In March 1935, Škoda Auto launched the Superb, a marque name that would become synonymous with the marque’s dedication to innovation, craftsmanship, and luxury. First made at the Mladá Boleslav factory, the first Superb gained a fast reputation for its roomy seven-passenger interior, elegant driving experience, and excellent engineering.

Production of the Superb of the first generation ran until 1949, and about 890 passenger cars and 1,630 military versions were produced. The Superb returned with glory after a gap of 50 years in 2001, and presently in its fourth generation, it continues to be an icon of the upper-mid-class.

Pioneering Engineering: 1934–1949

The Superb tradition started with the 1934 release of Škoda’s backbone chassis frame and independent wheel suspension. In 1935, the Škoda 640 Superb went into series production, with hydraulic brakes and a sophisticated 12V electrical system. On the inside, it was powered by a six-cylinder engine producing 40.5 kW (55 hp), or a 4.0-litre V8 which produced 70.7 kW (96 hp).

Evolved for luxury and flexibility, the first Superb was available in several body options, ranging from open-top to bespoke designs. Interestingly, an extremely scarce four-wheel-drive model was conceived, highlighting the model’s versatility. By the termination of its inaugural production run in 1949, the Superb had clearly developed into a standard of automotive engineering.

Four Generations of Evolution

It was decades since the Superb was not available, but in 2001 Škoda brought it back, rewriting the script on the segment with a saloon that prioritised comfort, roominess, and state-of-the-art technology. Engines offered varied between 85 kW and 142 kW (193 hp) and included a 2.8-litre V6 with Tiptronic auto box and bi-xenon headlamps.

The second-generation Superb (2008–2015) built on this success with the launch of the Combi estate model. Increased efficiency, luxurious equipment, and increased engine power cemented its popularity, and 618,000 units were sold. The third-generation (2015–2023) maintained the growth, selling 805,000 units worldwide, of which 56% were the Combi estate.

The Fourth-Generation Superb: Modern Engineering Meets Sustainability

The new Škoda Superb provides customers with the Hatch and Combi estate body options, as well as a varied range of power units:

• Petrol Units: 110 kW (150 hp) and 195 kW (265 hp) units
• Diesel Units: 110 kW (150 hp) and 142 kW (193 hp)
• Mild-Hybrid Petrol Unit: 110 kW (150 hp)
• Plug-in Hybrid (Superb iV): Pure electric driving potential up to 120 km with combined petrol-electric power at 150 kW (204 hp)

Technological innovations include eco-friendly materials, state-of-the-art driver assistance technologies, and Škoda’s Smart Dials for easy control. With more than 65,000 units sold to date, the fourth-generation Superb continues to set the standard for comfort and efficiency in the contemporary automobile world.

A Revered Legacy

From its groundbreaking 1935 launch to its present form, the Škoda Superb continues to be a reflection of the brand’s engineering excellence and dedication to providing sophisticated mobility. Over four generations, the Superb has adapted to modern needs while retaining its heritage of innovation and quality. As Škoda marks 90 years of this iconic model, the Superb continues to set the pace in combining luxury, functionality, and state-of-the-art technology.