Skoda Superb III 1.4 TSI (125 Hp)

The Skoda Superb III 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) represents the third generation of Skoda’s flagship mid-size family car, a model that carved out a significant niche in the European and Asian markets for its exceptional spaciousness, robust engineering, and remarkable value proposition within the Volkswagen Group stable. Produced from March 2015 to 2018, this particular iteration, powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, underscored Skoda’s commitment to offering efficient yet capable powertrains in a sophisticated package. While not officially sold in the United States, the Superb III is a prime example of a vehicle designed to meet the diverse demands of international markets, balancing executive-class comfort and practicality with accessible running costs.

Engine and Performance: The Skoda Superb III 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) Powertrain

At the heart of this variant of the Skoda Superb III lies the well-regarded 1.4-liter TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) engine, identified by the EA211 / CZCA code. This inline four-cylinder powerplant, featuring a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and direct fuel injection, was engineered for a compelling blend of efficiency and responsiveness. With a displacement of 1395 cm³ (85.13 cu. in.), the engine delivers a respectable 125 horsepower at a broad range of 5000-6000 rpm, ensuring ample power delivery across various driving scenarios. Its peak torque of 200 Nm, translating to 147.51 lb.-ft., is available from a remarkably low 1400 rpm and sustained up to 4000 rpm. This wide torque band is a hallmark of modern turbocharged engines, providing strong, linear acceleration from low speeds and minimizing the need for frequent gear changes, enhancing the driving experience.

Performance figures for the Skoda Superb III 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) are quite competitive for its class and engine size. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a calculated 9.4 seconds, with 0-100 km/h achieved in 9.9 seconds. Its maximum speed reaches 129.25 mph (208 km/h), making it perfectly capable of sustained highway cruising. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a precise 6-speed manual transmission, offering engaging control for drivers who prefer a hands-on approach. The powertrain architecture employs a front, transverse engine layout, optimizing space efficiency within the engine bay and contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.

Fuel economy was a key consideration for the Superb III 1.4 TSI. Under the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) standard, it achieves combined fuel consumption figures of 5.3-5.5 liters per 100 km, which translates to an impressive 44.4-42.8 US mpg. Urban driving yields 34.6-33.6 US mpg, while extra-urban cycles can see figures as high as 53.5-51.1 US mpg. These efficiency metrics are further bolstered by a Start & Stop System, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, reducing fuel consumption and emissions in city traffic. CO2 emissions are rated at 122-128 g/km, adhering to the stringent Euro 6 emission standard, reflecting its environmentally conscious design for the European market.

Design and Features: Practicality Meets Executive Appeal

The Skoda Superb III is characterized by its elegant and sophisticated design, a significant departure from previous generations, adopting sharper lines and a more assertive stance. As a liftback, it masterfully combines the sleek profile of a sedan with the immense practicality of a hatchback. This body type, featuring five doors and seating for five occupants, allows for an extraordinarily versatile cargo area. The minimum trunk (boot) space is a cavernous 625 liters (22.07 cu. ft.), which expands to an astonishing 1760 liters (62.15 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. This class-leading luggage capacity is a cornerstone of the Superb’s appeal, making it an ideal choice for families and professionals requiring extensive cargo versatility.

Dimensionally, the Superb III is a substantial vehicle, measuring 4861 mm (191.38 in.) in length, 1864 mm (73.39 in.) in width, and 1468 mm (57.8 in.) in height. A generous wheelbase of 2841 mm (111.85 in.) contributes significantly to its remarkable interior room, especially for rear-seat passengers, a trait for which the Superb is particularly renowned. The drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.292 indicates a well-optimized aerodynamic profile, contributing to both fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise at higher speeds. The vehicle’s substantial 66-liter (17.44 US gal) fuel tank capacity ensures an excellent cruising range, further enhancing its long-distance touring capabilities.

Underpinning the Superb III’s comfortable and composed ride are its sophisticated suspension systems. The front features an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing precise steering and good road holding. At the rear, an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer ensures excellent ride comfort and handling stability, particularly over uneven surfaces. Braking performance is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety during emergency stops. Steering is managed by an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering light effort at low speeds for easy maneuvering and firmer feel at higher speeds for greater stability. The car typically comes equipped with 215/60 R16 or 215/55 R17 tires, mounted on 6.5J x 16 or 7J x 17 wheel rims, respectively, providing a balance of comfort and grip.

Market Positioning and Legacy

In its primary markets, the Skoda Superb III 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) played a crucial role as a sophisticated and highly practical offering in the D-segment. Skoda, as a brand within the Volkswagen Group, is often lauded for its “Simply Clever” philosophy, which translates into thoughtful features and exceptional utility without compromising on quality or driving dynamics. The Superb III embodied this ethos perfectly, offering interior space and comfort that rivaled larger, more expensive executive sedans, but at a more competitive price point. Its robust build quality, refined powertrain, and extensive list of standard and optional features made it a compelling choice for both private buyers and fleet operators across Europe and beyond.

The 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) variant, in particular, was strategically positioned to offer a balance of performance and running costs. It appealed to buyers who sought the Superb’s renowned spaciousness and executive feel but prioritized fuel efficiency and lower emissions over outright power. This made it an ideal choice for daily commutes, long-distance family trips, and as a comfortable business vehicle. The Superb III’s success solidified Skoda’s reputation as a manufacturer capable of delivering premium-level vehicles that are genuinely practical and accessible, cementing its status as a key player in the global automotive landscape, even in markets where its models are not directly retailed.

Technical Specifications