For towing lightweight caravans, this is indeed a superb choice of vehicle, says Euan Doig
HE PROBABLY wasn’t intending to, but Rag’n’Bone Man very aptly described the third-generation Škoda Superb in the song ‘All You Ever Wanted’. If you are a tow car fan, the song title perfectly sums up the car from Czechia, because it will do pretty much whatever you need, and do it well.
What’s it like inside?
The Škoda Superb Mk3 is marketed as an affordable executive car, and that’s exactly how it feels inside. Everything is beautifully put together and the materials themselves are luxurious. Entry-level S models come with air conditioning, a DAB radio and a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while SE trim adds dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control and rear parking sensors.
SE Technology comes with front parking sensors and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat. There are higher-spec trim levels, but this really is all you need.
As for roominess, the Superb is almost as well versed in space as Captain Kirk. The two front-seat occupants have a vast amount of legroom and headroom to relax in, while those sitting in the rear will be able to stretch out and lounge around, even when those in the front have their seats as far back as they will go.
In this version of the Superb, the boot, always an important consideration for tow car drivers, is big enough to get lost in – but if even this isn’t large enough, the estate version of the Škoda has a boot that’s big enough to live in.
How does it drive?
When launched, the Superb was available with a range of engines, starting with a 1.4-litre turbo petrol that produced 123bhp or 148bhp, or a 2.0-litre turbo petrol with up to 276bhp.
In 2018, the 1.4 was replaced with a newer 1.5 turbo petrol. There’s also a 2.0-litre turbodiesel, which has a range of power outputs, and the 148bhp version is our preferred engine.
This produces 251lb ft of torque between 1750 and 3000rpm, which makes it ideal for towing duties, although performance can be slightly hampered by the long gearing.
The Superb may be big, but it isn’t heavy, at 1485kg. Even so, it’s a stable and assured car that remains largely unaffected by side winds when towing. Hill starts are easy, thanks to the electric parking brake, and the steering is light and accurate, making it ideal for manoeuvring.
Driven solo, the Superb is a relaxing companion. It’s quiet and comfortable, and the o
