Skoda Superb III 2.0 TDI (190 Hp) 4×4 7 DSG

The Skoda Superb III 2.0 TDI (190 Hp) 4×4 7 DSG represents the pinnacle of Skoda’s D-segment offerings in its primary European and Asian markets, a vehicle celebrated for its exceptional interior space, sophisticated engineering, and remarkable value proposition. Launched in 2019, this specific variant of the third-generation Superb combines a potent yet efficient diesel powertrain with an advanced all-wheel-drive system and a slick automatic transmission, establishing itself as a compelling choice for executives, families, and anyone prioritizing comfort, practicality, and long-distance cruising capability. While not officially imported to the United States, the Superb III exemplifies modern European automotive design and engineering prowess, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated mainstream vehicles popular across the Atlantic.

Engine & Performance: The Skoda Superb III 2.0 TDI (190 Hp) 4×4 7 DSG Powertrain

At the heart of this particular Skoda Superb III lies a highly refined 2.0-liter TDI (Turbo Diesel Injection) engine, designated with the internal code EA288 / DFHA. This inline four-cylinder unit is a testament to Volkswagen Group’s expertise in diesel technology, delivering a robust 190 horsepower at a versatile range of 3500-4000 revolutions per minute. More critically for a vehicle of this type, it produces a substantial 295 lb-ft of torque, available across a broad plateau from 1750 to 3250 rpm. This ample torque ensures effortless acceleration and strong passing power, even when the car is fully loaded or towing.

The engine’s design features a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, a common-rail fuel injection system, and is boosted by a turbocharger with an intercooler, optimizing both power output and fuel efficiency. With a compression ratio of 15.5:1, the diesel engine operates with inherent thermal efficiency. Its cylinder bore of 3.19 inches and piston stroke of 3.76 inches contribute to its 120.09 cubic inch displacement. The engine is positioned front and transverse, a typical layout for maximizing cabin space in a front-wheel-drive biased platform, even with the addition of all-wheel drive.

Mated to this potent diesel is a sophisticated 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. This dual-clutch unit is renowned for its rapid and seamless gear changes, contributing significantly to both the vehicle’s sporty driving dynamics and its impressive fuel economy. The DSG ensures that the engine operates within its optimal power band, whether accelerating briskly or cruising efficiently on the highway. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an intelligent 4×4 system, which primarily drives the front wheels but can instantaneously engage the rear wheels through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch when additional traction is needed. This system enhances stability and grip in adverse weather conditions or on challenging road surfaces, providing an added layer of safety and confidence.

Performance figures for the Superb III 2.0 TDI (190 Hp) 4×4 7 DSG are commendable for a car of its size and segment. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 7.6 seconds, with a top speed reaching 142.29 mph. Despite this performance, the vehicle maintains impressive fuel efficiency, particularly for a large all-wheel-drive car. According to the WLTP combined cycle, it achieves between 34.6 and 41.3 US mpg, with CO2 emissions ranging from 150-179 g/km, adhering to the stringent Euro 6d-Temp emission standard. This balance of power, performance, and environmental responsibility underscores the vehicle’s modern engineering.

Design & Features: Practicality Meets Elegance

The Skoda Superb III is characterized by its elegant and sophisticated design, presented here in a Liftback body style. This innovative design offers the sleek profile of a traditional sedan but incorporates a large, upward-opening tailgate, providing the practicality of a hatchback. With five doors and seating for five occupants, the Superb III is built to accommodate both passengers and cargo with ease. Its generous dimensions, including a length of 191.38 inches and a width of 73.39 inches (79.96 inches including mirrors), contribute to its commanding road presence and, more importantly, its expansive interior volume.

The wheelbase measures an impressive 111.85 inches, a key factor in the Superb’s legendary rear legroom, often compared favorably to much larger, luxury-segment vehicles. The height ranges from 57.2 to 57.8 inches, offering a comfortable ingress and egress. The design is further enhanced by thoughtful details such as a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.305, which aids in both fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise at higher speeds. The vehicle’s suspension setup, featuring an independent McPherson strut system with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, and an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer at the rear, ensures a compliant ride quality while maintaining composed handling. Stopping power is provided by ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety.

Interior and Practicality

Inside, the Superb III focuses on comfort, ergonomics, and intelligent storage solutions, hallmarks of the Skoda brand’s “Simply Clever” philosophy. The liftback design truly shines in terms of cargo capacity, offering a minimum trunk space of 22.07 cubic feet, which expands to a cavernous 62.15 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes the Superb III an exceptionally practical vehicle for everything from daily commutes to family vacations, easily swallowing luggage, sports equipment, or even bulkier items. The fuel tank capacity of 17.44 US gallons further extends its range, reducing the frequency of fuel stops on long journeys.

Modern conveniences are integrated throughout, including an electric power steering system that provides precise control and ease of maneuvering, particularly in urban environments with a minimum turning circle of 38.39 feet. Standard features like a Start & Stop System contribute to fuel savings in stop-and-go traffic, while a Particulate Filter ensures that the diesel engine’s emissions are kept to a minimum, meeting the rigorous Euro 6d-Temp standard. The vehicle also offers a range of tire sizes from 215/60 R16 up to 235/40 R19, allowing for customization of ride and handling characteristics. With a maximum permissible trailer load of 4850.17 lbs (with brakes), the Superb III 2.0 TDI (190 Hp) 4×4 7 DSG is also a highly capable towing vehicle, further cementing its versatility and practical appeal in the European market.

Technical Specifications