Car Statistics: Skoda - Superb Series 03 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Sleek lines and stylish finish form the basis of the new Superb. It's not stunning but it is very smart and certainly looks more expensive than it really is.

Handling (3 stars)

Surprisingly competant, given the weight and size of this car. There's not a great deal of body roll and it can be hustled along nicely around sweeping A roads. More challenging B roads don't seem to fluster it too much either.

Comfort (5 stars)

There are few, if any, cars in this price bracket that offer such levels of comfort. There is endless space in the front and rear whilst the ride is soft, it does not compromise the car's handling. There is also little road and wind noise in the cabin thanks to the cars excellent build quality and soundproofing.

Quality (4 stars)

You can't fault Skoda's build quality, after all it has learnt from its master - Volkswagen. It is unlikely the Superb will suffer any reliability issues and the standard of finish in the interior is excellent.

Performance (4 stars)

On the whole there's a decent engine line up. The 1.8 TSI 160bhp petrol feels eager to please and does so, propelling the Superb from 0-62mph in a not-too-shabby 8.6 seconds. The 2.0-litre TDI is also sprightly with 170bhp, whilst the powerful 3.6-litre V6 with 260bhp tops the range reaching 0-62mph in just 6.6 seconds - a record for a Skoda production car.

Roominess (5 stars)

This is the real selling point in the Superb. Even with a six-footer in the front seats there is more than enough room for another six-footer in the rear. Five adults can travel in comfort and the Twindoor boot system - which offers a saloon or hatchback boot opening - enables easy access to the car's cavernous luggage space.

Costs (3 stars)

It ultimately depends which engine you go for, as the diesels are always going to be the most economical. The 2.0-litre TDI comes with two power outputs - 140bhp and 170bhp - and both offer decent combined fuel consumption of 47.9mpg and 47.1 respectively. The most frugal is the 1.9 TDI offering 49.6mpg. Choose a petrol (other than the 1.4 TSI) though and you won't get more than around 37mpg.

Value (5 stars)

Cheesy as it may sound this car is, as it name states, 'Superb' value for money. The level of standard equipment is impressive, and the car looks and feels more expensive than it is. Residual values should be reasonable on the 1.4 petrol and the diesels.

Stereo (4 stars)

The stereo system sounds great and is easy to navigate. Mid-level SE spec gets Skoda's neat 'Bolero' touchscreen system with 6 CD changer whilst 'Columbus' touchscreen navigation system is available on the top of the range Elegance spec.