SKODA SUPERB ESTATE SE L 1.4 TSI iV PLUG-IN HYBRID

摘要

There isn't a great deal to identify this Superb PHEV. Aside from a charging point integrated into the front grille and a small iV badge superglued to the tailgate, it's the same smart looking estate car as petrol and diesel versions. The Superb plug-in hybrid combines a 154bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 114bhp electric motor, which combined makes an impressive 215bhp and 295lb ft of torque. This is paired with a silky six-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission that makes the iV edition of the Superb easy to drive. Squeeze the accelerator and there's swift, effortless zip away from the traffic lights, with good mid-range punch when overtaking. The brakes initially feel quite spongey, but it is a feeling that you soon adjust to. Six driving modes allow you to tailor the driving experience, with Sport giving you maximum oomph, E-mode delivering power exclusively from the battery and in hybrid mode, the car decides the best balance between the combustion engine and electric motor. There's also Eco, Comfort, Normal and Individual to switch between, too. On start up the petrol engine is quiet, and only begins to feel strained when you've got your left foot planted in the footwell. Road and tyre noise are impressively contained, and ride comfort is hugely comfortable, soaking up the worst road surfaces that the UK can muster. The steering is nicely weighted, there's decent agility on fast back roads, high levels of grip and body lean is all but banished when cornering.