxury car that will set you back more than 20 large ones must be convincing as a status symbol. It must have jaw-dropping presence, have the ability to demand respect as well as the occasional ooh and ahh. It must deliver massive comfort, have the ability to pamper and spoil its occupants, cosseting them in a high-
quality cabin surrounded by unnecessary luxuries. Furthermore, it must have acres of space as well as the ability to sprint.
A lot to ask for, but that is precisely what allows one to justify the amount you spend on the car. The question is: can the Superb manage all of this?