skoda superb 01

More surfacing the Chinese way. The facelifted second-generation Skoda Superb will be making its world premiere at Auto China in Shanghai later this month, and both Hatch (or liftback, if you will) and Estate variants are set to hold side mirrors and make their first showing together.

The rework boasts a completely new front and rear, with the front of the car having been completely redesigned up to the A-pillar – the grille, car logo, headlamps, fog lights, bumpers, front wings and bonnet are all new. The rear, meanwhile, gets tidier lines, aided by new rear light graphics, with LED stripes helping to shape things up.

Two new metallic finishes – Meteor Grey and Moon White – have been added to the colour palette, and the facelift gets new 16- and 18-inch alloy wheel designs to dress things up further.

Inside, new interior fabrics and patterns for the seat covers are to be found, and the car’s highest level of trim features a new Skoda Superb Laurin & Klement (L&K) brown-ivory colour combination.

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A number of engine options are on call for the European market, starting with an entry-level 125 PS 1.4 TSI lump. Diesel variants such as the 2.0 TDI 140 PS and 2.0 TDI 170 PS feature Start–stop and kinetic energy recuperation as standard.

The two-stage TwinDoor tailgate in the Superb Hatch (strange sounding, that suffix) has been retained, but a number of new things find their way on to the car, like the ability to move the front passenger seat from the rear electronically. Other fresh equipment includes the latest-generation Park Assist, which supports both parallel and reverse bay parking.

The Hatch gets an electric sunroof with integrated solar cells, while the Estate has an electric panoramic sunroof. Other bits on the kit list are an automatic lock and start system, KESSY (keyless entry) and a veritable spread of audio and navigation system choices.

Safety-wise, the five-star Euro NCAP-rated Superb features up to nine airbags, with ESP, ABS and Brake Assist standard fitment. An electronic Tyre Pressure Monitor (TPM) is also fitted as standard on higher trim level variants, while optional items include an Adaptive Frontlight System (AFS) and Hill Hold Control.