The Škoda Superb Mk3, which was marketed as an affordable executive car, is a towing option that will do pretty much whatever you need, and do it well too.
What’s a Škoda Superb Mk3 interior inside?
Everything is beautifully put together in the Škoda Superb Mk3 and the materials themselves are luxurious, providing the type of experience you’d expect in one of the best used cars for towing a caravan. Entry-level S models come with air conditioning, a DAB radio and a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while SE trim adds dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control and rear parking sensors.
SE Technology comes with front parking sensors and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat. There are higher-spec trim levels, but this really is all you need.
As for roominess, the Superb provides one of the things that we look for in the best caravan tow cars. The two front-seat occupants have a vast amount of legroom and headroom to relax in, while those sitting in the rear will be able to stretch out and lounge around, even when those in the front have their seats as far back as they will go.
In this version of the Superb, the boot, always an important consideration for caravanners, is big enough to get lost in – but if even this isn’t large enough, the estate tow car version of the Škoda has a boot that’s big enough to live in.
How does a Škoda Superb Mk3 drive?
When launched, the Superb was available with a range of engines, starting with a 1.4-litre turbo petrol that produced 123bhp or 148bhp, or a 2.0-litre turbo petrol with up to 276bhp.
In 2018, the 1.4 was replaced with a newer 1.5 turbo petrol. There’s also a 2.0-litre turbodiesel, which has a range of power outputs, and the 148bhp version is our preferred engine.
This produces 251lb ft of torque between 1750 and 3000rpm, which makes it ideal for towing duties, although performance can be slightly hampered by the long gearing.
The Superb may be big, but it isn’t heavy, at 1485kg. Even so, it’s a stable and assured car that remains largely unaffected by side winds when towing. Hill starts are easy, thanks to the electric parking brake, and the steering is light and accurate, making it ideal for manoeuvring.
Driven solo, the Superb is a relaxing companion. It’s quiet and comfortable, and the optional DSG automatic gearbox shifts smoothly. But be wary – there have been reliability niggles with this transmission.
What will a Skoda Superb Mk3 tow?
- Kerbweight: 1485kg
- Towing limit: 2000kg
- Noseweight limit: 90kg
- 85% match: 1262kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 19
- Annual VED: £180*
- Average economy: 65.7mpg
- Interim/full service: £80/£116
Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262
*Price is for cars registered after 1 April 2017. £35 for cars registered before this date
What to pay
- High: price: £38,000; model: 2022 2.0 TSI Laurin & Klement; miles: 6800
- Sweet spot: price: £16,500; model: 2018 2.0 TDI SE Technology; miles: 36,500
- Low: price: £5990; model: 2016 2.0 TDI SE; miles: 150,000
Trouble spots
The Superb has been back to Škoda dealerships a few times, so it’s worth making sure that all of the recall work has been carried out.
Early cars were recalled because the sunroof could close with too much force when shut from outside the car, with the potential to cause injury.
A loose bolt in the brake pedal system necessitated another recall, as did airbags that had the potential to inflate too slowly.
A full list of recalls can be found at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
Verdict
The Škoda Superb lives up to its name as a tow car: there is virtually nothing it does wrong. The only slight blot on its copybook is that it’s quite light, which can restrict what you will be able to tow with it.
However, it’s spacious and well equipped, and it has quiet and efficient powertrains.
Looking for new pair of mirrors for your next tour? Then check out our caravan towing mirrors guide to see our top picks on the market.
Or you could try:
- Used Hyundai Santa Fe Mk3: if you’re looking for some hassle-free towing, this Hyundai could be well-worth considering.
- Used Mercedes C-Class Estate: this excellently finished vehicle is ideal for towing and every day use.
- Used Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer: if you want a capable and reliable towing option, this Vauxhall is a worthy option.
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