The 2025 Skoda Superb Sportline arrives in Australia as the Czech brand’s flagship sedan and wagon offering, bringing substantial updates to both design and technology while maintaining the spacious practicality that has defined the model. Our Australian first drive reveals a vehicle that successfully balances executive comfort with sporting dynamics, though not without some compromises.
Performance Credentials: Power Meets Efficiency
Under the hood, the Sportline features Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 195kW of power and 400Nm of torque. While this represents an 11kW decrease from the previous generation, the extra 50Nm of torque more than compensates for the missing kilowatts, delivering improved mid-range punch that benefits real-world driving scenarios.
The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission has been upgraded from the previous six-speed unit, providing smoother shifts and better fuel economy. This powertrain configuration is shared with the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Tiguan R-Line in Australia, ensuring proven reliability and parts availability.
During our test drive, the Sportline demonstrated impressive acceleration and refinement, though real-world fuel consumption averaged closer to 9.0L/100km compared to Skoda’s claimed 7.7L/100km for the sedan and 7.8L/100km for the wagon. This variance reflects the engaging nature of the powertrain that encourages spirited driving.
Dynamic Chassis Control: Adaptive Excellence
The standout feature of the Sportline package is the new Dynamic Chassis Control Plus (DCC Plus) adaptive suspension, which allows for 15 levels of damping firmness, allowing the Superb to morph from plush executive car to sharp grand tourer. This system transforms the vehicle’s character depending on driving conditions and preferences.
In comfort mode, the suspension soaks up road imperfections with remarkable composure, while sport settings sharpen handling response without compromising ride quality excessively. The adaptive damping works seamlessly with the drive mode selection, providing a cohesive driving experience that adapts to both urban commuting and spirited country road driving.
Interior Refinement and Technology
The Sportline’s cabin showcases Skoda’s attention to detail and quality improvement. Standard equipment highlights include Matrix LED headlights, a unique three-spoke leather steering wheel, plenty of Sportline logos, a black headliner, carbon door and dashboard trim, sport pedals and ambient lighting. The materials feel premium throughout, with soft-touch surfaces and well-executed trim pieces.
The large 13-inch infotainment system dominates the dashboard, providing intuitive operation and crisp graphics. The system responds quickly to inputs and integrates seamlessly with smartphone connectivity options, though some traditional physical controls have been sacrificed for the digital interface.
Practical Considerations
The Superb offers huge luggage space, assured handling and surprisingly good interior materials and comfort, making it an excellent choice for families who prefer sedan or wagon body styles over SUVs. The rear seat space remains generous, easily accommodating adult passengers on longer journeys.
However, our test revealed some areas for improvement. Tyre noise proved noticeable, as our tester’s Goodyear rubber transmitted a fair bit of tyre roar into the cabin, exacerbated by coarser-chip roads. While sound deadening is generally effective, road noise intrusion can detract from the premium experience during highway cruising.
Market Position and Value
The current Superb Sportline is offered in a liftback/sedan body style from $69,990 drive-away, with the more popular wagon costing an additional $2000 at $71,990 drive-away. This pricing positions the Sportline competitively against premium sedans and wagons, offering substantial equipment levels and space advantages.
The Sportline represents the pinnacle of Skoda’s sedan and wagon range, sitting above the Octavia in both size and specification. For Australian buyers seeking a non-SUV alternative that doesn’t compromise on space or refinement, the Superb Sportline presents a compelling proposition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What engine powers the 2025 Skoda Superb Sportline in Australia? A: The Sportline uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 195kW of power and 400Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This is the same EA888 unit found in the VW Golf GTI and Tiguan R-Line.
Q: How much does the 2025 Skoda Superb Sportline cost in Australia? A: The sedan starts from $69,990 drive-away, while the wagon variant costs $71,990 drive-away. Both prices represent good value considering the extensive standard equipment and space on offer.
Q: What makes the Sportline different from standard Superb models? A: The Sportline features Dynamic Chassis Control Plus adaptive suspension with 15 damping levels, unique styling elements including carbon trim, sport pedals, Sportline badging, Matrix LED headlights, and a distinctive three-spoke leather steering wheel with black headliner.
Q: What is the fuel consumption of the 2025 Superb Sportline? A: Skoda claims 7.7L/100km for the sedan and 7.8L/100km for the wagon, though real-world testing suggests consumption closer to 9.0L/100km during mixed driving conditions, particularly when taking advantage of the engaging powertrain.