Skoda Superb review - ride and handling
Precise cornering characteristics and impressive body control don't harm the Superb's excellent ride. Adaptive dampers are well worth the money, where available.
Pull away in the Dynamic Chassis Control’s (DCC) Comfort setting and the Superb feels exactly how you might have imagined it would before scanning the ‘performance’ section of the spec sheet. It might have a hot hatch engine, but the 2-litre saloon-cum-hatch feels rather tame. It’s remarkably comfortable though, ironing out motorway cracks with ease.
Switch DCC from Comfort to Sport and the Superb does subtly transform its character, but not quite to the extent that it’ll turn into some type of well-dressed hot hatchback alternative. The body feels more tied down, remaining hunched over crests and strong on its toes during compressions, but ultimate body control isn’t quite as consolidated as it is with say Vauxhall’s Insignia GSi or Peugeot’s admittedly far more expensive 508 PSE. It never goes as far as becoming harsh, but every steering input becomes much more immediate.
We’ve also tried a car with standard, non-adaptive suspension. It doesn’t quite have the wide-ranging abilities of DCC-equipped cars, but it still offers a suitable compromise between ride and body control.
Steering feel is next to non-existent in all modes, but the electronic assistance is refreshingly consistent and does at least allow you to be nicely accurate with inputs. The Superb is no sports saloon, but in pure and simple terms it’s more fun than its predecessor, and entertaining enough for a car of its type. It doesn’t quite have the class or poise of its Stellantis rivals which feel like they have had more time and money spent on their bespoke calibration.
