The Skoda Superb II 1.8 TSI 4×4, produced between 2008 and 2013, represents a significant evolution in Skoda’s flagship model. Positioned as a large family car, the Superb II aimed to offer a compelling blend of space, comfort, and value, particularly within the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Superb II competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Passat, Audi A4, and BMW 3 Series, offering a more spacious alternative at a competitive price point. The 1.8 TSI 4×4 variant specifically catered to drivers seeking all-weather capability and a responsive driving experience.
Skoda Superb II: A Detailed Overview
The Superb II marked a departure from the first generation, adopting a more modern and sophisticated design. It was built on the Volkswagen Group’s B7 platform, shared with models like the Passat, offering a robust and well-engineered foundation. The liftback body style, a defining characteristic of the Superb, provided exceptional practicality with a large trunk and easy access. The introduction of the 1.8 TSI engine, coupled with a four-wheel-drive system, broadened the Superb’s appeal to a wider range of customers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Superb II 1.8 TSI 4×4 is the EA888 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CDAA, produces 160 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque at 1500 rpm. The direct injection system and turbocharger work in concert to deliver a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The engine’s specific output is 89 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its relatively high level of engineering refinement. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, the Superb II 1.8 TSI 4×4 achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.5 seconds and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.1 seconds. Its maximum speed is electronically limited to 220 km/h (136.7 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.6 liters per 100 kilometers combined (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg), making it a reasonably efficient option for its class.
Design & Features
The Skoda Superb II is a five-door liftback, offering a unique combination of sedan aesthetics and hatchback practicality. The liftback design provides a large, easily accessible trunk with a minimum capacity of 565 liters (19.95 cu ft) and a maximum capacity of 1670 liters (58.98 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, offering comfortable seating for five adults. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered features such as leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. Safety features, crucial for a modern family car, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a range of airbags. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4838 mm (190.47 in) in length, 1783 mm (70.2 in) in width, and 1461 mm (57.52 in) in height – contribute to its generous interior space and comfortable ride. The suspension, featuring McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, is tuned for a balance of comfort and handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Superb |
| Generation | Superb II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 TSI (160 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | September, 2008 |
| End of production | May, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 110 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CDAA |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1454 kg (3205.52 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2074 kg (4572.39 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) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |

