Skod (2009)

The appearance of the new Škoda Superb is striking in its form. The implementation of the Škoda Auto design philosophy is mirrored in the strong three-dimensional form of the front grille, while its finely modelled chrome trimmings afford it a substantial and solid look. The contoured lines of the bonnet extend to the headlamps, intensifying the horizontal direction of these lines, giving the new Superb its appearance of sitting solidly and self-assuredly on the road. The markedly emphasised front wings underline this feature. They give the new Škoda Superb its characteristic image which, in turn, characterises it clearly as a member of the Škoda family.

The lines of the roof are an eye-catching feature. While its predecessor had a rounded, domed roof, that of the new Škoda Superb is elongated and blends elegantly into the radius of the C-pillars. This in itself is a clear indication of the exceptional interior spaciousness and, especially, the unexcelled room offered to the rear seat passengers. Chrome trim around the windows of the Ambition and Elegance models flows into a three-dimensional element at the C-pillar, giving the car a look that is normally only to be found in a higher class.

For the first time ever, the number plate holder is not integrated in the boot cover but instead is positioned lower down on the bumper. This creates space for the large Škoda logo, which radiates self assurance from its position in the centre of the vertical face of the boot cover. Below this, the attractive rear view of the Škoda Superb is enhanced by the model designation. The two-part tail lamps with one half integrated into the rear wings and the other integrated into the boot cover are true to the design language used to date across the brand. In daylight they excel with their straight-lined and elegant form; in the dark, they light up in the typical night-time design of the latest generation of Škoda cars, forming a C-shaped light. The new Škoda Superb is mounted on up to 18 inch wheels, effectively underlining the image of solidity and sporting elegance communicated by the bodywork.

Value in even the smallest of details: the interior

In spite of being almost identical in overall length to the previous generation Škoda Superb, the new Superb exceeds the alreahttp://img1.netcarshow.com/Skoda-Superb_2009_thumbnail_08.jpgdy generous interior measurements of its predecessor in almost all aspects thanks to the transverse engine design. This begins in the front, where space has been gained by moving the gear position. The central tunnel has been designed in a much leaner form. And, in the rear, the knee space has been increased by 19 millimetres, affording the passengers unique travelling comfort. The new Škoda is 4,838 millimetres in length, 1,817 millimetres in width and has a height of 1,462 millimetres.

The interior, with its finely tuned mix of materials and excellent workmanship, satisfies the needs of even the most demanding customer. The dashboard with its wave-shaped design groups the operating elements into sensible individual functional units. All of the primary functions are concentrated around the steering wheel and quick access is guaranteed because of the logical location. Thanks to the unique design, erroneous operation is practically eliminated. In certain trim levels, the steering wheel includes multi-function buttons for the operation of the radio unit, MFA and a mobile phone. Chrome inlay in the centre of the newly designed, leather wrapped steering wheel reflects the clear V-shape form of the car's front.

This design cue is also reflected in the look of the central console. It includes the new Columbus navigation system with advanced, operator-friendly, touch screen technology and a 30 GB hard disk for rapid data access and also the dual-zone climate control system. In addition, there is the large capacity glovebox. Further storage space can be found to the left of the steering wheel, attractively designed door storage spaces, drink holders on the central tunnel and pockets on the rear of the front seats.

One new item is found when switching on the engine. The speedometer and tachometer dials move from their starting positions to the top of the dials and then return to zero, a quick and simple indication that they are functioning properly.

The foam cushioned dashboard surfaces, all friendly to the touch, are available in three different colours and three different versions of the decorative strips. Depending upon the model chosen, these ensure an exceptionally elegant, a stylishly sporting or a simply timeless ambience.