Skoda Superb: 90 years of the Czech brand's first production vehicle

In the spring of 1934, Skoda introduced a new generation of vehicles with a center tunnel chassis and independent wheel suspension. By October of that year, the company had decided to name its flagship model the "Superb" to satisfy the most demanding customers.

Series production began in Mladá Boleslav in March 1935. The first model, the Skoda 640 Superb, was powered by a six-cylinder engine producing 40.5 kW (55 hp). From the outset, the Superb featured hydraulic brakes and a state-of-the-art 12 V electrical system.

The highlight of the range was a 96 hp (70.7 kW) 4.0-liter V8 engine. With ample space for up to seven passengers and their luggage, the Superb was available in various wheelbase lengths and body styles, including convertible and convertible designs.

By the time production ended in 1949, approximately 890 passenger cars and 1,630 military derivatives had been built, including a unique 4×4 version.

The Superb reflects Skoda's continuous transformation over its 130-year history. After a 50-year hiatus, the name was revived in September 2001 with the unveiling of the first modern generation of the Superb. This sedan offered exceptional interior space and came with a range of engines producing between 85 kW and 142 kW (193 hp), including a 2.8-liter V6 with Tiptronic automatic transmission and bi-xenon headlights for added comfort and safety.

Subsequent generations, launched in 2008, 2015, and most recently in 2023, continued the Superb legacy. The second generation introduced a more practical hatchback and, for the first time, a station wagon, offering more powerful yet efficient powertrains and a wide range of standard equipment. The third generation continued this trajectory, integrating advanced technologies and innovative design.

The popularity of the Superb has grown significantly over the generations. The first modern generation, produced between 2001 and 2008, sold 137,000 units. Its successor, introduced in 2008 and available for the first time as a sedan and a Combi estate, achieved 618,000 sales, with 65% of customers opting for the sedan. The third generation, launched in 2015, continued this strong growth trajectory, with 805,000 units sold – of which 56% were Combi models.

Now in its fourth modern generation, the Superb continues to set new standards. Customers can choose from Hatch and Combi body styles, with petrol, diesel, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, and more than 65,000 units have been sold to date. The latest plug-in hybrid models offer an electric range of up to 120 km. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, sustainable materials, and intelligent solutions such as Smart Dials, the new Superb is designed for modern mobility.