Launching a car called the Superb is a risky business for any car manufacturer. It suggests your new model is not just good, but very, very good and makes it fair game for criticism. It could be the kiss of death for any car — for a Skoda it looked like a suicide note.

But when it was launched in 2002 the Superb was a success. Based on the stretched underpinnings of the Volkswagen Passat and intended to push the Skoda brand image upmarket to compete with the Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Vectra and Peugeot 406, the car was better than the opposition in almost every respect.

It gained immediate favour among buyers less concerned with badge and more concerned with engineering. By raiding the VW parts bin Skoda had access to a strong range of engines, gearboxes, switchgear, dials and seats.

In short, the Superb took all the best bits it could find, wrapped them up in a large, practical, well-engineered body and sold them at a bargain price. Three years after its launch and with used examples plentiful, the great-value new car has matured into a fantastic used buy.

Under the bonnet was a choice of petrol or diesel power. The 1.8 litre turbocharged engine also popped up in the Audi TT and although not as highly tuned in the Skoda it still offers very respectable power. A larger but less powerful 2 litre petrol was also offered, but 115bhp feels rather pedestrian in a car of this size. The top of the range 2.8 litre V6 produces 193bhp and is silky smooth with a delightful engine note. Fuel economy suffers as a result so expect only about 25mpg (combined cycle).

On economy grounds alone the diesels are worth a closer look. The entry level 1.9 litre 100bhp unit returns nearly 50mpg but does feel rather sluggish under acceleration, although it is a happy motorway cruiser. A better bet is to spend around £500 more for the 130bhp 1.9. The performance feels significantly more brisk but still matches the lower-powered diesel for economy.

Although it was never a big seller Skoda also offered a 2.5 litre V6 diesel, a well-proven unit that is particularly well matched to the optional five-speed Tiptronic auto box.

Skoda packs in the standard equipment on all models and specifications are generous. All come with trip computer, electric windows and mirrors, climate control and CD player. Comfort models enjoy alloy wheels and cruise control and the top spec Elegance boasts part-leather upholstery and sat nav. Second-hand Elegance models command an £800 premium over equivalent Comfort versions.

On the road the Superb lives up to its name with a supple but sure-footed ride. Front-seat comfort is great, with the driver able to adjust steering wheel and seat. But the rear-seat passengers have the best experience. Only the S-class Mercedes-Benz offers as much space in the back.

Thanks to stringent quality control, well-proven donor parts and a good dealer network you won’t find many Skoda Superb owners criticising the car’s reliability. Find a well loved second-hand example with full service history and it will almost certainly represent one of your shrewdest financial decisions.

Boot space Despite lacking the flexibility of a hatchback the 462 litre boot is big enough for most buyers

Servicing Variable service intervals are dependent on a car’s usage. Check the service book carefully to ensure servicing has been completed between 8,000 and 18,000 miles

Engines All engines are strong but base model 100bhp diesel and 2 litre petrol models were often bought by private hire and minicab firms so check service history and registration document to confirm mileage and ownership details

Safety ASR (anti-skid regulation) and ABS are standard — the Superb achieved a four-star Euro NCAP rating

Stereo CD player as standard, with Comfort and Elegance models getting a multi-disc changer as standard

Colours Metallic paint is best. Avoid cars in non-metallic finishes bought on a budget

Upholstery Grey cloth interiors mark easily. Half-leather upholstery in the Elegance model looks the best

Satellite navigation A costly option when new adds only about £250 to used-car values

Climate control Standard on all models

VITAL STATISTICS

Model Skoda Superb Elegance 1.9 TDI
Engine 1896cc, four cylinders
Power 130bhp @ 4000rpm
Transmission Five-speed manual
Fuel 48.7mpg (combined cycle)
Acceleration 0-62mph: 10.4sec
Top speed 127mph

THE ONE TO BUY

A 2003 03 Skoda Superb 1.9 TDI Elegance 130bhp with 60,000 miles on the clock. Pay £8,750 from a dealer or £7,750 privately

OR, FOR THE SAME MONEY...

2003 03 Ford Mondeo Ghia X
2003 03 VW Passat SE 1.9 TDI
2003 03 Toyota Avensis 2.0 D-4D T3-S
2003 53 Peugeot 406 2.0 HDi Executive

VALUES





Source: estimates based on confidential CAP black book prices. ‘Trade’ is what a dealer would pay to buy your car; ‘Retail’ is what you would pay a dealer