Moving the gear selector onto the steering column has freed up more space on the Superb’s centre console. A pair of cup-holders and a large smartphone tray, which can wirelessly charge devices, sit beneath a pair of sliding covers.
Practicality
The Skoda Superb has always been a class leader when it comes to space, and the new model is better than ever.
Rear Space: We’ve never complained about the old Superb being miserly for interior space, but that hasn’t stopped Skoda from offering even more this time around. It says that rear headroom has been increased by 6mm over the last Superb, but it’s the massive kneeroom that passengers will appreciate most. It’s even reasonable for three people in the back, thanks to a wide middle seat, although the central hump in the floor is quite high.
Boot: The impressive size continues in the back, where overall storage space has increased by 20 litres more than the car it replaces, now standing at a cavernous 645 litres. Two smaller compartments to the side of the main load area – one of which is enclosed – are useful features, too.
What to buy?
Which version we’d choose…
- Powertrains: There’s no PHEV version of the saloon, but mild-hybrid tech is fitted to the 148bhp 1.5 TSI petrol. The top-spec L&K is available with a 2.0-litre petrol with 261bhp. While the diesel here is good enough, those after more power can turn to a 190bhp, 400Nm version, but it’s not available with SE Tech trim.
- Trim: The SE Tech also misses out on matrix LED headlights, but it still gets very bright standard LED units. Beyond that, it’s mainly luxury additions such as massaging leather seats and an automatic tailgate – hardly necessities – that you’ll need to pay extra for.
- Our choice: Hit the entry level and go for the SE Tech with a frugal diesel engine.
Citroen C5 X
The Citroen C5 X we’re testing here is an all-new range-topping trim. Called Hypnos, it’s the most lavishly equipped variant we’ve seen yet, and is priced to reflect this, at £43,290.
Tech highlights
AS with the Superb, the C5 X makes the most of a platform that’s widely used throughout its multi-brand parent group. In this case, it’s the EMP2 architecture that the C5 X stretches to one of its largest sizes across the Stellantis family. While EMP2 can accommodate diesel powertrains, there isn’t one to order here. But there is a plug-in hybrid powertrain; ironic given its absence in the Superb.
