The Skoda Superb I 2.0 (115 Hp), produced between 2001 and 2006, represents the first generation of the Superb model, a mid-size executive car. This vehicle was a pivotal model for Skoda, aiming to elevate the brand into a more competitive segment against established German and European automakers. While not officially sold in the United States, the Superb I was a significant offering in Europe, known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and value proposition. It served as Skoda’s flagship model, demonstrating the company’s growing capabilities following its acquisition by the Volkswagen Group.
Skoda Superb I 2.0: A Detailed Overview
The Superb I was designed to offer a compelling alternative to cars like the Volkswagen Passat, Ford Mondeo, and Opel Vectra. It distinguished itself through its generous interior space, particularly in the rear passenger compartment, and a large trunk capacity. The 2.0-liter engine variant, producing 115 horsepower, was a popular choice, balancing performance with fuel efficiency. The Superb I aimed to provide a premium experience at a more accessible price point, a strategy that proved successful in its target markets.
Engine & Performance
The Skoda Superb I 2.0 is powered by a 1.984-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the EA827 / AZM. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 115 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,400 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. This configuration provides a reasonable level of performance for everyday driving, with a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 198 km/h (123.03 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.9 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 7.4 kg/Nm. The 5-speed manual transmission delivers power to the front wheels. Fuel economy is rated at 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) combined, with 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) in urban conditions and 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) on the open road.
Design & Features
The Skoda Superb I is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body style emphasizes practicality and spaciousness rather than aggressive styling. The vehicle seats five passengers comfortably, with a particular focus on rear passenger legroom. A key feature of the Superb I is its exceptionally large trunk, offering a minimum capacity of 462 liters (16.32 cu. ft.) and expanding to 1,228 liters (43.37 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.
In terms of safety features, the Superb I was equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. Hydraulic power steering and a transverse stabilizer in the front suspension contribute to improved handling and stability. The vehicle rides on 205/55 R16 tires mounted on 7.0J x 16 inch wheel rims. The interior appointments, while not overtly luxurious, were designed to provide a comfortable and functional environment for both driver and passengers. The focus was on providing a solid, well-built vehicle that offered excellent value for money.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Superb |
| Generation | Superb I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 2001 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2400 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA827 / AZM |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 462 l (16.32 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1228 l (43.37 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4803 mm (189.09 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Height | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2803 mm (110.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
The Skoda Superb I 2.0 (115 Hp) represented a significant step forward for the Czech automaker, establishing a foothold in the competitive mid-size executive car segment. Its combination of spaciousness, practicality, and value made it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a comfortable and reliable vehicle.
