Skoda Superb: Celebrating 90 Years of the Czech Brand's First Production Vehicle

In the spring of 1934, Skoda introduced a new generation of vehicles featuring a central tunnel chassis and independent wheel suspension. By October of that year, the company had decided to name its flagship model "Superb" to cater to the most discerning customers.

Mass production began in Mladá Boleslav in March 1935. The first model, the Skoda 640 Superb, was powered by a six-cylinder engine producing 40.5 kW (55 hp). From the outset, the Superb was equipped with hydraulic brakes and a state-of-the-art 12 V electrical system.

The highlight of the range was a 4.0-litre V8 engine with 96 hp (70.7 kW). With ample space for up to seven passengers and their luggage, the Superb was available in various wheelbase lengths and body styles, including convertible and custom designs.

By the end of production in 1949, approximately 890 passenger cars and 1,630 military derivatives, including a unique 4×4 version, had been manufactured.

The Superb reflects Skoda's continuous transformation throughout its 130-year history. After a 50-year hiatus, the name re-emerged in September 2001 with the introduction of the first modern generation of the Superb. This saloon offered exceptional interior space and came with a range of engines producing between 85 kW and 142 kW (193 hp), including a 2.8-litre V6 with Tiptronic automatic transmission and bi-xenon headlights for enhanced comfort and safety.

Subsequent generations, launched in 2008, 2015, and most recently in 2023, continued the Superb's legacy. The second generation introduced a more practical Hatch version and, for the first time, a family Combi version, offering more powerful yet efficient powertrains and extensive standard equipment. The third generation continued this trajectory, integrating advanced technologies and innovative design.

The popularity of the Superb has grown significantly over the generations. The first modern generation, produced between 2001 and 2008, sold 137,000 units. Its successor, introduced in 2008 and available for the first time as both a saloon and a family Combi, achieved 618,000 sales, with 65% of customers opting for the saloon. The third generation, launched in 2015, continued this strong growth trajectory, with 805,000 units sold - 56% of which were Combi models.

Now, in its fourth modern generation, the Superb continues to set new benchmarks. Customers can choose between Hatch and Combi body styles, with petrol, diesel, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid engines, and to date, over 65,000 units have been sold. The latest plug-in hybrid models offer an electric range of up to 120 km. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, sustainable materials, and smart solutions like Smart Dials, the new Superb is designed for modern mobility.