Skoda introduces Superb PHEV
The Superb iV follows in the wheel tracks of its predecessor but offers a substantial improvement in its all-electric capabilities. Like the Kodiaq, the fourth-generation Superb was designed from the very outset to accommodate a new plug-in hybrid system, and features a larger battery pack and completely redesigned power electronics to further optimise range and efficiency. Available in estate form only, the Superb iV comes with a 510-litre boot with the rear seats in position (1,770 litres with rear seats folded) and sector-best rear legroom.
Škoda iV plug-in drivetrain
The Superb's drivetrain consists of two elements; a 1.5 TSI four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor built directly the DQ400e sic-speed DSG gearbox. The petrol engine develops 150PS while the electric motor is capable of producing 116PS. The combined system output of the two power sources is 204PS.
As with the first-generation Superb iV drivetrain, the motor can move the car alone or in combination with the engine. The motor, which is separated from the engine by a clutch, is also used to start the engine and replaces the traditional alternator.
Key to the performance of the second-generation plug-in system is the introduction of a much larger 25.7kWh pack (19.7kWh usable) lithium-ion battery pack. Located under the rear seats, the new pack is almost twice the capacity of the first-generation battery (13kWh), and delivers a corresponding boost in all-electric driving range.
In E-mode, the new Superb iV has a WLTP all-electric driving range of up to 84 miles (SE Technology); a significant increase on the previous model (up to 35 miles WLTP). As before, drivers have the option of using the petrol engine in hybrid mode where it works alongside the electric motor.
The Superb's battery pack is additionally equipped with integrated water cooling as standard and accumulates energy from both regenerative braking and external charging, and supplies energy for the heating and air conditioning compressor.
DC charging for the first time
The Superb iV's second-generation plug-in system also introduces a faster and more sophisticated charging system. For the first time, a Škoda plug-in hybrid can accept a DC rapid charge via a new CCS socket. The new charging ports (Type 2 and CCS) have also been relocated from the front grille to the front wing of the Superb, making it easier to access DC rapid chargers. Thanks to a peak speed of 50kW, the Superb iV's pack can be charged from 10 to 80% in around 26 minutes under ideal sircumstances. As with the previous model, the new Superb iV can also be charged on an AC supply at a maximum charge rate of up to 11kW. When connected to a suitable 11kW AC charger, a 10 to 80% charge can be achieved in around 2hrs 30 minutes.
The Superb iV is available order in estate form only and comes with the option of three trim levels: SE Technology, SE L and Laurin & Klement. All iV models come with Mode 3 (32A) charging cable as standard.
Superb Estate iV SE Technology, from £41,465 OTR
The entry-level SE Technology trim comes with a standard specification that includes 17-inch Mintaka silver alloys, a 13-inch central infotainment display with integrated Sat Nav as well as a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit. Heated front seats with four-way pneumatic lumbar support and extendable thigh support are also fitted as standard. SE Technology models are additionally equipped with a Rear View Camera with washer, Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Assist, Lane Assist Plus, Traffic Jam Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition.
Superb Estate iV SE L, from £44,820 OTR
SE L models add larger 18-inch Dofida silver alloy wheels, rear LED lights with animated indicators and two rear fog lights. The new generation LED matrix beam headlights deliver a more powerful illumination and include LED daytime running lights, Dynamic Range Control and Cornering, Poor Weather Light and an all-weather light mode takes over the role of the fog lights. The SE L also adds sports comfort seats with advanced massage function for the front seats, electrically-operated boot with Virtual Pedal and an electric sliding parcel shelf.
Superb Estate iV Laurin & Klement (L&K), from £48,540 OTR
The range-topping iV model comes with 18-inch Belatrix aero anthracite alloy wheels and a special L&K Suite Black with black leather interior or L&K Suite Cognac Design Selection. The cabin also benefits from a CANTON sound system, two-spoke leather, heated multi-function steering wheel with DSG paddles as well as heated rear seats, heated windscreen and heated washer nozzles. Other standard features include Park Assist, Trained Parking and an Area View camera.