The Škoda Superb is celebrating its 90th anniversary. Since 1934, the model has been synonymous with comfort, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship. From its historic beginnings to the latest generation, the Superb has become one of Škoda’s most successful models.
Škoda Auto began production of the first Superb 90 years ago at its Mladá Boleslav plant. The model quickly became synonymous with comfortable, quiet, and dynamic driving, even on the often poor road surfaces of the time. It impressed with its spacious interior, accommodating up to seven people, as well as its high-quality equipment and outstanding craftsmanship. Production of the historic Superb ended in 1949. In 2001, the legendary name returned with the first edition of the modern Škoda Superb, which has now entered its fourth generation.
In spring 1934, Škoda introduced a new generation of vehicles characterised by a central tubular chassis and independent suspension. In October of the same year, the company decided to name its new flagship model for the most discerning customers the ‘Superb’. Series production in Mladá Boleslav began in March 1935, with the first model, the Škoda 640 Superb, powered by an in-line six-cylinder engine producing 40.5 kW (55 hp). Right from the start, the Superb featured hydraulic brakes and a 12-volt electrical system, which was ultra-modern at the time. It offered generous space for up to seven passengers and their luggage and was available in various wheelbases and body styles, including customised and open-top versions. By the end of production in 1949, around 890 passenger cars and 1,630 military versions had been built, including a unique 4×4 variant.
The Modern Superb: Four Generations of Innovation
The Superb exemplifies Škoda’s ongoing transformation throughout its 130-year history. After a 50-year hiatus, the model name returned in September 2001 with the first modern generation of the Škoda Superb. The notchback saloon impressed with its exceptional spaciousness, with the top model featuring a 2.8-litre V6 engine and Tiptronic automatic transmission.
The following generations, introduced in 2008, 2015, and most recently in 2023, continued the Superb legacy. The second generation saw the introduction of a practical saloon with a tailgate extending to the roof, as well as the first-ever Combi version. More powerful and efficient drive systems were added, along with enhanced standard equipment. The third generation built on these advancements, integrating cutting-edge technology with innovative design.
The Superb’s popularity has grown with each generation. Between 2001 and 2008, Škoda delivered 137,000 units of the first modern Superb. Its successor, launched in 2008 and available as both a saloon and estate, saw 618,000 units delivered, with 65 per cent of customers opting for the saloon. The third generation, introduced in 2015, achieved even greater success, with 805,000 units sold—56 per cent of which were estate versions.
The fourth and current generation continues to set new standards. Available in estate and saloon versions with a large tailgate, it offers a choice of petrol, diesel, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Since its launch around 18 months ago, 65,000 customers have already chosen the new Superb. The latest plug-in hybrid variant boasts an all-electric range of up to 120 kilometres. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, sustainable materials, and smart features such as Smart Dials, the newest Superb is designed for modern mobility.
