The Superb actually runs on a modified Passat platform – overall it’s 73mm longer at 4,838mm and a considerable 53mm increase in wheelbase brings it to 2,761mm.

This adds 50kg and some length to a Passat 1.8 turbo, but the Superb manages to get around this somehow and seems to handle just as well as its progenitor. No surprises there since the suspension system is essentially the same, the Superb takes corners in a very conservative, understeery and fuss-free manner as you’d expect from any quality big sedan.

Perhaps the only complaints are ones that could be applied to any of its competitors too, except the Ford Mondeo, which are a lack of feedback at turn-in and that the ride is a little busy at times.

1,798cc of in-line four remains unchanged from the Passat. Identical bore, stroke and capacity plus turbocharging brings the power output to 160bhp made at a toppy 4,500-6,200rpm. Drivability is superb though, with the traction of 250Nm of torque that can be enjoyed 1,500 to 4,500rpm making quick hops or highway overtaking easy.
Locally the Superb only comes with the new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, also seen in the latest Golf, which improves both acceleration and fuel consumption, quoted at 8.5 seconds to reach the hundred and 7.6L/100km, although the latter is probably an optimistic manufacturer’s figure.

It’s an excellent unit, as expected from a VW Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), and you can barely feel the shifts once the car is in motion. The only downside is the usual lurching at low speeds and reverse, but on the whole, the gearbox itself is worth the price of admission.

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