The Skoda Superb I (facelift 2006) 1.9 TDI represents a significant iteration of Skoda’s flagship sedan, positioned as a spacious and value-oriented alternative to more established European executive cars. Introduced as a facelift to the original Superb I, launched in 2001, this model aimed to refine the vehicle’s aesthetics and enhance its appeal. While not officially sold in the United States, the Superb held a prominent position in the European market, particularly in countries like the Czech Republic, Germany, and the United Kingdom, offering a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and affordability. The 1.9 TDI variant, powered by a Volkswagen Group-sourced diesel engine, was a popular choice for its fuel efficiency and respectable performance.
Skoda Superb I (Facelift 2006) 1.9 TDI: Overview
The Superb I, and specifically the 2006 facelift, was Skoda’s attempt to enter the upper-midsize segment. Built on a stretched version of the Volkswagen Passat platform, it offered a longer wheelbase and consequently, more rear passenger legroom than many of its competitors. The facelift brought subtle styling updates, including revised front and rear fascias, and interior enhancements. The 1.9 TDI engine was a mainstay of the Volkswagen Group’s diesel lineup, known for its durability and efficiency. This particular version produced 105 horsepower, making it a practical choice for long-distance driving and everyday commuting.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2006 Skoda Superb 1.9 TDI is a 1.9-liter, inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated EA188 / BSV. This engine delivers 105 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1900 rpm. The engine utilizes a pump-nozzle (unit injector) fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance. Power is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.7 seconds. The Superb 1.9 TDI achieves a maximum speed of 192 km/h (119.3 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined consumption rated at 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 153 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Superb I (facelift 2006) is a four-door sedan with a traditional three-box design. The facelift brought a more refined appearance, with a redesigned grille, headlights, and bumpers. The interior is characterized by its spaciousness, particularly in the rear seats, a key selling point for the Superb. The vehicle comfortably seats five passengers and offers a generous 462-liter (16.32 cu. ft.) trunk. Standard features typically included ABS (Anti-lock braking system), hydraulic power steering, and ventilated front disc brakes with disc brakes in the rear. The suspension utilizes an independent multi-link setup at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, providing a balance between comfort and handling. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Superb |
| Generation | Superb I (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TDI (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1900 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA188 / BSV |
| Engine displacement | 1896 cm3 (115.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector) |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 462 l (16.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (brakes 8%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (brakes 12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (no brakes) | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4803 mm (189.09 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Height | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2803 mm (110.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Rear track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 16 |
The Skoda Superb I (facelift 2006) 1.9 TDI offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient sedan. While never officially available in the US market, it represents a significant chapter in Skoda’s history, demonstrating the brand’s ability to compete in the competitive mid-size segment.
