Iain Dooley checks out a saloon with all the space you’ll ever need.

In 2002, Skoda launched a new foray into the premium saloon sector, the Superb.

The car’s low price and spacious interior proved attractive to buyers. The engine line-up was picked from proven Volkswagen Group motors, while refinement and standard kit levels were high.

Petrol, diesel and automatic gearboxes were all available in a variety of combinations.

Engines

Being from good, solid Volkswagen stock means the Superb can be had with a wide range of petrol and diesel engines.

For modest use the small petrol units are perfectly useable, while the diesel motors excel in high mileage situations.

Exterior

A sober-suited car by modern standards, the Superb easily slips under the radar – if that’s what you would prefer.

Although big on the inside, Skoda’s flagship saloon doesn’t look ungainly from the outside.

Interior

It’s all about available space in the Superb, which goes beyond the traditional ‘class leading’ definition.

Room in the back is exceptional, while everyone gets to sit in a well built, pleasing to the eye cabin.

Driving

Although you can select the Superb with a few potent engines, Skoda’s limo isn’t a driver’s car.

Better suited to smoothing out the bumps, it will cosset occupants on long journeys and provide a stress-free zone for the city centre bun fight that is the urban commute.

Ownership

Like all Skodas from this era, the Superb is a wellbuilt and durable car.

The underlying technology is straightforward, and if you pick the right engine there’s no need to pay the earth.

It’s not a small car though, so take care in city centre car parks.

What To Look For

A firm favourite with the private hire industry, look out for high mileage examples that have had a hard life. A full history is essential, as is a test drive.

Parking dents and kerbed wheels should be viewed with suspicion – they could be hiding more serious neglect.

By Iain Dooley

SKODA SUPERB: SECOND GLANCE

Reasons to buy: Good value, class-busting cabin space, build quality, refinement.

Reasons to beware: Not for keen drivers, conservative styling, a private hire favourite.

Pick of the range: Superb 1.9 TDI PD 130

What to pay:

• 2002 02 – £5,475
• 2002 52 – £5,745
• 2003 03 – £6,115
• 2003 53 – £6,390
• 2004 04 – £6,785
• 2004 54 – £7,105
• 2005 05 – £7,650

Figures relate to showroom prices for cars in A1 condition.