Skoda has been testing the updated version of the
Superb which is set to get a plug-in hybrid
powertrain. The undisguised test car reveals subtle exterior styling changes
over the current Skoda Superb. These include redesigned bumpers front and rear,
while the lighting units will also get an LED update and styling refresh, as
will the grille that’s expected to be inspired by the Vision C study. The cabin
will be improved with the VW Group’s latest infotainment systems, as well as
new trim options.
Beyond some mild improvements to the existing
powertrains, the facelifted Superb is expected to replace the current 1.4-liter
TSI gasoline engines with the VW Group’s latest 1.5-liter TSI featuring cylinder-deactivation
tech in 130 hp and 150 hp variants.
More importantly, the 2019 Superb is going to borrow
the VW Passat GTE’s plug-in hybrid electrified powertrain, meaning a
turbocharged 1.4-liter petrol engine mated to an electric motor for a combined
output of around 215 hp.
However, the latest reports suggest that Skoda will
use a bigger 13kWh battery pack for the plug-in hybrid 2019 Superb in a bid to
offer a zero-emissions range of 70 km. The VW Passat GTE currently
uses a 9.9kWh battery pack, giving it an up to 50 km all-electric
range.
Skoda will pay
close attention to how the plug-in hybrid Superb will do in the market before
pulling the trigger on electrified versions of its Kodiaq and Karoq.
Cr : Carscoops
