2020 Skoda Superb iV Is A Plug-In Hybrid With 55 Km Of Electric Range

Skoda has turned to sister-brand Volkswagen to help create their first-ever plug-in hybrid model. The Superb iV, as it has been officially named, is part of the facelifted iteration of the third-generation that debuted today alongside the Citigo-e iV electric vehicle.

It uses the same powertrain as the Passat GTE, namely a 1.4-liter TSI petrol engine and an 85 kW (116 PS / 114 hp) electric motor, with a total system output of 218 PS (215 hp / 160 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

The 13 kWh battery (9 kWh in the Passat PHEV) provides it with an electric range of up to 55 km (34 miles) in the WLTP cycle. It can be charged on the move, overnight or in 3 hours and 30 minutes using a wall box.

The plug-in hybrid powertrain is coupled to a standard six-speed automatic gearbox, emits less than 40 g/km of CO2 and meets the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard. With the 50-liter (13.2-gallon) fuel tank filled and the battery fully charged, Skoda claims that the car can be driven for up to 850 km (528 miles).

Three distinct driving modes further separate the PHEV model from the rest of the Superbs. The most dynamic mode is Sport, in which drivers have access to the maximum power output. Hybrid regulates how the ICE interacts with the electric motor and in E-mode, the vehicle relies solely on the battery and electric motor.

Minor styling updates over the regular Superbs include the redesigned front bumper with a honeycomb structure and the iV badge at the rear.

Inside, it comes with a multifunctional color display and can be fitted as an option with the Virtual Cockpit. The infotainment system, with standard 8-inch or optional 9.2-inch displays, is all-new and gives users access to a variety of functions, including the plug-in hybrid-specific sub-menus. Drivers can remotely control the air conditioning via the Skoda Connect mobile services, offered at no charge for one year, alongside the over-the-air updates for software and maps.

Two safety systems are exclusive to the Superb iV: the Trailer Assist and Area View. The former makes it easier to safely reverse park when towing a trailer and the second one provides a 360-degree panoramic view in the central screen, using the four cameras.

Available in both body styles, the Superb iV can be ordered in the Ambition, Style, Sportline and L&K grades. Production will kick off this fall, but customers will have to wait until the beginning of 2020 to be able to place an order.