Skoda India launches new Superb for Rs 22.68 lakh

Skoda Auto India today launched the third generation of its flagship model, the Superb at Rs 22.68 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai).

The latest Superb will be powered by a new 1.8 TSI/ 177 bhp petrol engine and 2.0 TDI/ 174 bhp diesel engine. The Czech carmaker has claimed that the new petrol engine is 12% more powerful and 7% more fuel efficient than the previous model. Meanwhile, the diesel engine is claimed to be 26% more powerful and 6% more fuel efficient than its predecessor. Skoda is set to reintroduce the Laurin & Klement (L&K) moniker which will be placed at the top of the model range.

Commenting on the launch, Werner Eichhorn, member of board, sales & marketing, Skoda Auto said, “The new Superb is the flagship of Skoda’s model range and demonstrates the brand’s expertise in design and engineering. With the new Superb, we are underlining our qualities with a modern, expressive and emotionally rich design.”

The new Superb has dual tone interiors with piano black finish and chrome. Further, the L&K gets perforated and cooled leather seats. Its adaptive headlights have a longer throw when the car is at high speed and the throw is wider when the car is driven slowly. Moreover, the new Superb is built on the MQB versatile platform which makes it 70kg lighter than its predecessor.

Some other features in the car include a driver fatigue detection system with three-zone climate control and 12-way adjustable front seats. It also gets a 6.5 inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartLink that supports Android and iOS and plays on a 610 watt output music system with 12 speakers.

Also commenting on the occasion was Sudhir Rao, chairman & MD, Skoda Auto India: “We are aiming for double digit growth in sales this year as we plan to launch 2-3 new products every fiscal in the future. The reducing cost of ownership and maintaining premium brand image is among the key goals for Skoda. Our growth in India is driven by premium products.”

Skoda Auto India is targeting sales of 17,000 units in 2016. The Superb sold 657 units in the period from April 2015 to January, down 37 percent. However, the company expects the new Superb to garner sales of around 2,000 units in 2016.

The all-new Skoda Superb is set to take on Toyota’s Camry and the new Honda Accord. A key challenge for the company will be to match the Japanese brands for after sales experience.