Skoda Superb review - Reliability and safety

The Superb was the first Skoda to be based on the VW Group’s modular MQB platform, which brings with it the benefits of producing components and engines on a huge scale. Because it shares many of its mechanicals with other models throughout the SEAT, VW and Audi ranges you can rest assured that any deficiencies have been ironed out by now.

The Superb didn't feature in our Driver Power owner satisfaction survey, although the Kodiaq large SUV finished in 5th place on a 75-car list. Skoda itself finished in 20th place out of 29 brands in the manufacturer ratings.

The Superb is also without a doubt one of the most technologically advanced and safest Skoda models ever built, with a vast range of crash-prevention systems. This resulted in a strong five-star performance in the Euro NCAP crash tests, when adult and child occupant protection were both awarded an 86 per cent rating.

The Superb’s roster of available safety features include blind spot detection, to prevent you changing lanes when another car is in the danger zone, and lane assist, which nudges the steering wheel automatically to keep you within the white lines marking your lane.

Lane assist also works with the adaptive cruise control system for the traffic jam assist function that accelerates, brakes and steers the car for you in stop-start traffic. Rear traffic alert first warns you, then brakes the car if something is headed your way when you’re reversing out of a parking bay. You can also get Skoda’s crew safety system which closes windows and tightens seatbelts if an imminent disaster is predicted.

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Warranty 

All Superb models come with a three-year warranty but unfortunately – in common with VW Group stablemate Audi – the cover is capped at 60,000 miles. That sort of mileage will be covered easily by many of the big Skoda’s fleet users, but an extension to four or five years is available at extra cost.

Servicing 

Skoda recommends annual servicing or every 10,000 miles - whichever comes first. The manufacturer offers a service plan that covers the first two services for a fixed price. If you travel over 10,000 miles a year, Skoda suggests creating a bespoke service plan with your local dealer.