• Latest updates keep the dashboard on trend
• Quality matches Volkswagen Passat’s interior
• Alluring choice of trims and upholstery

How is the quality and layout?

The Skoda Superb’s cabin borders on excellent, with strong geometric lines that complement those of the bodywork. Yes, there are some firmer plastics around the lower reaches but in most areas your fingertips will be delighted as you probe the soft-touch materials and experience the well-damped switchgear.

In fact, some think the Superb’s interior is superior to the VW Passat‘s – it just looks and feels a little more special, at least in higher-spec trims. The climate control system in particular is very easy to use, perhaps the best of any Volkswagen Group vehicle at present.

Infotainment and tech

Most models have conventional instruments of exceptional clarity, but top-spec cars get Skoda’s Virtual Cockpit digital dials that offer a variety of displays to scroll between.

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The main infotainment display is large and crisp, with a variety of sizes available. They’re all easy to use, but we’d avoid spending the extra on the largest 9.2-inch system. It comes with a slightly less user-friendly interface that features fewer shortcuts around the outside of the screen than the smaller 8.0-inch option. That said, it’s still slick and it’s testament to the car’s impressive all-round ability that this is one of the few things to pick on.

Comfort

• Front and rear passengers have oodles of room
• Seats are supportive and great for long-distance comfort
• More room inside than all similarly-priced rivals

Wherever you sit you’ll feel like you’ve got a good deal, with ample room without elbows or heads grazing the door panels and headlining. The quality of fit and finish adds to the sense of comfort, with well-damped controls and a reassuring thunk when you close the doors.

Many models are luxuriously-appointed with heated leather seats, which can also be cooled at extra cost, while depending on the specification you plump for, the climate control can regulate up to three different interior zones.

It is worth mentioning again that the seats are quite high, which won’t suit everyone’s favoured driving position. And although refinement is good, you still get some road noise filtering into the cabin at higher speeds, prompting you to turn up the stereo.