» Get the best price on a new Skoda

Skoda was one of the 'sensible' stars of the 78th Salon International de l'Automobile Geneve, using the Swiss show to launch its new Superb saloon.

The new Superb is based on the same underpinnings as the current Volkswagen Passat, but that's about were the similarities end.

The new vehicle utilises Skoda's new modular construction techniques (it actually uses both Passat and Octavia componentry) and builds on the styling themes established in the brand's Fabia small car. The result is a car with distinct Skoda looks and its own blend of unique features.

Bordering on a large car in physical dimensions, the Superb is 4838mm long and rides on a wheelbase of 2761mm. By way of comparison, Toyota's Aurion is 4825mm long and has a wheelbase of 2775mm -- the VE Commodore's stats are 4894 and 2915mm respectively. The Skoda is lineball with the Toyota in width and height.

Apart from its sheer size, however, attracting the most attention is the car's twin-door rear boot lid/hatch combination.

As is the case with its smaller Octavia stablemate, the Superb presents a sedan-like silhouette but delivers hatchback versatility. The twin-door allows the user to open a boot-lid section, or the whole hatch depending on what is required to be stowed. The selection is made by operating two small switches on the under edge of the boot lid.

Skoda has patented the idea, which it believes will become a "benchmark in the automotive world".

It claims with the split-fold rear seat backs in position, the boot capacity is 565 litres -- more than 85 litres more than its predecessor and substantially more than all three Aussie-built 'large' cars. With the seats folded the volume increases to 1670 litres.

But Superb is more than a load hauler. Inside the level of finish, and standard and optional equipment, are all a step above Skoda's products to date. There's more leg and knee room, high quality finishes and a generally 'softer' cabin.

Indeed, equipment levels are in keeping with other European 'executive' level models.

Adaptive lighting makes its first appearance on a Volkswagen Group vehicle in the Superb and, across the three trim levels offered in European markets, customers can choose from features such as tyre pressure monitoring, braking and hill-hold assistant as well as parking assistant and a parking steering aid. Of course, there are various trim, stereo and other options ranging from a touch-screen navigation system and hard disc storage through to a top-class audio system. Proven Superb features such as wet umbrella storage (in the inner panel of the left rear door -- we kid you not) are retained, says Skoda.

Skoda Australia boss Matthew Wiesner says the carmaker is still nailing down pricing and specification for Superb's entry into the Australian market.

He can confirm, however, that at least two engine variants will be offered -- the Volkswagen Group's latest 1.8 TSI turbocharged, direct-injected petrol powerplant and the new-generation common-rail 2.0 TDI CR DPF. Claiming 118kW/250Nm and 125kW/350Nm respectively, the engines will be matched to DSG twin-clutch automated sequential manual gearboxes. In the case of the petrol engine, it is VW's latest seven-speed unit.

The TSI and TDI models are expected to arrive Down Under early next year. A V6 FSI all-wheel-drive petrol model will be added to the range late in 2009, Wiesner says.

"We're immensely pleased with the car. Australians like large cars and this is a large car," Wiesner told the Carsales Network.

"It's too early to talk pricing, but the relativities between VW and Skoda pricing should be consistent in this category," Wiesner said hinting that the car would be priced well under Passat.

Volkwagen Group Australia boss, Jutta Dierks, in Geneva for the unveiling of the VW Scirocco and Skoda Superb summed up her view on the new sedan.

"Skoda's always had a friendly face, and Australians are starting to get to know that. Now [with Superb] the brand has a sophisticated face."

The European launch of the new Skoda Superb will take place in June. Look out for our review then.

To comment on this article click here