Fast Facts

Verdict:

Skoda’s newest, biggest sedan proves it can stand out on virtue

By Derryn Wong

IF THERE’S ANY proof that (very generally) Communism doesn’t really work that well, it’s the automobiles that came out from it. Russia had Lada and the ex-Communist Czech Republic had Skoda. Both built vehicles of such quality that they’ve entered mainstream culture as the automotive equivalents of a Polish joke.

So it’s fitting that the company behind one of the few successful state-dictated automobiles, Volkswagen, might possibly bring Skoda to something much more than just a punchline for torrid quality.

You might think we’re just digging up the past here for laughs but Skoda’s history is like the elephant in the living room – you simply can’t ignore it. And I’m also glad to report that the Skoda Superb sedan runs true to its kitschy namesake and is actually a very good car. On a side note it’s not actually a sedan proper since it’s got a liftback rear, but it also has a boot…so the jury is out on that one.

If you think it’s because the car is based on the VW Passat platform you’re right, but that’s not the whole story. First off, it looks like a proper modern car should: flame surfaced bits, a strong face, eagle-eyed headlamps, pronounced shoulders and so on.

The criticisms are minor – the rear is a little lackluster, compared to the drama of the front. Some might be reminded of an Infiniti G37, or a Proton Perdana if you’re feeling mean. Perched upon the prow of the car is a gigantic Skoda badge which itself sits upon a huge swathe of chrome. No chance of mistaking it for something else then…

But why would anyone want, to put it bluntly, a re-skinned Passat with a badge that carries so much baggage? Read on to find out.