2016 Skoda Superb to be launched in India on February 23

Skoda will launch the third generation of the Superb in India on February 23. This is the latest iteration of the car that was revealed by the VW Group owned Czech automaker at an event in Prague earlier this year.

The 2016 Skoda Superb is built on the VW Group's MQB (modular) platform, which also underpins the Audi A3 and the Skoda Octavia. The car has grown in length by 80mm and looks sharper than the earlier models. Borrowing styling elements from the Vision C concept, the Superb gets straight crease lines over the body unlike the earlier versions. Upfront, a multi-slat chrome front grille, projector headlamps and LED DRLs have given it a fresh look, while C-shaped LED tail lamps at the back further add to the appeal. The car rides on multi-spoke alloy wheels and sports strong shoulder lines and a few more tweaks to make it look sharper.

The cabin of the car also gets many changes and new features. The width of the rear seat has been increased by 69mm. Also, the increase in the length of the car means there will be more space and comfort for the passengers. The interior will feature a new dark brown and black colour scheme with wooden inserts. The other features include a panoramic sunroof, multi-function steering wheel, 12-speaker stereo system with touch screen head unit, electric and ventilated seats, dual zone climate control, etc.

The next-generation Skoda Superb is expected to be powered by the same engine options (2.0-litre TDI and 1.8-litre TSI) offered currently, but in a different state of tune. There might be an addition of a new 2.0-litre, bi-turbo, four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 240bhp of power. The transmission option will continue to be the DSG gearbox.

The new Skoda Superb looks more appealing than the outgoing version. The carmaker has always brought this sedan to the Indian market through the CBU route. However, with a lot of localisation in the product this time, we can expect the carmaker to price the car competitively in the Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh. It will compete with the Volkswagen Passat, Honda Accord and the Audi A3.