Skoda has turned to sister-brand Volkswagen to help
create their first-ever plug-in hybrid model. The Superb iV is part of the facelifted iteration of the third-generation
that debuted today alongside the Citigo-e iV electric vehicle. It uses the same powertrain as
the Passat GTE, namely a 1.4-liter TSI petrol engine and an 85 kW (116 PS) electric motor, with a total system output of 218 PS and
400 Nm of torque.
The 13 kWh battery (9 kWh in the Passat PHEV)
provides it with an electric range of up to 55 km in the WLTP cycle.
It can be charged on the move, overnight or in 3 hours and 30 minutes using a
wall box.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain is coupled to a
standard six-speed automatic gearbox, emits less than 40 g/km of CO2 and meets
the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard. With the 50-liter fuel tank
filled and the battery fully charged, Skoda claims that the car can be driven
for up to 850 km.
Three distinct driving modes further separate the
PHEV model from the rest of the Superbs. The most dynamic mode is Sport, in
which drivers have access to the maximum power output. Hybrid regulates how the
ICE interacts with the electric motor and in E-mode, the vehicle relies solely
on the battery and electric motor. Minor styling updates over the
regular Superbs include the redesigned front bumper with a honeycomb structure
and the iV badge at the rear.
Inside, it comes with a multifunctional color
display and can be fitted as an option with the Virtual Cockpit. The
infotainment system, with standard 8-inch or optional 9.2-inch displays, is
all-new and gives users access to a variety of functions, including the plug-in
hybrid-specific sub-menus. Drivers can remotely control the air conditioning
via the Skoda Connect mobile services, offered at no charge for one year,
alongside the over-the-air updates for software and maps.
Two safety systems are exclusive to the Superb iV:
the Trailer Assist and Area View. The former makes it easier to safely reverse
park when towing a trailer and the second one provides a 360-degree panoramic
view in the central screen, using the four cameras.
Available in both body styles, the Superb iV can be ordered
in the Ambition, Style, Sportline and L&K grades. Production will kick off
this fall, but customers will have to wait until the beginning of 2020 to be
able to place an order.
