Škoda Auto Celebrates 90-Year Legacy with a Bold Evolution of the Iconic Superb

Škoda Auto Celebrates 90-Year Legacy with a Bold Evolution of the Iconic Superb

(IN BRIEF) Škoda Auto commemorates 90 years since the launch of the Superb at its Mladá Boleslav plant, a model that revolutionized automotive engineering with its advanced chassis, hydraulic braking system, and innovative 12V electrical setup. Initially produced in 1935, the original Superb was available in multiple configurations—including a rare 4×4 variant—and served both civilian and military needs until 1949. After a prolonged pause, the Superb was reintroduced in 2001 as a modern saloon targeting the upper-mid-class segment, emphasizing spacious interiors, superior comfort, and comprehensive safety features. The model’s evolution continued through subsequent generations in 2008, 2015, and 2023, culminating in a fourth-generation offering available in Hatch and Combi estate versions. These modern Superb variants feature a range of powertrains, including petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options—with the latter capable of delivering an electric range of up to 120 kilometers—while embracing advanced technologies and sustainable design principles to meet the demands of contemporary mobility.

(PRESS RELEASE) MLADÁ BOLESLAV, 25-Mar-2025 — /EuropaWire/ —  ŠKODA AUTO, one of the world’s oldest car makers and Czech Republic largest private company part of Volkswagen Group, today proudly marks 90 years since the inaugural production of the Superb at its Mladá Boleslav facility—a milestone that laid the cornerstone for decades of automotive innovation. In March 1935, Škoda embarked on series production of the Superb, a model that would soon become emblematic of comfort, refinement, and dynamic performance even on challenging road surfaces. Over a span of 15 years, the company built nearly 890 passenger cars alongside 1,630 military variants—including a distinctive 4×4 version—cementing the model’s reputation for versatility and robust engineering.

The original Superb was ahead of its time, featuring a progressive backbone chassis, hydraulic brakes, and an advanced 12V electrical system. Introduced as the Škoda 640 Superb and powered by a six-cylinder engine delivering 55 horsepower, it was available in several configurations with various wheelbase options and body styles, including open-top and custom designs, and could comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers with ample luggage capacity.

After a long hiatus, the Superb name was resurrected in 2001 with the launch of a modern saloon that re-entered the upper-mid-class market. This new generation was celebrated for its expansive interior, enhanced comfort, and state-of-the-art safety features. The evolution continued with subsequent generations launched in 2008, 2015, and most recently in 2023, each iteration further refining the model with improved powertrains and modern technologies. Today, the fourth generation is offered in both Hatch and Combi estate versions, providing customers with a choice between petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Notably, the plug-in hybrid variants now boast a purely electric range of up to 120 kilometers, while options for front- or all-wheel drive further underscore the model’s adaptability.

The technical journey of the Superb dates back to spring 1934, when Škoda introduced a new generation of vehicles featuring an innovative backbone chassis and independent wheel suspension. By October of that year, the decision was made to christen the flagship model ‘Superb,’ a nod to its promise of unparalleled performance. Production commenced in March 1935, with early models highlighting a robust 4.0-litre V8 engine that produced 96 horsepower, reinforcing the model’s performance credentials. Throughout its initial production run until 1949, the Superb not only demonstrated technical brilliance but also offered generous space and a variety of body styles that catered to a wide range of customer needs.

Reflecting on its 130-year history, the Superb is a testament to Škoda Auto’s relentless pursuit of innovation. The revival in 2001 saw 137,000 units sold, followed by 618,000 units of the next generation—65% of which were saloon models. The third generation, launched in 2015, recorded sales of 805,000 units, with Combi estate variants accounting for 56% of this success. Now, with over 65,000 units of the fourth generation already sold, the Superb continues to evolve by integrating cutting-edge technologies, sustainable materials, and smart solutions such as Smart Dials, ensuring it remains at the forefront of modern mobility.

Media contact:

Thomas Drechsler
Head of Communications
e: thomas.drechsler@skoda-auto.cz
LinkedIn

SOURCE: Škoda Auto a.s.