The Skoda Superb II 2.0 TDI (170 Hp), produced between 2008 and 2013, represents a significant evolution in Skoda’s flagship model. This liftback sedan aimed to provide a spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced vehicle at a competitive price point, primarily targeting the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Superb II offered a compelling alternative to more established brands, emphasizing value and practicality. It occupied the mid-size segment, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Passat, Ford Mondeo, and Opel/Vauxhall Insignia.
Skoda Superb II: A Detailed Overview
The Superb II marked a departure from its predecessor, adopting a more modern and refined design. It built upon Skoda’s reputation for offering generous interior space and a comfortable ride. The 2.0 TDI variant, equipped with a 170 horsepower diesel engine, was a popular choice due to its balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The liftback body style, featuring a large trunk opening and folding rear seats, provided exceptional versatility for families and those requiring ample cargo capacity.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Skoda Superb II 2.0 TDI lies a 1968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the EA189 / CBBB. This engine produces 170 horsepower at 4200 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both power output and reduced emissions. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 86.4 Hp/l.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.8 seconds, and a calculated 0-60 mph time of 8.4 seconds. The Superb II 2.0 TDI achieves a maximum speed of 222 km/h (137.94 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.0 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l). Urban fuel consumption is 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg), while extra-urban figures are an impressive 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg).
Design & Features
The Skoda Superb II is a five-door liftback, offering a unique blend of sedan practicality and hatchback versatility. Its exterior design is characterized by clean lines and a relatively understated elegance. The large front grille and distinctive headlights contribute to its modern appearance. Inside, the Superb II prioritizes space and comfort. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys. The liftback design provides a substantial 565-liter (19.95 cu. ft.) trunk, which expands to a cavernous 1670 liters (58.98 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.
Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock braking system) as standard. The vehicle’s construction and available safety equipment aimed to meet Euro 5 emission standards. The Superb II also featured a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Standard wheel size was 7.0J x 16 with 205/55 R16 tires. The interior appointments, while not overtly luxurious, were well-built and functional, focusing on providing a comfortable and user-friendly experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Superb |
| Generation | Superb II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CBBB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1498 kg (3302.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2118 kg (4669.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1670 l (58.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4838 mm (190.47 in.) |
| Width | 1783 mm (70.2 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm (108.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1518 mm (59.76 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
The Skoda Superb II 2.0 TDI (170 Hp) offered a compelling package of space, comfort, efficiency, and value. While not available in the US market, it was a popular choice in Europe, demonstrating Skoda’s ability to produce a competitive vehicle in the mid-size segment.
