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Once one of the most popular new vehicle segments in Europe, the D-segment is now a shadow of the past due to the rapid decline in demand in recent years. Models such as the Ford Mondeo and Renault Talisman are no longer on sale but the Volkswagen Group has plans to release two new entries in the segment.
The VW Passat will change to a wagon only product but Skoda will have the next generation Superb available in liftback and station wagon form. After an initial encounter by our spy photographer and the appropriate rendering, we now have a photo that finally shows the new Superb wearing its production body.
22 Photo
This highly camouflaged prototype was caught being tested on a Czech registration plate with no fake body panels or cladding. It was completely disguised, although we can positively say that the form of the new Superb will not change dramatically compared to its predecessor. The long wheelbase and long rear overhang suggest the new model is likely to retain its position as the widest and largest model in Europe’s D-segment. The proportions seem to be largely unchanged with the only important difference perhaps being a slightly more sloping roofline.
Camouflage definitely hindered our detailed view of the vehicle, although we can already see some similarities between the new Superb and the current Octavia, which will be updated soon. To some extent, Skoda’s next-generation flagship wagon looks like the bigger Octavia, especially up front. Smaller design details that have remained hidden for now might give the Superb a slightly more premium look, but we don’t expect major changes from Skoda’s relatively conservative design language.
Beneath the skin, the architecture that underpins the new Superb will be an evolution of the MQB platform used by the current model. The major tech update is expected to bring a new digital instrument cluster, a more advanced dual-clutch gearbox with shift-by-wire system, a new driver assistance system, and improved infotainment functions. The standard combustion engine will be joined by a plug-in hybrid powertrain that is likely to be available in two power stages. Production of the new Superb will begin next year at Volkswagen’s factory in Bratislava, Slovakia.
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