Skoda Enyaq Coupé Review
Read Caroline's Skoda Enyaq Coupé review for everything you need to know about buying Skoda's new stylish electric SUV in Ireland.
The Skoda Enyaq has been one of the Skoda brand's most high profile new cars of recent years. The all-electric SUV has helped Skoda take another leap forward in design and quality, along with some very capable electric underpinnings and battery technology.
Now Skoda Ireland has expanded the range with the arrival of the new Enyaq Coupé, an even more stylish and desirable SUV-coupé based on the Enyaq.
It goes on sale in Ireland priced from €51,329 on the road with two batteries available, single and dual motor versions, and up to 552 kilometres of range (WLTP) depending on model.
What's so special about the Skoda Enyaq Coupé?
The Enyaq Coupé shares much with the Enyaq SUV but packages it all in a sportier and sleeker package. The difference is the roof slopes down sharply at the rear, giving more 'coupé-like' grace to the Enyaq's design.
It is a very handsome car and shows the trajectory that Skoda has taken as a brand to make cars with real style and presence. The test car featured the Advanced Pack (€9,153), which adds many desirable features and the 'Crystal face' illuminated grille. Fancy!
Standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels, reversing camera and a panoramic sunroof.
There's also a Sportline version available with 20-inch alloy wheels, sportier bumpers, and black detailing.
The top of the range Enyaq Coupé RS is the most powerful of the range with 295hp, the first ever all-electric Skoda RS model.
But it's the interior of the Enyaq Coupé that really helps this car to command attention.
Inside the Enyaq Coupé
Firstly the Enyaq Coupé is huge inside. Skodas are notorious for space and practicality!
The standard fit panoramic sunroof gives a light and pleasant atmosphere for all passengers. The footwells in the back are very large and this SUV should work well as a family car.
There's no real compromise for that coupé-style sloping roofline. Boot volume only goes down about 15 litres compared to the standard Enyaq. At 570 litres, it's huge! A powered tailgate is available.
Up front, the Enyaq Coupé offers a great cabin experience. The quality is very good with lots of soft touch panels and a sincere lack of scratchy plastic. It's minimalist in its design but wraps around the driver nicely all the same.
A 13-inch touchscreen comes as standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Like many Volkswagen Group products, the ventilation controls are operated from the screen. It looks good but a few extra switches and dials would be a useful addition.
But generally this is a magnificent cabin.
Driving the Enyaq Coupé iV 80
The range kicks off with the Enyaq Coupé iV 60 (from €51,329 OTR) that uses a 58kWh battery to give a range of up to 403 kilometres (WLTP). The power output is 180hp.
For more power (204hp) and range (552 kilometres WLTP), there's the iV 80 with a 77kWh battery (from €62,685). There's also a dual motor version available, the iV 80X 4x4.
I was driving the iV 80 single motor, rear wheel drive and it impresses for its range and cruising ability with good refinement making for a pleasant drive. It is quite firmly sprung so picks up little imperfections in the road surface and never really entirely settles down beneath you.
It has been designed to be sportier than the Enyaq but that's not really where it excels. The handling and steering is just fine for a large electric SUV, but it feels too heavy for any real enthusiastic driving. It's plenty powerful though with smooth, swift acceleration.
It also seems quite efficient for its size, averaging about 18 kWh per 100 kilometres during my test drive. It's easy to achieve over 400 kilometres on a full battery charge.
The iV 80 has DC fast charging up to 135kW. AC charging is possible up to 11kW.
Did you like it?
The Skoda Enyaq Coupé brings exclusive style and even more desirability to the Enyaq range. It also shares many of the Enyaq's great qualities - a nice cabin, spacious interior, big boot, and excellent range and battery technology.
Ride comfort is not perfect in the Enqaq Coupé but if it's style and exclusivity you're after wrapped up in the familiarity of a Skoda - then it has to be the Enyaq Coupé!
Model tested: Skoda Enyaq Coupé iV 80
Price: €62,685 OTR
Battery: 77kWh
Range: 552 km (WLTP)
Power: 204hp
Top speed: 160 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 8.5 seconds
Motor Tax: €120 per year
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
ŠKODA Karoq Pricing For Ireland (2022)
The ŠKODA Karoq has been updated for 2022 and is available to order now.
ŠKODA Ireland has confirmed that the updated Karoq will go on sale priced from €33,750.
What's new for the Karoq in 2022?
Updates for 2022 include a more refined design language, sustainable materials, new technologies and a choice of efficient latest-generation EVO engines. It will be available in three trim lines - Ambition, Style and Sportline.
Since the launch of the Karoq in Ireland in 2017, more than 5,000 have found homes here. It was the brand's third most delivered model in the ŠKODA range in Ireland in 2021, after the Octavia and the Kodiaq.
New design details include a wider, now hexagonal ŠKODA grille, restyled front and rear aprons, as well as slimmer and sharper LED headlights and tail lights. The daytime running lights are now split in two. For the first time, the Karoq can be equipped with full-LED Matrix headlights - standard on Style and Sportline models.
Aerodynamics has been improved by more than 9% by new alloy wheels with Aero inserts, a longer rear spoiler, side finlets on the rear window and the now covered underbody.
There's also an increased range of assistance and safety systems.
Inside there is new decorative trim and upholstery options, which can be made from sustainable materials if selected. For example, in the Eco pack, the seat covers are partly made from recycled plastic juice bottles.
Optional extras to increase comfort include enhanced LED ambient lighting (standard on Style and Sportline models), which now also illuminates the rear door trim in one of ten colours, and the electrically adjustable front-passenger seat including a memory function.
Engines include one diesel and two petrol options, delivering power outputs ranging from 110bhp to 150bhp.
Pricing for the ŠKODA Karoq in Ireland
| Model | Fuel | Transmission | Gears | AMBITION | STYLE | SPORTLINE | |
| 1.0TSI 110hp | Petrol | Manual | 6-speed | €33,750 | €37,750 | --- | |
| 1.5TSI 150hp | Petrol | Manual | 6-speed | €35,975 | €41,495 | €43,770 | |
| 1.5TSI 150hp DSG | Petrol | DSG (Auto) | 7-speed | €38,360 | €43,585 | €45,855 | |
| 2.0TDI 115hp | Diesel | Manual | 6-speed | €34,900 | €39,420 | €41,225 | |
| 2.0TDI 115hp DSG | Diesel | DSG (Auto) | 7-speed | €38,040 | €41,875 | €43,695 | |
| 2.0TDI 150hp | Diesel | Manual | 6-speed | €36,590 | €40,975 | €43,130 | |
| 2.0TDI 150hp DSG 4X4 | Diesel | DSG (Auto) | 7-speed | --- | €50,140 | --- |
Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo Debuts
Skoda has taken the covers off the new Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo. The new edition completes the fourth-generation Fabia range, which went on sale in Ireland earlier this year.
The Fabia Monte Carlo model commemorates the brand’s victories at the legendary rally and complements the Active, Ambition and Style trim levels.
Built on Volkswagen Group’s MQB-A0 modular platform, the Fabia Monte Carlo edition is characterised by black details on the exterior of the car. These include the Skoda grille, model-specific front and rear aprons, a black rear diffuser and black 16" Proxima alloy wheels exclusive to the Monte Carlo.
Inside there are red accents and carbon-look detailing on the armrests and dashboard to help this model stand out. There are also sports seats with integrated headrests and a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel as standard. The interior is predominantly black, with the decorative dashboard strip, parts of the centre console and door handles providing a touch of red. The armrests on the front doors and the lower part of the dashboard are finished in a carbon-fibre look.
There's a choice of two engines for the Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo in Ireland. Buyers can choose from a 1.0-litre TSI 95hp petrol engine with a manual gearbox and a 1.0-litre TSI 110hp DSG automatic.
The Fabia Monte Carlo goes on sale in Ireland priced from €24,750 and is available to order now.
Skoda Enyaq Review (2022)
Read Caroline's Skoda Enyaq review for everything you need to know about Skoda's first electric SUV in Ireland.
The SKODA Enyaq has arrived in Ireland and goes on sale now priced from €37,465 including grants and VRT relief. Caroline was at the press launch in Dublin to find out more about the new Enyaq and bring it for a first drive on Irish roads.
What's so special about the Skoda Enyaq?
ŠKODA's first all-electric model takes the shape of an elegant SUV. It will arrive here in two flavours at launch - Enyaq iV 60 and Enyaq iV 80 - with two different battery capacities and WLTP range. The entry Enyaq iV 60 has a WLTP range of up to 412 km. The Enyaq iV 80 has enhanced equipment levels with a WLTP range of up to 535 km. It's priced from €44,712.
ŠKODA has also indicated that a SportLine version - and an all-wheel drive 80x version - will be launched in 2022. Pricing and specifications to be confirmed at a later date.
Styling
The new Enyaq marks a new direction for the brand but it is still recognisably and reassuringly ŠKODA. It has the presence of a large SUV, with a particularly stylish front end. LED headlights and 19" to 21" alloy wheel sizes complete the look!
Interior
There is an air of serenity inside the cabin of the Enyaq. This car surely does live up to its inspirational name! The Enyaq has a high quality cabin with a real premium feel. It's a real step up for the ŠKODA brand once again. There are plenty of soft touch materials and a lounge like feel that makes it a great family car. A 13" touchscreen comes as standard in the centre of the dash with navigation, voice control and Smartlink for smartphone connectivity.
Is it practical?
Space inside the new Skoda Enyaq is excellent. It measures 4,649 millimetres long and 1,879 wide. So the Enyaq delivers the space and practicality customers have come to expect from ŠKODA’s SUV models. There is seating for five and a flat floor in the rear. The rear footwells are an impressive size and the boot can hold 585-litres of luggage. This can be extended to 1,710 litres with the rear seats folded.
Battery, performance and range
The entry level 62 kWh battery model is equipped with a 180PS (132kW) motor that drives the rear wheels through a single-speed transmission. It has a WLTP combined range of up to 412 km on a single charge. The larger 82kWh model generates 204PS (150kW) and is capable of returning up to 535 km on a single charge (WLTP).
Driving it
The new Skoda Enyaq iV is the first ŠKODA production model to be based on Volkswagen Group’s MEB modular electric car platform. We had limited time to explore the Enyaq's on the road performance but we did notice a few things that are a good early indication. The Enyaq feels effortless to drive with light steering making it ideal for town. Out on the motorway it cruises fine, offering good refinement and comfort. There's plenty of power to play with and driving modes to alter the experience behind the wheel. With its low centre of gravity due to the battery installed in the floor, it feels safe and solid on the road.
What about charging the Skoda Enyaq?
The Enyaq can be charged at home from a wallbox (takes 9-13 hours with 7.2 kW wallbox, depending on model) or using the public charging network. 50 kW charging is possible (70 minutes to a full charge) with 100 kW and 125 kW available as an option.
ŠKODA has also launched PowerPass for accessing the public charging network. A mobile app and card enables customers to locate and access more than 1,667 charging points across Ireland. This includes the ESB network. It also provides some of the most competitive rates for IONITY DC fast charging. PowerPass knows if charge points are available or occupied and provides access to charging points in Northern Ireland, Britain and the EU.
Pricing
Priced from €37,465 inclusive of grants and rebates, the entry Enyaq 60 has a WLTP range of up to 412 km. The Enyaq 80 has enhanced equipment levels with a WLTP range of up to 535 km. It's priced from €44,712.
Equipment
The Enyaq iV is offered exclusively with a service and maintenance package including replacement tyres.
Standard equipment on Enyaq 60 includes 19" alloys, 13" touchscreen infotainment, lane assist, turn assist and front assist. There's also dual zone air con, cruise control, keyless start/stop. rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers and black roof rails.
The Enyaq 80 adds more power and range as well as chrome window surrounds and chrome roof rails, rear view camera, 2-spoke leather heated steering wheel, and drive mode select.
Did you like it?
It arrives hot on the heels of ŠKODA's most recent suite of electrified models including the new Superb and Octavia plug-in hybrids.
The game has truly moved on when ŠKODA combines their knack in creating big, practical, good value cars with electric power. The Enyaq features some of the best quality of the ŠKODA range with a chic design feel to it that makes it stand out.
We look forward to bringing you a more detailed review of the new ŠKODA Enyaq later in the year!
Caroline Kidd
2021 ŠKODA Fabia On The Way
ŠKODA Ireland has confirmed that the new generation ŠKODA Fabia will go on sale in Ireland before the end of the year with an expected starting price of less than €20,000.
Twenty-two years after the ŠKODA Fabia first made its debut, the Czech car manufacturer is lining up the fourth generation of its popular small car.
For the first time, the 2021 ŠKODA Fabia is based on the modular MQB-A0 platform from Volkswagen Group, which made it possible to make the interior bigger than before. Now exceeding the four-metre mark, at 4,108 mm, the new Fabia is considerably longer than its predecessor.
Boot volume is up 50 litres to a total volume of 380 litres, rivalling many hatchbacks from the class above.
Safety and driver assistance features have also been improved.
Design is described as more 'emotive' with 'razor-sharp' headlights, as well as tail lights with modern LED technology and crystalline structures, a favourite of the latest generation of ŠKODAs.
The redesigned interior features a symmetrical dashboard with a free‑standing central display, an optional digital instrument cluster and horizontal decorative strips.
A sporty Monte Carlo version will be available some time after launch.
Five petrol engines from Volkswagen Group’s current EVO generation deliver power outputs ranging from 48 kW (65 PS) to 110 kW (150 PS).
The 2021 ŠKODA Fabia is expected to go on sale in Ireland in December.
ŠKODA Octavia (2020) Goes On Sale In Ireland
The 2020 ŠKODA Octavia has arrived in Ireland, priced from €23,950 for the hatchback and from €25,450 for the Combi estate model.
The Octavia is consistently one of Ireland's bestselling cars since it first arrived in 1998, with 65,000 bought by Irish customers since market launch.
What's new for the 2020 ŠKODA Octavia?
The fourth generation of the ŠKODA Octavia has just arrived promising more space, technology and quality than ever before. The new model is longer and wider than the car it replaces with a larger boot. The Combi’s boot capacity has increased by 30 litres to 640 litres. The hatchback has a capacity of 600 litres, which is 10 litres more than the previous generation.
A new design language gives a sharper and more modern look. LED light technology for low beam, high beam and daytime running lights features as standard across the range, as do LED taillights, brake lights and fog lights. Alloy wheels up to 19" are available, with new colours including Crystal Black, Lava Blue and Titanium Blue.
There's also a new interior with more connectivity and driver assistance systems to improve comfort and safety. A new two-spoke steering wheel, which can be heated as an option and – if ordered as a multifunction variant – comes with new control buttons and knurled scroll wheels, allowing drivers to operate a total of 14 different functions without removing their hands.
The dashboard, which has also been redesigned, is modular and has been arranged in different levels, featuring a large, free-standing central display. There are new soft-touch materials for a more premium look, and LED ambient lighting in a choice of ten different colours. The 4.2-inch multifunction Maxi DOT 16-colour display comes as standard and tri-zone Climatronic makes its debut in this latest generation of the Octavia. There is a choice of four infotainment systems with screens measuring from 8.25 to 10 inches, and a Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard display.
New technology and design
The new Octavia is the first ŠKODA to use shift-by-wire technology for operating the DSG automatic gearbox, which electronically transmits the driver’s gear selection to the transmission. In place of the familiar DSG lever, there is a new control module located in the centre console with a small rocker switch for selecting drive modes, as well as a button for the parking mode.
A whole range of new safety systems such as Collision-Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist, Exit Warning and the local Traffic Warning function are also making their debut in the new Octavia in 2020.
The new Octavia is launched in Ireland with petrol and diesel engines, with a petrol plug-in hybrid to join before the end of the year and a new high performance Octavia RS iV. Some of the petrol engines are now equipped with mild-hybrid technology.
Engines include choice of 1.0-litre 110 bhp TSI petrol and 1.0-litre 110 bhp mild hybrid. There's also a 2.0-litre TDI 115 bhp diesel and 2.0-litre 150 bhp DSG automatic.
Pricing and equipment for Ireland
Prices start from €23,950 for the 1.0-litre TSI petrol Active model as a hatchback. The 1.0-litre TSI DSG mild hybrid starts from €28,250 in Ambition trim.
The 2.0-litre TDI 115 bhp model starts from €28,750 in Ambition trim.
Standard equipment on Active models includes 16” Twister alloy wheel, LED headlights, LED tail-lights, manual air conditioning, keyless go, front assist, lane assist, Bluetooth phone / audio streaming, 8” infotainment system and trailer hitch preparation.
Ambition models add 17” Rotate alloy wheels, LED tail-lights with dynamic indicators, dual zone Climatronic, cruise control, power folding exterior mirrors, rear parking sensors and camera, front and centre armrest and Smartlink.
The Style model adds 18” Perseus alloy wheels, KESSY Keyless Entry/Go, chrome window surrounds, chrome front grille inserts and silver roof rails (Combi). There is also the Virtual Cockpit, 10” Columbus navigation system and the Style interior pack (Comfort design front seats, fabric wrapped dashboard and chrome interior surrounds).
ŠKODA Ireland Head of Marketing, Raymond Leddy, said:
“The new Octavia is a palpable leap in terms of quality and refinement. There is a more upmarket feel to the car, and it is now pushing closer to the executive segment, yet with the value that ŠKODA customers have now come to expect.
ŠKODA ENYAQ On Sale In Ireland In April 2021
ŠKODA Ireland has confirmed that the new ŠKODA ENYAQ all electric SUV will arrive in Ireland in April of 2021. The news comes as the first official images of the new SUV are released.
For the Irish market – there will be ENYAQ iV 50 (55kWh battery, 340km range), the ENYAQ iV 60 (62kWh battery, 390km range) and the ENYAQ iV 80 (82kWh battery, 510km range). We now have the first indication of how these models will be equipped, though pricing is yet to be announced.
The brand has confirmed that the ENYAQ iV 50 (55kWh) comes with 18” steel wheels, LED headlights, dual-zone Climatronic, keyless go with cruise control, a 10” infotainment system, Bluetooth, Smartlink and 4-speakers.
Moving up to the ŠKODA ENYAQ iV 60 (62kWh) will add 19” alloy wheels, a rear parking sensor, power-folding mirrors/rain sensor wipers, black roof rails, a front centre armrest and a 13" infotainment system with eight speakers.
The ENYAQ iV 80 / 80x (82kWh - 80x comes with 4WD) also has 19” alloy wheels, a front parking sensor, rear-view camera, chrome surrounding the windows and on the roof rails, a heated steering wheel and Drive Mode Select. The ENYAQ iV 80 is expected to make up the bulk of sales, followed by the ENYAQ iV 60.
ŠKODA Ireland Brand Director, John Donegan, said, “Despite the economic and industry challenges, we are confident of achieving our long-stated aim of achieving fourth position in the Irish market for 2020. With the arrival of the new Octavia this September we are determined to maintain this position in 2021.
By the end of 2022, ŠKODA will have more than ten electric or partially electric iV models in our range. This portfolio of new models, together with our strong dealer network and partnership with Volkswagen Financial Services puts the ŠKODA brand in an ideal position to challenge for the number two position in the Irish car market.”
Ireland will receive 270 units of the ŠKODA ENYAQ in 2021 with demand expected to outstrip supply of this new model. First to arrive will be the 80 models, followed closely by the 60 models and then the 50 a month later.
Skoda Enyaq Comes To Ireland In 2021!
Skoda chose Durrow, County Laois, for a recent international press drive of the new Skoda Enyaq iV. Not only is Ireland ideal for such EV events due to the distances between the airport, great roads and landscape, but there is also an Irish connection to the name Enyaq, which we reported earlier this year.
What can we expect from the new Skoda electric SUV?
The Skoda Enyaq is a highly anticipated new all-electric SUV from the Czech brand and is expected to go on sale here in 2021. No details on pricing have been confirmed however the brand has released information on battery, range and charging of this pioneering model in the Skoda range.
The vehicle tested in Ireland was a heavily disguised prototype built upon Volkswagen Group's MEB modular electric car platform. There will be a choice of three battery sizes and five power variants, with an EV range of up to 500 km (WLTP) depending on model. Fast charging also features.
The Enyaq will stay true to Skoda brand principles of offering more for less with a space saving layout for a roomy cabin, the latest infotainment and connectivity, as well as the brand's famed 'Simply Clever' features. There's a 585 litre boot.
How far will the Skoda Enyaq take you on a full charge?
Depending on the version chosen, either the rear wheels or all four wheels are driven. In the entry-level versions, a rear motor drives the rear wheels, while the more powerful versions will feature a second electric motor at the front to transmit torque to the road even more efficiently. In its most powerful variant, the Enyaq will be able to tow loads of up to 1,200 kg.
The Skoda Enyaq iV 50 will mark the entry into the range with a 55 kWh battery offering a maximum range of up to 340 km. This range increases up to 390 km in the Enyaq iV 60 fitted with a 62 kWh battery. The rear-wheel-drive Enyaq iV 80 delivers the highest range of up to 500 km with an 82 kWh battery. There will also be a four wheel drive '80X' version and a four wheel drive performance 'RS' model! The top-of-the-range model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 180 km/h. The maximum range of both all-wheel-drive variants is up to 460 km.
Charging options for the new Enyaq
Charging the Enyaq can be done in three different ways. At home using a household plug, a wall box delivering up to 11 kW (takes 6-8 hours depending on battery) or using public DC fast-charging stations with a charging output of 125 kW. These can recharge the battery from 10% to 80 per cent in just 40 minutes.
| Model | Drive | Battery | Range km |
| ŠKODA ENYAQ iV 50 | Rear | 55 kWh | 340 |
| ŠKODA ENYAQ iV 60 | Rear | 62 kWh | 390 |
| ŠKODA ENYAQ iV 80 | Rear | 82 kWh | 500 |
| ŠKODA ENYAQ iV 80X | ALL | 82 kWh | 460 |
| ŠKODA ENYAQ iV RS | ALL | 82 kWh | 460 |
Škoda Superb Review
Read Caroline's Skoda Superb review for everything you need to know about buying Skoda's largest car.
The ŠKODA Superb is a bit of an Irish legend, loved for its huge cabin and ‘more for less’ pricing. The ŠKODA brand gets better and better and the company is now the fourth bestselling brand in Ireland. ŠKODA has a place in Irish hearts some brands can only dream of, backed up by cars that people want to own and drive. The Superb is one of Ireland’s favourite cars and over 18,000 of them have found homes in Ireland since it arrived here back in 2002.
In what could be interpreted as a nod of respect for the Irish grá for the ŠKODA brand, it has recently been announced that ŠKODA's first ever electric SUV will be called 'Enyaq'! Electrification is already a feature of the range with the arrival of the ŠKODA Superb iV plug-in hybrid.
The latest generation of the ŠKODA Superb arrived in Ireland in 2015 and is the most successful version of the car to date.
What’s new for the latest Superb?
ŠKODA has revamped the Superb range for 2020 with revised styling, updated interior and new features, as well as the addition of the new plug-in hybrid. The range goes on sale in Ireland from €30,985.
Other engine options include a 1.5-litre TSI petrol with 150 hp, a 1.6-litre TDI diesel with 120 hp, and a 2.0-litre TDI diesel with 150 hp. 6-speed manual and 7-speed DSG automatic gearboxes are available. Diesels are available from €33,295.
My test car was a Superb 1.5-litre TSI DSG in Sportline trim with a list price of €39,955.
This is a very handsome car and looks ‘superb’ in Sportline trim, which adds sporty features such as a black radiator grille, black 18-inch alloy wheels, full LED Matrix headlights and a lowered sports chassis.
For the facelift, the grille is now larger with double slats and protrudes a little further down into the front bumper. The headlights are narrower and come with LED technology as standard for the dipped and high beam. At the rear, a horizontal chrome trim
connects the full LED tail lights, with ‘ŠKODA’ spelt out for the first time in block lettering.
Other trim lines include the entry level Active, followed by Ambition, Style, and the range topping L&K.
Inside the Superb
The Superb continues to set benchmarks for spaciousness in the segment with up to 625 litres of boot space. I exclaimed when I opened the boot! In my job I see lots of boots, but the Superb’s is surprisingly cavernous for a car that looks as elegant as this one.
It opens like a hatchback for extra practicality and access. It’s no wonder this car is so popular. Cabin space is also truly excellent and rear legroom best in class.
The interior is solidly built with new infotainment systems adding more modernity to the Superb range.
The Sportline model retails from €37,485 and adds sport seats with Alcantara®/leather, tri zone climate control, ambient lighting, front and rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, cruise control and aluminium pedals.
Driving the Superb Sportline
The Superb is all about big car comfort and refinement. It's got a fantastic transmission in the form of the DSG automatic gearbox mated to the 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine with 150 hp. Diesel used to be king in this segment but the Superb petrol does a fine job. It's smooth and quiet, though it does lack the punchy torque of a diesel. Over a week of driving my fuel consumption averaged at 6.9l/100km so high mileage users will still want to look at the diesel.
Despite the rising popularity of SUVs, there is still a generous market for big cars like the ŠKODA Superb. While there is keen entry pricing into the range, the Superb no longer has to play the budget card because it's such a fine, desirable car. The Sportline trim is my pick of the bunch and draws plenty of admiring glances.
The Superb is ageing very well and now has renewed pep in its step with a refresh in styling and updated equipment in the cabin. A new plug-in hybrid certainly creates momentum around the Superb again, though the petrol model on test is still hugely relevant to buyers, as is the diesel option.
The Superb feels great to drive and is a 'superb' buy!
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: ŠKODA Superb Sportline 1.5 TSI 7-speed DSG
Price: €39,955 (from €30,985)
Engine: 1.5-litre turbo petrol
Power: 150 hp
Torque: 250 Nm
0-100km/h: 9.2 seconds
Top speed: 218 km/h
Fuel consumption (WLTP): 6.0-6.9 l/100km
CO2 emissions: 136-156g/km
Motor Tax: €270 per year
ŠKODA Superb iV Plug-In Hybrid Arrives In Ireland!
ŠKODA Ireland has announced the arrival of the new ŠKODA Superb iV in Ireland. The new Superb iV plug-in hybrid will go on sale from €40,350 (excluding delivery charges and inclusive of government grants for plug-in hybrids).
The Superb was revamped back in late 2019 and the new iV gets the same updates to styling, interior and equipment as the rest of the range.
This is the first time hybrid technology has been used in the Superb. The iV uses a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine and an electric motor with a combined power of 218 hp. It is capable of travelling up to 62 km on pure electric power as confirmed in the WLTP test cycle. It is now the quickest car in the Superb range with 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of just 7.7 seconds. CO2 emissions are just 33-35 g/km. Annual road tax is €170 for the new Superb iV.
In addition to Sport mode, drivers can also select E-mode and Hybrid mode. In E-mode, the Superb iV is powered entirely by the electric motor. For safety, an E-noise sound generator creates a unique sound to alert pedestrians and cyclists.
In Hybrid mode, both power units work together, and their interplay is controlled electronically.
The Superb iV can be charged in about 3 hours with a 3.6 kW wall box. It takes about 5 hours using a standard household three pin plug socket. While moving, the Superb iV can also charge its battery or maintain the battery level using regenerative braking and also power from the petrol engine.
The SUPERB iV is offered as a Liftback (saloon) or Combi (estate). It's available in four trim levels - Ambition, Style, SportLine and L&K. Compared to the standard Superb, the iV has Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), as well as the most modern MIB infotainment systems coupled to digital dashboard displays.
Sales of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles have doubled in Ireland in the past two years to a total of 11,540 such vehicles registered in 2019. ŠKODA Ireland has advised customers to place their orders early to avoid disappointment, as availability will be limited to 250 units in 2020.
Commenting, John Donegan, Brand Director, ŠKODA Ireland, said:
“ŠKODA’s electric journey starts today with the Superb iV. The Superb iV offers the best of both worlds. The ability to plug-in and charge at home or work, means commuters in Naas, Drogheda, Navan or Greystones travelling to Dublin daily have the potential to commute, powered entirely by electricity. Plug-in hybrid vehicles offer significant advantages over so-called “self-charging hybrids” including significantly lower CO2 emissions and superior fuel economy.”
| Ambition | Style | Sportline | L&K | |
| Liftback | €40,350 | €43,850 | €45,850 | €48,350 |
| Combi | €41, 850 | €45,350 | €47,350 | €49,850 |