The Skoda Superb III 1.6 TDI (120 Hp), produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a significant iteration in Skoda’s flagship model line. Positioned within the mid-size executive car segment, the Superb III aimed to offer a compelling blend of spaciousness, practicality, and value, particularly within the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Superb consistently ranked highly in its class for its generous interior volume and advanced features, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Passat, Ford Mondeo, and BMW 3 Series. The 1.6 TDI variant focused on fuel efficiency and lower running costs, making it a popular choice for fleet buyers and private motorists alike.
Skoda Superb III 1.6 TDI: Overview and Market Position
The Superb name has a long history within Skoda, dating back to the 1930s. The third generation, launched in 2015, marked a substantial leap forward in terms of design, technology, and overall refinement. The liftback body style, a defining characteristic of the Superb, provides exceptional practicality with a large trunk opening and versatile interior space. The 1.6 TDI engine option was specifically tailored for markets prioritizing fuel economy and lower emissions, offering a balance between performance and efficiency. Skoda, as part of the Volkswagen Group, leverages shared platforms and technologies, resulting in a vehicle that benefits from German engineering standards while maintaining a distinct brand identity.
Engine & Performance
The Skoda Superb III 1.6 TDI is powered by a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, designated EA288 / DCXA. This engine produces 120 horsepower at 3,600-4,000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,600 and 3,250 rpm. The engine features a diesel common rail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with intercooler, optimizing combustion and boosting power output. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.4 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 206 km/h (128 mph). The engine’s design prioritizes fuel efficiency, achieving combined fuel consumption figures of 4.0-4.2 l/100 km (58.8-56 US mpg), and CO2 emissions of 103-109 g/km, adhering to Euro 6 emission standards. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further contributes to reduced fuel consumption in urban driving conditions.
Design & Features
The Superb III adopts a more modern and sophisticated design language compared to its predecessors. The liftback body style provides a large, practical trunk with a wide opening, offering 625 liters of space with the rear seats up and expanding to 1,760 liters when folded down. The interior is characterized by its spaciousness, comfortable seating for five adults, and high-quality materials. Key features of the 1.6 TDI variant typically include air conditioning, an infotainment system with touchscreen display, alloy wheels, and a comprehensive suite of safety equipment, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s aerodynamic profile, with a drag coefficient of 0.288, contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The suspension setup, featuring an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, provides a comfortable and controlled ride.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Superb |
| Generation | Superb III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7-4.9 l/100 km (50-48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6-3.8 l/100 km (65.3-61.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4-4.2 l/100 km (58.8-56 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 103-109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3600-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1600-3250 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / DCXA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390-1425 kg (3064.43 – 3141.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010-2046 kg (4431.29 – 4510.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620-621 kg (1366.87 – 1369.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 625 l (22.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1760 l (62.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4861 mm (191.38 in.) |
| Width | 1864 mm (73.39 in.) |
| Height | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2841 mm (111.85 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
The Skoda Superb III 1.6 TDI offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a spacious, efficient, and well-equipped executive car. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and fuel economy made it a popular choice in the European market, solidifying Skoda’s reputation for delivering value and quality.
