My company car, a Superb 1.9Tdi 105 has currently covered 82,000 miles in 28 months, consequently, our fleet manager has given the green light to a replacement being ordered early, especially as a factory ordered VAG car can take up to 6 months to be delivered.

Whilst my remapped 1.9Tdi has been faultless and for the past 25,000 miles has averaged 56 mpg (actual not MFD), I have yet to drive s Superb with the 1.6Tdi CR engine. Whilst the tax and economy benefits of the 1.6Tdi are attractive, I am tempted by the possibly of either a 140/170CR, which will easily remap to 180/200 bhp. The flip side is increased emissions and lower economy.

We lease our cars where the company set a £425 monthly rental limit, but does allow drivers to upgrade by 5% of the monthly rental, subject to the additional cost multiplied by 48 months (plus VAT) being paid as a lump sum at the time of ordering.

I'd like to stay with Skoda, but would not rule out a 3 Series or Passat. My shortlist is as follows:-

1) Superb 140CR S/SE hatchback or estate- good compromise between power and economy

2) Superb 170CR SE hatchback- tempting for the power/torque

3) Superb 1.6CR S/SE/Elegance hatch/ estate- highly tax efficient and fewer trips to the pumps

4) Octy 170CR vRS hatchback- fun, but not as rewarding as the petrol version

5) Passat 1.6CR S/SE saloon- 6 speed gearbox, 70 litre tank= 1,000 mile range, but no twin door versatility, folding seat back not standard on 'S'

6) Passat 1.6CR estate- As above, but estate versatility, lack of standard kit ie. no cruise or lumbar

7) Passat 2.0 S/SE saloon- tax efficient (13%), but no twin door

8) 3 Series 316D/318D ES saloon- drivers car, but not as reliable or well built according to owner forums, limitations of boot

I've already discounted the Golf, Jetta, Leon, A3 and Exeo on the basis of being either too small, dull, old, clinical and recycled respectively.

At least I don't need to make a rushed decision. I would welcome the opinion of others.

Incidentally, the Octy vRS would require a contribution, as would a Superb 170CR, Passat SE and 318d ES.

Edited 11 June, 201115 yr by veloplus

I looked at the Superb Elegance Estate in both the CR140 and CR170, I ruled out the greenline simply because I couldn't get the options I wanted, but I did drive a PD105 and was pretty impressed with the engine considering it is such a large car.

If the fuel economy is not an issue then it has to be a CR170, just be aware it drives completely different to a PD - there is NO shove in the back when you accelerate like in a PD, and real life fuel figures are currently giving 45mpg (actual), this is a BIG difference to what you are currently getting - if your car was only getting 46mpg then it would of cost the fuel payer another £2.5k in fuel alone (working on 105k / 3 years).

However if the fuel figures are going to be an issue then I would be very seriously tempted in looking at the 'new' 1.6CR, this could potentially be even more economical than your current car, but less fun to drive - unless you re-map that one as well

I looked at the Superb Elegance Estate in both the CR140 and CR170, I ruled out the greenline simply because I couldn't get the options I wanted, but I did drive a PD105 and was pretty impressed with the engine considering it is such a large car.

If the fuel economy is not an issue then it has to be a CR170, just be aware it drives completely different to a PD - there is NO shove in the back when you accelerate like in a PD, and real life fuel figures are currently giving 45mpg (actual), this is a BIG difference to what you are currently getting - if your car was only getting 46mpg then it would of cost the fuel payer another £2.5k in fuel alone (working on 105k / 3 years).

However if the fuel figures are going to be an issue then I would be very seriously tempted in looking at the 'new' 1.6CR, this could potentially be even more economical than your current car, but less fun to drive - unless you re-map that one as well

Thanks for your views. I think the 170CR might hurt my wallet too much, especially as my commuting/private mileage averages around £130 per month based on an average of 56mpg. Opting for a 170CR would mean my personal fuel bill would increase by £33 a month. Perhaps a remapped 140CR driven sensibly would yield 52+mpg?

For a change the Superb estate would be a consideration. It does look more attractive than the hatchback, even if the hatchback boot space is plenty large enough for bicycles and skips runs.

I can see I may need to have a 105CR and 140CR for an extended, ideally back to back test drive.

Edited 11 June, 201115 yr by veloplus

Look at the SE plus models.

Look at the SE plus models.

I have, however, the leasing cost is higher than Elegance, possibly because it is a new trim level.

I was in a similar situation Veloplus - albeit with a fully funded company car, I still had a limit of £380 plus a secondary limit of 145g/km.

Originally I had decided that the Skoda Superb was out based on the emissions and subsequent/potential tax increases. However, once I had actually seen the company car list and releaised I needed a choice from 233 variants, my mind was soon changed!

I was replacing a 116k Octavia Estate 1.9 TDi - once I had discounted, like you, the Golf, Jetta, Leon, Touran, A1 and A3, I was left with the following:

1. Variety of Octavia (Good range upto 2.0 140 inc DSG)
   
2. Variety of Superb (Greenline and upto 2.0 140 SE)
   
3. Bog standard Audi A4 (saloon only)
   
4. SEAT Exeo Sport Tech (again saloon only)
   
5. BMW 316d Estate
   
6. BMW 318d saloon
   
7. VW Passat (new model)
   

I quickly crossed out the A4 and although I like the Exeo because I wanted another estate (purely for the practicality reasons) that was crossed out also. Then having reviewed the specs and space on the BMWs they were also ruled out - considering that everyone raves about the 3 series, the space is actually very poor.

I would have liked a better specc'd Octy with a DSG but when I noticed that I could have a Superb Estate in SE trim with 2.0 TDi 140 engine, my mind was pretty much made up. Having re-considered the fact of the company car tax and the relatively high emissions (especially compared to the engines in the VWs) I plumped for a Candy White Estate with sunset glass and heated front seats. There were plenty more options I could have taken but felt that as the spec count was already high, I would just be adding things for the sake of it. This was all done without even (a) sitting in one or ( test driving one. I spoke to a few friends and picked up valuable information from here and ultimately that led me to my decision.

So given your list above, I think you have already made your mind up between Superb 1.6 or 2.0.

HTH, sorry for the ramble.

Cripes we are all going through the same decision process. Looking for Estate auto transmission.

I quickly discounted Audi A4, A3, BMW 1 and 3 series, Golf,

Came down to

Superb up to 140PS Elegance with DSG

Octavia up to L&K as above

New Passat up to Sport again 140PS DSG

Fleet manager threw a left field suggstion of New Focus Titanium X 163PS with Powershift.

New Focus discounted simply due to that dash layout and appearance. :shudder:

Octavia next to go on the basis it's not a Superb but the pricing seems odd.

Down to Passat and Superb and still wavering.

Passat is very nice to drive but have only driven LHD manuals, and I suspect that its mega fuel economy only comes from high gearing and the way that annoying gear change indicator wants you to potter along at 1100 rpm with the engine not feeling happy at all. Change gear in what is to me a more mechanically sympathetic way and the fuel consumption acc MFD looks to be much more normal. Presumably the DSG would stop that, BUT at the expense of fuel economy.

Just to eliminate the 1.6 ltr options I drove quite a few VAG and didn't get on with them tbh, posted about the A1 experience on another thread.

But it is a nice car all said and done BUT, and here comes the J-LO sized but(t), on my commute to work I see two new Passat Estates same colour that I would have every morning. Common.

Which leaves the Superb.

have, like so many others, wavred and wobbled between Mocha and Ivory, and this and that, and the other, and late last night I finally found a photo of Ivory interior with the black carpets. No chance.

So it's going to be Candy White Combi, Black Interior, Luxon, heated rear seats 140PS DSG..... (I think)

or maybe Cappuccino....

But then Mocha with Ivory and Ivory carpets would look ace, but need black mats.

arggh

Sorry for my ramble AND indecision.

From what you're written, and taking into consideration your fairly massive annual mileage - it would be the Superb for me as well. Again, based on what you have at the moment, the 140CR would seem to give the best compromise. I would also favour the Combi, just because I like the shape better

I would test the 1.6CR as well though, just so you're covering the options. It seems to get decent reviews, but as ever - it depends what your benchmark is - and what you're used to and comparing it against. I also see some remapping options emerging for it as well.

On the other options, a 316/318D is not a driver's car, just for the record. It doesn't have enough power to be a proper BMW I'm afraid. The chassis and RWD layout simply doesn't have chance to shine with that level of power output. You'll also find it cramped and not particularly well equipped, especially when compared to an Elegance spec.

The Octy I would consider, but I'd put myself in a Superb for covering that amount of miles, and time spent in the car. The Passat bores me rigid - so that's it out for me...

Any help?!

I was in a similar situation Veloplus - albeit with a fully funded company car, I still had a limit of £380 plus a secondary limit of 145g/km.

Originally I had decided that the Skoda Superb was out based on the emissions and subsequent/potential tax increases. However, once I had actually seen the company car list and releaised I needed a choice from 233 variants, my mind was soon changed!

I was replacing a 116k Octavia Estate 1.9 TDi - once I had discounted, like you, the Golf, Jetta, Leon, Touran, A1 and A3, I was left with the following:

1. Variety of Octavia (Good range upto 2.0 140 inc DSG)
   
2. Variety of Superb (Greenline and upto 2.0 140 SE)
   
3. Bog standard Audi A4 (saloon only)
   
4. SEAT Exeo Sport Tech (again saloon only)
   
5. BMW 316d Estate
   
6. BMW 318d saloon
   
7. VW Passat (new model)
   

I quickly crossed out the A4 and although I like the Exeo because I wanted another estate (purely for the practicality reasons) that was crossed out also. Then having reviewed the specs and space on the BMWs they were also ruled out - considering that everyone raves about the 3 series, the space is actually very poor.

I would have liked a better specc'd Octy with a DSG but when I noticed that I could have a Superb Estate in SE trim with 2.0 TDi 140 engine, my mind was pretty much made up. Having re-considered the fact of the company car tax and the relatively high emissions (especially compared to the engines in the VWs) I plumped for a Candy White Estate with sunset glass and heated front seats. There were plenty more options I could have taken but felt that as the spec count was already high, I would just be adding things for the sake of it. This was all done without even (a) sitting in one or ( test driving one. I spoke to a few friends and picked up valuable information from here and ultimately that led me to my decision.

So given your list above, I think you have already made your mind up between Superb 1.6 or 2.0.

HTH, sorry for the ramble.

Before my current Superb 1.9Tdi, I had an Octy II with the same engine, which was defleeted at 115,000 miles.

It is a shame the 2 litre Superb diesels do no benefit from Stop/Start, battery regeneration, as with Passat's and A3's, as this would make a 140CR a real no brainer. I imagine this is just a matter of time as the drive for ever lower emissions spreads throughout all VAG vehicles.

SE spec is quite generous and the part Alcantara upholstery makes a change from the normal woven cloth found on most trim levels.

The BMW boot is a very odd shape, while the Passat 'S' saloon doesn't have folding seat backs to increase load capacity as standard.

Cripes we are all going through the same decision process. Looking for Estate auto transmission.

I quickly discounted Audi A4, A3, BMW 1 and 3 series, Golf,

Came down to

Superb up to 140PS Elegance with DSG

Octavia up to L&K as above

New Passat up to Sport again 140PS DSG

Fleet manager threw a left field suggstion of New Focus Titanium X 163PS with Powershift.

New Focus discounted simply due to that dash layout and appearance. :shudder:

Octavia next to go on the basis it's not a Superb but the pricing seems odd.

Down to Passat and Superb and still wavering.

Passat is very nice to drive but have only driven LHD manuals, and I suspect that its mega fuel economy only comes from high gearing and the way that annoying gear change indicator wants you to potter along at 1100 rpm with the engine not feeling happy at all. Change gear in what is to me a more mechanically sympathetic way and the fuel consumption acc MFD looks to be much more normal. Presumably the DSG would stop that, BUT at the expense of fuel economy.

Just to eliminate the 1.6 ltr options I drove quite a few VAG and didn't get on with them tbh, posted about the A1 experience on another thread.

But it is a nice car all said and done BUT, and here comes the J-LO sized but(t), on my commute to work I see two new Passat Estates same colour that I would have every morning. Common.

Which leaves the Superb.

have, like so many others, wavred and wobbled between Mocha and Ivory, and this and that, and the other, and late last night I finally found a photo of Ivory interior with the black carpets. No chance.

So it's going to be Candy White Combi, Black Interior, Luxon, heated rear seats 140PS DSG..... (I think)

or maybe Cappuccino....

But then Mocha with Ivory and Ivory carpets would look ace, but need black mats.

arggh

Sorry for my ramble AND indecision.

A Superb 140CR DSG is out of the question as our company car policy restricts emissions to 150g/km.

I must admit, I do like Mocha which seems to suit both the hatchback and estate/combi. If I opted for Elegance I'd probably choose black leather due to having a four year old son who likes to clamber all over the seats!

An estate is also appealing, but hard to justify when the twin door hatchback is almost as capacious, but admittedly is not as attracively styled.

A Focus will be a good drive, however, I agree; the new dash is dreadful, especially with the mobile phone inspired centre panel with hundredesds of tiny buttons! The same is true of the currnet Mondeo; the clear instruments went out with the last model.

From what you're written, and taking into consideration your fairly massive annual mileage - it would be the Superb for me as well. Again, based on what you have at the moment, the 140CR would seem to give the best compromise. I would also favour the Combi, just because I like the shape better

I would test the 1.6CR as well though, just so you're covering the options. It seems to get decent reviews, but as ever - it depends what your benchmark is - and what you're used to and comparing it against. I also see some remapping options emerging for it as well.

On the other options, a 316/318D is not a driver's car, just for the record. It doesn't have enough power to be a proper BMW I'm afraid. The chassis and RWD layout simply doesn't have chance to shine with that level of power output. You'll also find it cramped and not particularly well equipped, especially when compared to an Elegance spec.

The Octy I would consider, but I'd put myself in a Superb for covering that amount of miles, and time spent in the car. The Passat bores me rigid - so that's it out for me...

Any help?!

Thanks for your advise. I think I need to test a 1.6Tdi Superb to see how it compares to my 1.9 Pumper. I know common rail is different to Pump Duse, although, CR is here to stay.

I suppose the 3 Series is overhyped by the adverts and magazines, however, if I could choose a 330D Touring it might be another matter!

A Passat 1.6CR Estate might be a possibility, however, the spec is miserly and even SE spec is no match for a Superb SE.

Edited 11 June, 201115 yr by veloplus

Thanks for your advise. I think I need to test a 1.6Tdi Superb to see how it compares to my 1.9 Pumper. I know common rail is different to Pump Duse, altohugh, CR is here to stay.

I suppose the 3 Series is overhyped by the adverts and magazines, however, if I could choose a 330D Touring it might be another matter!

A Passat 1.6CR Estate might be a possibility, however, the spec is miserly and even SE spec is no match for a Superb SE.

A CR unit will make your existing PD105 seem pretty agricultural

The BMW diesel engines are excellent, and still a fair way ahead in terms of economy too. But that's the only plus point of the 316/318d. A 330d is indeed a lovely thing - but so it should be at just short of £34k for a standard SE Touring

I can't see any possible reason to consider the 1.6CR Passat Estate. OK you get the VW badge which for some is important....

I can't see any possible reason to consider the 1.6CR Passat Estate. OK you get the VW badge which for some is important....

Based on £ for £ and spec for spec I'd rather have a Skoda over a VW - the recent range additions and changes at VW have resulted (IMO) lower spec levels.

I can't see any possible reason to consider the 1.6CR Passat Estate. OK you get the VW badge which for some is important....

Slightly higher BIK% from next year, this year they are the same.

Plus a slighter higher P11D value for the 2.0ltr.

About £14 a month on your tax if higher rate, square root of stuff all frankly.

Based on £ for £ and spec for spec I'd rather have a Skoda over a VW - the recent range additions and changes at VW have resulted (IMO) lower spec levels.

I had a sit in a Superb Estate 1.6CR SE in a North Birmingham Skoda showroom. It was an sttractive car, even in metallic black of which I'm not a fan.

It is useful having seat backs which can fold flat (although, admittedly with a small step), unllike on the hatchback which has a fixed seat squab. I enquired about the Variable Load Floor, however, the salesman said it wasn't hugely popular.

The leasing company responded extremely quickly to my demonstrator request and have agreed to deliver a Superb Estate 1.6CR SE Greenline to my home address. They impose no mileage limit, unlike a Ford demonstrator in a previous year, so I'll be able to give it a proper drive.

Using the leasing company's configurator I can choose SE spec, metallic paint, plus a few extras, whilst still remaining within budget. This means the Pasaat Estate is becoming a far weaker contender. With a Passat Estate I'd be restricted to solid paint and only be able to add cruise and lumbar adjustment. Incidentally, has anyone else noticed that lumbar adjustment is no longer standard on 'S' spec Superbs? Mine has this feature, together with front passenger seat Isofix mounts; also missing from current specifications.

I had a sit in a Superb Estate 1.6CR SE in a North Birmingham Skoda showroom. It was an sttractive car, even in metallic black of which I'm not a fan.

It is useful having seat backs which can fold flat (although, admittedly with a small step), unllike on the hatchback which has a fixed seat squab. I enquired about the Variable Load Floor, however, the salesman said it wasn't hugely popular.

The leasing company responded extremely quickly to my demonstrator request and have agreed to deliver a Superb Estate 1.6CR SE Greenline to my home address. They impose no mileage limit, unlike a Ford demonstrator in a previous year, so I'll be able to give it a proper drive.

Using the leasing company's configurator I can choose SE spec, metallic paint, plus a few extras, whilst still remaining within budget. This means the Pasaat Estate is becoming a far weaker contender. With a Passat Estate I'd be restricted to solid paint and only be able to add cruise and lumbar adjustment. Incidentally, has anyone else noticed that lumbar adjustment is no longer standard on 'S' spec Superbs? Mine has this feature, together with front passenger seat Isofix mounts; also missing from current specifications.

Looks like the Passat is falling further and further out of your options - your company car scheme sounds very similar to ours, who are you using our of interest, I am with Tusker Direct. Everything is done online but didn't actually think to question whether or not I could get a demonstrator With my monthly lease, even with the Skoda I had to opt for solid paint (Candy White) so that I could get a few toys (sunset glass and heated seats) but having seen Dekagon's Candy White estate I think it will look good.

Let us know when you've had a test drive in the 1.6, I will be interested to hear your thoughts, even though I won't be changing my mind, I'd like to hear what it's like.

Si

I would personally stay off any VAG 2.0 diesel engine also the new ones. The oil pump will eventually fail and it will take time and money.

Go for the BMW no doubt about it.

I would personally stay off any VAG 2.0 diesel engine also the new ones. The oil pump will eventually fail and it will take time and money.

Go for the BMW no doubt about it.

Nothing beats a 1.9Tdi Pumper for reliability! No DPF is also a rarity these days. If I were a taxi driver after a good used buy, I'd not hesitate to snap up my current Superb in 3-6 months time when I'm guessing it'll be worth around £4-5k with circa 100k miles.

A 3 Series Touring might have been in contention, however, the saloon boot is poorly shaped and the rear passenger space only average.

Looks like the Passat is falling further and further out of your options - your company car scheme sounds very similar to ours, who are you using our of interest, I am with Tusker Direct. Everything is done online but didn't actually think to question whether or not I could get a demonstrator With my monthly lease, even with the Skoda I had to opt for solid paint (Candy White) so that I could get a few toys (sunset glass and heated seats) but having seen Dekagon's Candy White estate I think it will look good.

Let us know when you've had a test drive in the 1.6, I will be interested to hear your thoughts, even though I won't be changing my mind, I'd like to hear what it's like.

Si

Our company cars are leased from Leasedrive Velo. We used to use HSBC, however, Velo customer service is signifcantly better. I transgressed concerning the congestion charge, however, Velo presented my appeal to TfL and as a result the fine was quashed!

I've booked demos drive in both a Superb Estate 1.6Tdi SE and Passat Eatsate 1.6Tdi S. Skoda slotted in a demo in two weeks time, while I've have to wait another 4 weeks to drive a Passat. I'm keen to know how the Passat drives with its 6 speed 'box, when compared to the Superb's 5 speeds.

To be honest, I'm 90% decided on another Superb, but am undecided between the following variants:-

Hatchback 1.6Tdi Elegance (lots of kit as standard)

Estate 1.6Ti SE (all the kit you really need)

Estate 2.0Tdi S (can include all the essentials ie. cruise, Maxidot, full size spare! hard wearing cloth trim, remap potential , but higher BIK tax band :(

Altohugh I like the twin door versatility of the hatch, the estate is definitiely a looker and a change from a hatch. Not sure if leather would be good with a toddler and I'm not convinced Columbus is worth the cost, being a fan of TomTom. Xenons would be good, but I'd lose the Bolero's 6 CD changer unless I paid to have the boot mounted changer. I know I could use a iPod, however, I think it's safer to use the Bolero's touchscreen rather than tryin gto read the ipod's display whilst driving.

Today, I saw my first Mocha Superb Estate which looked very classy, especially with the chrome roof rails.

I'll post a review of both demos cars in due course.

Edited 14 June, 201115 yr by veloplus

Altohugh I like the twin door versatility of the hatch, the estate is definitiely a looker and a change from a hatch. Not sure if leather would be god with a toddler and I'm not convinced Columbus is worth the cost, being a fan of TomTom. Xenons would be good, but I'd lose the Bolero's 6 CD changer unless I paid to have the boot mounted changer. I know I could use a iPod, however, I think it's safer to use the Bolero's touchscreen rather than tryin gto read the ipod's display whilst driving.

Why not get Bolero+MDI? That way you can control your ipod through bolero

Why not get Bolero+MDI? That way you can control your ipod through bolero

Thanks for your suggestion, however, I don't actually own an ipod. I suppose I could buy an Ipod and connect it to either Bolero or Columbus via a MDI connection. To be honest, I'm quite happy with a choice of 6 six CDs to shuffle through, rather than 600 tracks on an ipod. Yes, I know I'm probably in a minority.

Agreed - I thought about MDI but given you also have an SD card slot, it's just as simple to put tracks onto that. Plus I don't regularly play all the tracks on my iPod - only really current ones.

Save the cash and pick another option!!

Agreed - I thought about MDI but given you also have an SD card slot, it's just as simple to put tracks onto that. Plus I don't regularly play all the tracks on my iPod - only really current ones.

Save the cash and pick another option!!

Fair point, however, Bolero (with its SD slot) is standard equipment on SE models, however, MDI is an optional extra!

Today, I drove a colleagues Octy 140 CR. It has been 2.5 years since I last drove an Octy and it brought back happy memories.

The 140 CR impressed me with its refinement and ample power, although the CR engine lacks the elasticity of my current 1.9Tdi. After a 15 mile drive on dual carriageway, the MFD was showing just over 60mpg. My collaegue says he regularly sees 70mpg on his 30+ mile motorway journey home.

I am thinking a 140 CR 'S' hatchback might be preferable to the Greenline 1.6 Tdi S/SE, although, each car has its merits:-

1.6 CR Greenline S/SE

13% BIK for the current tax year

Superior fuel economy (75+ achievable)

Less body roll due to lowered suspension

Greater range (850+ miles)

2.0 140 CR S

Increased power & torque

Immediate remap potential

Should be quieter at speed due to six speed gearbox (70mph = 1,800rpm)

Option of factory supplied full size 16" spare wheel

Better ride quality due to standard springs/ride height

I'm inclined to dismiss the Estate, purely because I don't really need the extra carrying capacity, and also because the BIK rate is 1% higher with the 140 CR. In addition, the hatchback is over a £1,000 cheaper than the hatch which leaves more of the monthly lease budget for desirable options.

So,in a straw poll, which of the two above versions would people chose, and why?

Edited 14 June, 201115 yr by veloplus

The 2.0 140 CR. All day long. If you are covering a high mileage you will soon appreciate the extra power, refinement and 6-speed box; especially if you ever want to overtake anything. There is no substitute for CCs.

I had to make a similar choice recently and wasted no time in opting to pay for an upgrade to a 2.0.