The all new Skoda Superb, the time for a revolution starts here and NOW.

• New ŠKODA Superb revolutionises ŠKODA design
• Best interior space in its class
• MQB technology offering optimum safety, best environmental values, great connectivity
• Market launch of the third-generation model in June; UK deliveries September

The new ŠKODA Superb rolled into the spotlight today with a spectacular world premiere at the Forum Karlín in Prague. The new ŠKODA Superb revolutionises the brand’s design. 

Generous dimensions, innovative safety assistance systems, a focus on the environment and comfort, plus powerful EU6 engines and ŠKODA-typical ‘Simply Clever’ features have moved the brand’s flagship to the upper end of the automotive mid-class. The new Superb is the best ŠKODA ever and the highlight of the company’s largest-ever model campaign.

ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland said: “This car marks the beginning of a new era for ŠKODA. In recent years, we have renewed and expanded our model range. The new ŠKODA Superb demonstrates our aspirations in the automotive mid-class. 

In terms of creativity and technology, it reaches a new level of performance, shows ŠKODA’s reclaimed position and leads the way into the future of the brand. This fantastic car will attract new private and business customers to ŠKODA.”

The world premiere of the new ŠKODA Superb took place in Forum Karlín in Prague, in front of 800 guests – ŠKODA welcomed international media representatives as well as guests from the group, the company, politics, business and society. The new ŠKODA Superb was the star of the evening. Its first appearance was accompanied by the world premiere of the ‘Superb Symphony’ with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. Other highlights included performances from soul legend Chaka Khan and singer Aura Dione.

ŠKODA intends to continue the success story of the brand’s top model range with the third-generation Superb. To date, more than 700,000 first- and second-generation Superbs have been delivered to customers.

Elegance, strength, dynamism –revolutionary ŠKODA design

With its new design, the new ŠKODA Superb demonstrates the brand’s emotional strength, bringing the exciting design language of the ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ show car into production. “The wheelbase has been increased by 80 mm and at the same time the front vehicle overhang is 61 mm shorter than before. This new architecture provides the car with dynamic elegance,” said ŠKODA’s Head of Design Jozef Kabaň. At the same time, the new Superb offers further improved functionality and even more space.

The front conveys power and self-assurance. The striking grille, distinctive headlights and the deeply-drawn front-end architecture – all of this has been designed for increased optical width. The bonnet has powerfully shaped contours. The side view appears dynamic and elegant. The razor-sharp tornado line stretches the vehicle and, together with additional lighter surfaces, creates effective contrasts between light and shade. 

The car’s narrow pillars, the precision-cut window outline and the gently sloping roofline give the vehicle a coupé-style look. The large wheels and the striking wheel arches emphasise the exclusive appearance.

The design of the rear is self-confident and powerful. Horizontal lines are also accentuated here. The two-part, broad and narrow taillights feature LED technology as standard and intensify the ŠKODA-typical ‘C’ shape of the lights. At the same time, crystalline elements provide the taillights with additional luminosity. The completely redesigned interior continues the essential design details of the exterior. 

This includes the emphasis on horizontal lines, which gives the already spacious interior an even more generous feel. Clear shapes, precise workmanship and the use of high-quality materials result in a premium appearance.

Upgrade – a new dimension of comfort and space

The space of the new Superb has once again increased in comparison to the already generous values of the previous model. The driver and front seat passenger enjoy 39 mm more elbow room and more headroom. With 157 mm legroom the rear space is almost stately. This is about twice as much as in the nearest competitor model. The headroom measures 980 mm; no other model in the segment can offer this. The rear elbow room has increased by 69 mm. The 625-litre boot capacity is the top value in its segment, 30 litres more than in the second-generation Superb.

The new ŠKODA Superb is the brand’s first model offering adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) including Driving Mode Select. New air-conditioning systems, including for the first time three-zone air conditioning, provide optimum temperature control and air quality. An electric sliding and tilting panoramic roof is optional. Auxiliary heating, heated seats, wireless heated windscreen and heated washer jets are available for the colder months. The rain/light sensor switches the windscreen wipers on and off automatically and automatically switches between daytime running lights and dipped beam as required.

Instead of one umbrella in the rear left door there is now one umbrella in each of the front doors. The new, electric tailgate is particularly convenient and can be complemented with an optional virtual pedal, where the customer can open the boot by waving a foot under the rear bumper. 

The electric tailgate and virtual pedal work in combination with the KESSY automaticlocking and starting system. The new Superb comes with the latest generation of Park Assist for automatically driving in and out of parking spaces. In addition, the car features a rear-view camera for the first time. The traditional handbrake is replaced by an electric parking brake as standard.

Perfectly connected

Connectivity features make their entrance in the third-generation ŠKODA Superb. There is a total of four, completely new infotainment systems based on Volkswagen Group’s MIB technology (Modularer Infotainment-Baukasten). The Columbus top model is optionally available with an integrated high-speed internet connection based on the LTE standard. This is a first for ŠKODA.

The ŠKODA Superb can be connected to a smartphone for the first time and selected apps can be operated from the infotainment system’s screen. SmartLink includes MirrorLinkTM, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SmartGate interface, developed by ŠKODA, allows certain vehicle data to be accessed and on the user’s smartphone apps. The new ŠKODA Media Command app and the Wi-Fi hotspot integrated into the Columbus system allows the infotainment system to be controlled remotely from the rear seats for the first time. The Canton Sound System with 12 speakers and 610 W output turn the new ŠKODA Superb into a concert hall on wheels.

A new dimension of ‘Simply Clever’

The new ŠKODA Superb is the cleverest ŠKODA ever. 29 ‘Simply Clever’ features make life easier for driver and passengers. Some 23 solutions are new in the Superb, 10 of these are completely new for the brand. The new ‘Simply Clever’ solutions include practical items such as a mechanically retractable towing device, a tablet holder in the rear, a tablet storage compartment in the front centre armrest, a USB port and 230 V socket in the rear, cup-holders that allow single-handed opening for 0.5-litre bottles and an extra high-visibility vest storage compartment in all four doors. 

Both front and both rear doors will each hold a 1.5-litre bottle. The interior’s versatility is increased by the option to fold down the back seats from the boot. The passenger seat can also be folded forward. New cargo fasteners secure loose objects in the boot. An ice scraper in the fuel filler flap is standard. In addition, there are new storage nets on the inside edges of the front seats, a removable LED torch in the boot and misfuel protection.

Top efficiency

The new ŠKODA Superb’s new engines offer up to 30 per cent lower fuel consumption values and emissions. The ŠKODA Superb GreenLine consumes just 3.7 l/100 km (76.4mpg) and emits 95 g CO₂ per km. The vehicle is up to 75 kg lighter and the aerodynamics have been improved. The combination of up to 20 per cent more power, reduced air resistance and a reduction in weight also result in remarkable driving dynamics.

The new ŠKODA Superb comes with direct-injection turbocharged engines based on MQB technology (five TSI petrol, three TDI common-rail diesel). All powertrains comply with EU6 standards and have Stop-Start technology and brake energy recovery as standard. The petrol engines have a power output of between 92 kW (125 HP) and 206 kW (280 HP), the diesel engines between 88 kW (120 HP) and 140 kW (190 HP). Except for the entry-level petrol version, all engines are available with modern dual-clutch transmission. Four engines are available with all-wheel drive based on the Haldex 5 clutch.

No compromise on safety

The top-level safety of the new ŠKODA Superb is impressive. Electronic Stability Control including Multi-Collision Brake is standard. The additional standard equipment for EU countries includes: Front Assist with Emergency Brake, electronic Tyre Pressure Monitor, seven airbags, and five three-point automatic seat belts with fastening alerts as well as safety headrests. Rear side airbags are optional. Also standard: XDS+, a function of the electronic differential lock. From the Ambition trim line upwards, a Speedlimiter is fitted as standard.

Optional assistance systems are also available. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) keeps the vehicle at a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. With the enhanced Crew Protect Assist,driver and front passenger are ‘prepared’ for an impending collision. 

Lane Assisthelps the vehicle stay in lane. Traffic Jam Assist, available for the first time for the model and for the brand, increases safety and comfort in traffic and during stop-start driving. The new Emergency Assist activates the brakes, should the driver become incapable of driving, automatically bringing the vehicle to a standstill.  

The completely new Blind Spot Detect system supports the driver in changing lanes safely by alerting them to vehicles in their blind spot. A core component of Blind Spot Detect is the Rear Traffic Alert function which is available for the brand and model for the first time. Driver Alert guards against driver fatigue. Travel Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition, available for the first time in the ŠKODA Superb, constantly informs the driver about the current traffic situation.

The headlights are fitted with halogen technology or with bi-xenon lights including AFS function and LED daytime running lights. The high beam can be electronically controlled via Light Assist or via the extended Smart Light Assist function (masked high beam). Striking rear LED lights are standard in the new Superb, and there are alsotwo reflectors on both sides of the rear bumper.

The new Superb’s completely redeveloped chassis with MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear axle provides optimum driving stability even in demanding situations.

Stunningly beautiful LEON ST CUPRA 280, the ultimate SEAT estate.

• New Leon ST CUPRA 280 combines effortless performance, style and versatility
• In the UK, ST CUPRA to be offered with 280 PS and choice of six-speed DSG or manual transmission
• A practical, yet fun, estate with SEAT Drive Profile (Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), Progressive steering) and mechanical differential lock
• Exclusive equipment, with array of individualisation options, including ‘Sub8 Performance Pack’
• UK pricing and specification to be announced shortly, ahead of launch in March 2015

SEAT has begun a new chapter with its iconic CUPRA sub-brand through the unveiling of its first ever high performance estate, the Leon ST CUPRA. Combining effortless performance with style and spaciousness in spades, the latest addition to the Leon stable boasts a load space of up to 1,470 litres and can shift from nought to 62 mph in just 6.0 seconds – only a shade, 0.2 seconds, slower out of the blocks than its five-door sibling.

The SEAT Leon CUPRA range already has hordes of admirers, from media all across Europe to those who sample their charms on a daily basis. The new Leon ST CUPRA adds a new dimension. For work and family, for sports and hobbies – with its added versatility, it’s the ideal everyday sports car.

“The new Leon ST CUPRA is the perfect complement to our high-performance model line-up. The combination of refined performance and expressive dynamics with relaxed long-distance comfort and compelling utility make it utterly unique,” says Jürgen Stackmann, President of SEAT S.A. “The Leon ST CUPRA shows the SEAT brand values at their best. We are proud of the technical excellence and quality it conveys.”

In the UK, the ST CUPRA’s 2.0 TSI engine with dual injection and variable camshaft timing will be tuned to 280 PS. The Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), front differential lock, progressive steering, CUPRA Drive Profile and standard-fit full-LED headlights are further examples of its state-of-the-art technologies.

“The new Leon ST CUPRA is pure SEAT – emotion and performance, design and dynamics deliver driving fun mile after mile. It boasts state-of-the-art technology evident in its great precision, but also in its amazing efficiency,” stresses Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice President for Research and Development. “We have invested a great deal in the fine details to ensure the Leon CUPRA has the same ride and the same athleticism in its estate form – but with plenty of additional utility.”

With the new Leon ST CUPRA, a success story is moving onto the next level. The first generation was launched in 1996 with the Ibiza, followed since by an array of dynamic CUPRA models which have developed to become icons of the SEAT brand. In the latest generation, the Leon three-door is being offered for the first time as a CUPRA - and now the Leon ST is too.

The Drive – high performance as standard

CUPRA stands for power, performance, dynamics – and the new Leon ST CUPRA fulfils each of these promises perfectly. The ST CUPRA 280 with optional DSG transmission, the brand’s top model, catapults from zero to 62 mph in just 6.0 seconds (6.1 seconds with the manual gearbox). Its broad spread of torque, ranging from 1,700 to 5,600 rpm, guarantees impressive pulling power in every situation.

Against this, the new Leon ST CUPRA is astonishingly efficient, with fuel economy of 42.8 (DSG) and 42.2 (manual). This equates to CO₂ figures of just 154 and 157 grams per kilometre.

Making it even more intriguing is the availability of the ‘Sub8 Performance Pack’ on ST CUPRA. The optional pack includes larger Brembo brake callipers, specially-designed 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels in either black or orange and body-coloured side skirts. For £2,025 including VAT. Semi-slick Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, as fitted to SEAT’s fastest production car when it became the first front-wheel-drive production car to dip under the then elusive eight-minute Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit lap time, are available for £460.

Hi-tech engine components

As a true high performance engine, the 2.0 TSI reacts spontaneously to every brush of the accelerator pedal and is deliciously high revving – paired with a rich and refined sound that is aided and modulated by a sound actuator. The all-new power unit with its exceptionally responsive turbocharger is packed full with hi-tech and groundbreaking features – in the dual-injection system, the gasoline direct injection is complemented under partial load by manifold injection. Its optimum set-up reduces fuel consumption and particulate emissions. 

Cylinder fill is always in the optimum range – the camshafts are adjustable, with the valve lift system regulating opening on the exhaust side. The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head and is part of the innovative thermo management system. An improved coating and alloy for the aluminium pistons and the bearings keeps friction to a minimum. The CUPRA efficiency package also includes the start/stop system and brake energy regeneration.

The Chassis – hi-tech for precision and dynamics

CUPRA has always been synonymous with outstanding dynamics, precise agility and sporting character. The latest Leon CUPRA, however, manages to set the bar a good deal higher – in every dimension. With Dynamic Chassis Control, front-axle differential lock and progressive steering all fitted as standard, it achieves considerably faster laps on the track than its already impressive predecessor. At the same time, it is significantly more relaxed to drive, with a surprisingly refined level of comfort even on long motorway journeys. Safe and reliable deceleration comes courtesy of the CUPRA-specific, high-performance brake system, recognisable by its red callipers.

DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control)

The key fundamentals of the dynamics are low weight and a stiff structure. The systematic lightweight design of the new Leon family is also evident on the ST CUPRA. The new generation of Dynamic Chassis Control developed specifically for the CUPRA is even more sensitive and responsive, adapting the chassis characteristics to the prevailing conditions in a matter of milliseconds. The same applies to the driver’s preferences, with the CUPRA Drive Profile able to be tailored specifically to their mood.

Front-axle differential lock

The new front-axle differential lock significantly improves the traction and handling of this front-wheel-drive car. The system uses a multi-plate package that is hydraulically actuated and electronically controlled. The maximum locking force is 1,600 Nm and, in extreme cases, 100 per cent of the drive can be sent to one wheel. The differential lock is integrated into all the handling systems like ESP and EDS. It not only improves the traction, but also eliminates torque steer. Furthermore, its sensitive control has no negative impact on steering feel.

Progressive steering

Also included as standard equipment, the progressive steering improves the agile handling of the new Leon ST CUPRA. The driver experiences a precise and relaxed steering feel, less steering movement is required, reducing the number of grip changes, especially in cornering or parking manoeuvres. The steering in the new Leon CUPRA works with a progressive ratio through variable toothing on the rack.

The ESP handling system has been further developed especially for the new Leon ST CUPRA and enables a very sporty driving style with full retention of safety functionality. For extremely dynamic use, such as on a race track, it can also be deactivated in two stages – the first stage deactivates the traction control and puts the ESP into sport mode, permitting greater yaw angles. The second stage deactivates the ESP completely.

CUPRA Drive Profile

The CUPRA Drive Profile enables the characteristics of the new Leon ST CUPRA to be adapted across a very wide range to meet the individual preferences of the driver. Alongside the Comfort and Sport modes, the CUPRA mode was, of course, a focal point for the engineers in Martorell. Throttle response is particularly sensitive in this setting, while the DSG operates in its sportiest shifting mode and the sound actuator supports the full tone of the turbocharged engine. The Dynamic Chassis Control, progressive steering and the front-axle differential lock also operate at their sportiest settings.

The Design ­– emotional and powerful

Emotional design is a great strength of the Leon family. For the new CUPRA, this has been developed one step further. The stretched silhouette of the ST estate version fits perfectly to the big, distinctive wheels. The new front end with its large air intakes and full-LED headlamps ensures a powerful look, as do the rear skirt with its diffuser effect and the two oval end pipes. The alloy wheels are exclusive to the CUPRA, while the red brake callipers and tinted side and rear windscreen underline its individuality.

The focus of the interior is on the CUPRA sports steering wheel in its own unique design complete with shifting paddles for the optional DSG transmission, as well as the top sports seats in black Alcantara finished with white stitching. Black leather upholstery, likewise with white stitching, is also available. For extreme lateral grip, there are optional bucket seats. The pedals and door sills are made from aluminium.

The ST CUPRA 280 is visually differentiated through its unique 19-inch wheels with a titanium paint finish, the Aerodynamic Pack with the spoiler on the rear roof edge, CUPRA lettering on the brake callipers and black door mirror housings. The trim elements in the cockpit of this top sporty variant are a deep glossy

The Equipment – exclusive and individual

The Leon ST CUPRA 280 also states its position as the top model in the SEAT range through the progressive steering, dynamic chassis control, front-axle differential lock, CUPRA Drive Profile and high-performance brake system with 19-inch wheels.

Also standard equipment, are the full-LED headlamps and the LED rear lights. Alongside their distinctive design, LED headlamps have many further benefits – they illuminate the road ahead at a colour temperature of 5,300 Kelvin. Because this is very similar to daylight, it places very little strain on the eyes. When it comes to efficiency, the LEDs consume minimal energy – dipped beam, for instance, draws just 20 watts per unit.

The top sports seats in alcantara, the CUPRA steering wheel and Media System Plus with a 5.8-inch colour touchscreen are all among the standard interior features. One particular feature in the CUPRA interior is the ambient lighting. LEDs in the door panels emphasise the contours of the interior design and add to the premium feel of the passenger compartment. At the same time, the ambient lighting offers occupants improved orientation and an even greater sense of spaciousness. The colour of the LEDs can be adapted via the CUPRA Drive Profile – they glow red in CUPRA mode, with the standard setting being white.

The look of the Leon ST CUPRA can be enhanced with the optional White Line, Black Line and Orange Line packs. The surrounds of the radiator grille and door mirrors and parts of the two-tone aluminium wheels are painted in the respective colour – with the Orange Line standing for Cup Racer orange.