Skoda Superb has been given a rebirth by Volkswagen designers who have named this flagship car of Skoda family in honor of the luxurious Skoda Superb of 1930’s. It shares its platform with highly successful WV Passat model. Dubbed as executive car, current models include 1.8L I4 Turbo as standard engine. More powerful petrol and diesel engines include 2.8L V6 30v and 2.5L V6 TDI, respectively.
Specifications
A recent facelift offers new radiator grille, headlights, side repeater indicators and C-shaped tail lights. As part of refurbishment project, interior panel is fitted with real wood and includes extras that were once hallmark of original Skoda Superb. Utilizing transverse engine layout, the all new B6 comes with fuel stratified injection turbocharged engine which can be upgraded to a powerful 3.6L 191kw FSI VR6 versions, providing reduced fuel consumption. For automobile enthusiasts who prefer even more power, Skoda engineers are now offering an optional direct shift gearbox with 6 or 7 speed transmissions in all trim combination. These trim levels are classified as Comfort, Ambition and Elegance in Europe, however, in UK they are marketed as S, SE, Elegance and Greenline. A Combi 5 door estate model is already introduced in Frankfurt Auto Show. This version of Skoda family cars is made for car owners who prefer luxury and more passenger space.
B6 Models
Produced in Czech Republic and India, Skoda Superb B6 2008, contains 4motion four wheel drive which is fitted with more advanced technology, constituting top of the line petrol engines such as 3.6 L VR6 FSI 4×4. Similarly, powerful diesel variants have also been reintroduced to include 1.9 L I4 TDI PD DPF Greenline and 2.0 L I4 TDI CR DPF. It seems that Skoda Superb designers are bent on providing even more choices. Their motives are expressed in classical ‘Laurin and Klement’ model which derives its features not only from original Skoda masterpiece but also from Rolls Royce. Like Rolls Royce it includes components such as an umbrella hidden in rear door panel.
As of 2008, the first generation Skoda Superb has stopped production. In its place, B6 is being offered in either 5 door liftback sedan or 5 door estate versions. Based on Volkswagen Group A5 PQ35 platform, the new version is a touch longer and wider than its predecessor. Fortunately, a slight price difference should not limit loyal Skoda buyers to catch onto the latest frenzy in Czech Republic and certain other East European markets.
Gurg Sumit Kumar
Since 1999, the Czech manufacturer, Skoda Auto has been producing one of the most stylishly designed supermini. The looks of Skoda Fabia are based on new designs by its parent company, Volkswagen. The car is offered as 4 door saloon or 5 door estate and hatchback models. Available in petrol and diesel versions, most recent models are equipped with 1.4 16valve 80 PS engines which are able to produce torque up to 132N at 3800rpm.
Appeal
Earlier models of Skoda Fabia were heavier in comparison to its competition but designers soon came out with an innovative 1.2HTP engine which became so popular that VW Polo also adapted it in their newer vehicles. In 2006, engineers boosted specifications by adding a rear seat headrest, three point seat belts and four bodywork colors. In fact, it was the overall design which attracted young buyers who were readily impressed by its sporty looks. To cater to increasing demands, engineers have introduced classical designs including Silverline, Bohemia, Sport, Ambiente and Blackline. Minor changes are also reflected in junior models sold in Eastern Europe which are relatively low priced but doesn’t include standard features.
Powerful Diesel Engine
The diesel version of Skodia Fabia has also been an instant hit. The 1.9L turbocharged direct injection system can produce 130 metric horsepower and an amazing 310N at 1900rpm. It is controlled by a manual six speed gearbox which can accelerate to 100km/h in approximately 8 seconds. Although, the official acceleration speed is quoted to be more than 9 seconds but tests by major industry outlets have proved that the reliable diesel engine is actually more powerful than its contemporaries. A 6 speed tiptronic transmission and 7 speed direct shift gearbox are also available for customized models.
5J Model
The new 5J models have been rolled out with additional safety features. All European models are fitted with driver, passenger and side airbags. A highly advanced internal safety feature that prevents wiring from heating up is another distinguishing aspect of 5J models. According to Euro NCAP safety tests, Skoda Fabia is recommended to be 4 stars in adult occupancy ratings and three star for child occupant. Considering traditionally lower safety ratings for small cars, it is an impressive feat to achieve such high ratings in its class.
Gurg Sumit Kumar
Skoda a subsidiary of Volkswagen maker of VW Cabrio parts is going to join the second Le Mans Series event that will be held Valencia, Spain. The Skoda Charouz Racing System-Lola/Judd team will appear this weekend in Valencia, Spain. For the second Le Mans Series event it will be raced by trio Jan Charouz, Stefan Mucke, and Alex Yoong. The crew believes that this time they will prove the car’s immense power just like what it showed in the first race in Monza, where the LolaB07/17 Judd factory vied for podium.
Unfortunately for the team their April chances were crushed by gearbox failure. The technical trouble is unlikely to reappear despite of the efforts given by Lola’s engineers in sorting out the construction problem. One of the highlights at the opening of the LMS race was the power of the vehicle painted in Czech tricolor. The factory Peugeots 908 was the only one found faster than the Charouz and Mucke.
The second race which will last for six hours will also measure 1000 kilometers and if in the Malaysian F1 the ex-pilot Alex Yoong was missing, in Monza the team will be complete. The coming race will also be a great chance for the Skoda Charouz team to prepare for the peak of the season which the famous June marathon 24 Hours Le Mans.
The Mücke’s start is still uncertain, but the Berliner figured it out amazingly. During the day, he what he will do is to make it to both FIA Grand Turismo in Silverstone and the Spanish six-hour race. And together with a few other drivers he will avail of the charter flight between the British and Spanish circuits. He will then launch the Lamborghini Murcielago into the two-hour race transferred the wheel to compatriot Frank Biela and take off for Valencia where he is expected to drive the final part of the six hours.
The Valencia race is a wider competition than Monza as a matter of fact at least 46 cars enrolled for the race of which 23 are sport prototypes. The Czech Lola/Jud belongs in the elite LMP1 class. For this coming race there will be two experienced and fast crews that skipped the Italian opening that will be joining: Swiss team Swiss Spirit (Deletraz, Fässler, Alexander-David) and British team Arena (Johansson, Shimoda). The Valencia race will be broadcasted by Czech TV channel Galaxie Sport in a series of live and record programs (12.55-13.50, 15.55-16.50 a 19.10-20.05).
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Benjamin Hudson works as a supervisor at one of the top engineering firms in the business district of Louisiana. He is also a freelance journalist and has passion for anything automotive.