What began in 1934 as a bold leap into technical innovation has today evolved into one of Škoda Auto’s most enduring legacies. The Škoda Superb, which celebrates 90 years since its debut, remains a symbol of refinement, innovation, and versatility in the global automotive landscape.
Originally built at the brand’s Mladá Boleslav plant, the Superb set a benchmark in its earliest years for spaciousness, engineering, and comfort. Designed to cater to the most discerning drivers of the era, the first model—the Škoda 640 Superb—featured a six-cylinder engine, hydraulic brakes, and a modern 12V electrical system, a rarity at the time. A later highlight in the range, the 4.0-litre V8 variant, offered up to 96 hp and accommodated up to seven passengers, showcasing not only technical brilliance but also practical luxury.
Production of the early Superb series continued until 1949, with approximately 890 passenger models and 1,630 military derivatives, including a unique 4×4 version, manufactured. Then came a pause that would last for half a century—until 2001, when Škoda resurrected the Superb nameplate with a fresh, modern interpretation. This reimagined Superb embraced its heritage with expansive interiors and robust powertrains, including a 2.8-litre V6 with Tiptronic transmission and bi-xenon headlamps, catering to the premium aspirations of a new generation of drivers.
As the model evolved through four modern generations, each iteration pushed the envelope of design, comfort, and efficiency. The second generation (2008) expanded its appeal with the first-ever Estate version, while the third generation (2015) brought a sharper design language, advanced technology, and increasing popularity—culminating in 805,000 units sold, with over half being Estates.
The current fourth generation, launched in 2023, carries this legacy forward with a focus on electrification and modern mobility. Offered in both Hatch and Estate versions, it provides petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with the plug-in variants offering an electric range of over 75 miles (WLTP)—a clear sign of Škoda’s commitment to sustainable innovation. Smart features like Smart Dials, the use of sustainable materials, and expanded digitalisation elevate the new Superb as an exemplar of modern design meeting responsible performance.
Underpinning this evolutionary success is Škoda Auto’s strategic vision—Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030—through which the brand is aggressively targeting growth in both established and emerging markets. It aspires to be among Europe’s top five automotive brands by 2030, driven by a mix of accessible models, expanded EV offerings, and a strong footprint in key regions such as India, North Africa, Vietnam, and the ASEAN countries. The company now offers twelve passenger car series including Fabia, Scala, Octavia, Kamiq, Karoq, Kodiaq, Elroq, Enyaq, and India-specific models like the Slavia and Kushaq. In 2024, Škoda Auto delivered over 926,000 vehicles worldwide.
A proud member of the Volkswagen Group for the past 30 years, Škoda is part of Brand Group CORE, the alliance of Volkswagen Group’s volume brands, created to optimise synergies and scale growth across the network. Škoda’s role is further solidified by its in-house development of MEB battery systems, engines, and transmissions, many of which are shared across Group brands.
With production facilities in the Czech Republic, China, Slovakia, India, and Ukraine, and a workforce of around 40,000 employees operating in nearly 100 markets, Škoda Auto exemplifies how heritage and innovation can harmoniously co-exist.
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