Looking for a family car that's also fun to drive and doesn't cost an arm and a leg. I thought I'd settled on a Golf Rel until I'd seen what a thief magnet they are and until I discovered how much of a step up looks wise the Superb Sportsline was.

 

I have a dilemma though.

 

The plan is to keep this car for the next 7-8 years so I have no problem buying it new but I have some questions that i need your expert advice on:

 

- been told by a dealer that they aren't taking orders on the new 280 (or should I call it the 272?) For another 4 weeks and after that we're looking at another 16 weeks before it arrives. Half a year almost. Is that normal? Would it make more sense to go for a lightly used 2018 version second hand or get the updated model with the extras I want?

- will the drop in HP be noticeable?

- is the new particulate filter going to be a problem? Most of our journeys are short ones

- will getting it in velvet red make it any more or less attractive to thieves? I know its impossible yo complete avoid thieves but seeing the lengths people go to to steal the golf R (home invasions with weapons) I'm keen to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

 

Any help v appreciated!

The scum that steal cars will always be there, regardless of it is a beat up Corsa or something top end. 

Very difficult to predict what they will target, and what one crook likes, might be different to next crook

 

Regarding a 280 (or new 272) availability will be big factor

If you want it soon, going to have to search all the used car web sites and Skoda used website

 

If you can wait 6 months then can do a factory order

 

I suggest you also register with things like carwow, you then get email of some that are similar sitting in compounds and sometimes dealers list cars that don't otherwise come up such as in showrooms

However as order books are currently closed, these stocks might have been used up.

 

If you are keeping it for 8 years don't be misled by deals or PCPs that are 2 or 3  years.   You will be paying for it completely, so lower initial monthly means more to pay later on.  HP is often not advertised, (dealers push PCPs due to commission), but is inevitably available.   It is often cheaper to do a 5 year loan with your bank as some are doing rates of 3-4%   (Don't forget you can take a PCP to claim a discount, and pay off within 14 days, then fund using cheaper bank loan.

 

 

 

 

Edited 9 October, 20187 yr by SurreyJohn

27 minutes ago, Fantantonio said:

seeing the lengths people go to to steal the golf R (home invasions with weapons) I'm keen to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

This is the exact reason we cancelled our R estate order.

Happened to a friend of a guy i work with within a day of placing it. Don't want to be worrying about that with a child in the house!

Got the deposit back and went straight for a MY19 272 Sportline Plus. - I've been assured the 8ps wont be noticeable in the real world and is probably more than offset by the 7spd dsg.

(I was very wary of this coming from a lighter 280 cupra estate - yet the 0-60 is faster on the Superb...)

We wanted so many extras and wanted to know it's not been abused by a previous owner, so new was the only option for us.

20 weeks is quite usual at the moment. - i have it on good authority that min'e being built next week, so hopefully it should be here before Christmas!! 

We are all going to have to wait and see on the GPF front, but by all accounts the petrols get up to operating temp much quicker, so will still be better for shorter journeys.

21 minutes ago, SurreyJohn said:

The scum that steal cars will always be there, regardless of it is a beat up Corsa or something top end.

 

 

 

Don't forget you can take a PCP to claim a discount, and pay off within 14 days, then fund using cheaper bank loan.

 

 

 

 

Interesting...had no idea about the fact you could pay a PCP off before the term. If it's a decent saving (over £1k) it sounds like it's worth the hassle. Thanks for the heads up!

 

On the theft front I would prefer a low key grey one but wife wants something brighter. Just hope the red doesn't make it stand out too much.

 

18 minutes ago, DjEatch said:

This is the exact reason we cancelled our R estate order.

Happened to a friend of a guy i work with within a day of placing it. Don't want to be worrying about that with a child in the house!

Got the deposit back and went straight for a MY19 272 Sportline Plus.

That's terrible luck, poor guy. Hoping that a Superb is a little big for someone to steal for a job, and I doubt they're getting nicked to order as much as the R and the S3. Wishful thinking maybe.

 

Out of interest what options are you going for? Also looking at Sportsline Plus but every set of 'essential' extras I configure look like an extra £5k(!). Even the digital dash is £450. No point in scrimping on extras if you're going to hang onto it for a long time.

Edited 9 October, 20187 yr by Fantantonio

4 minutes ago, Fantantonio said:

Out of interest what options are you going for? Also looking at Sportsline Plus but every set of 'essential' extras I configure look like an extra £5k(!). Even the digital dash is £450. No point in scrimping on extras if you're going to hang onto it for a long time.

Exactly :-) i think we ticked nearly all the boxes - pano roof, DCC, heated wheel, front isofix, heated windscreen..... (took the RRP to £44k! - not paying near that though)

I am gutted that the digi dash still isn't available to order, so it wont be on mine, but will certainly have it on the next.

1 minute ago, DjEatch said:

Exactly :-) i think we ticked nearly all the boxes - pano roof, DCC, heated wheel, front isofix, heated windscreen..... (took the RRP to £44k! - not paying near that though)

I am gutted that the digi dash still isn't available to order, so it wont be on mine, but will certainly have it on the next.

I think it is available - listed as 10.2" screen. I could be wrong though.

 

Out of interest how much are you paying? Coast2Coast gave me a cash price of £37k with alk the options, if I remember correctly.

 

Does the DCC make a big difference? Tempted to go for it.

13 minutes ago, Fantantonio said:

Out of interest what options are you going for? Also looking at Sportsline Plus but every set of 'essential' extras I configure look like an extra £5k(!). Even the digital dash is £450. No point in scrimping on extras if you're going to hang onto it for a long time.

If you are going to put a lot of options onto it, then also check out the L&K model. It's possible, depending on which options you are after, that it could be cheaper than a heavily specified Sportline. 

 

5 minutes ago, Fantantonio said:

Does the DCC make a big difference? Tempted to go for it.

Id urge you to test drive both DCC and non-DCC cars and decide for yourself. Having been a passenger in a non-DCC Superb, I would say DCC is essential, but that is just a personal view. 

I think it's listed on some specs, but it's not actually orderable on the 272 at the moment (before mine's built) :-( Skoda UK confirmed this today.

Yes, we are also at the £37k mark - we went through Carwow and were lucky that all the local dealers responded with pretty much the same price.

Can't say for certain (as i've not tried a non-DCC superb), but I wanted to know i could tighten it up for "sporty" driving and loosen it up on the motorways - especially if we're trying to get the little one to have a nap :-D

 

I'd rather be with it an not need it, than not have it and be cursing it :-) - Our Cupra has it and it certainly has value.

Although if you've never had it you probably wouldn't notice.

Edited 9 October, 20187 yr by DjEatch

Agree 100% on the Golf R.  I wanted the estate but we personally know two people who've been burgled for the keys to theirs.  My wife point blank refused to have one on the drive for that reason alone.  A SEAT Leon ST Cupra 300 4drive was another consideration but it just isn't in the same league of quality or finish as the Superb.  I've owned a Leon ST FR previously and it's easy to understand why you get so much kit for so little cash; it's obvious where the savings are made. 

 

Have you considered a used/nearly new 280?  There's a few on Autotrader and some of which look like good buys, if the spec matches your own requirements.  If you're keeping it for 7-8 years though, you'll likely want to get the *exact* colour/spec you want and I would (read: 'did') too.   A well spec'd 280 with £10-15K off list price and <10k miles on on the clock must be one of the best 'bargains' out there. 

 

I've factory ordered two Sportlines in the last 18 months and both took ~ 4 months from order to collection.  I *just* managed to get my 280 order accepted at the factory, in February.  Others tried to order a week or two after me and the factory rejected the order.  I weighed up the pros and cons of waiting but after a bit of research, phoning Skoda UK and liaising with my dealer it became apparent that I wouldn't see a 272PS until at least October of this year, possibly later.  I'm glad I didn't delay my decision/order. 

 

The GPF is new tech and first gen so could be problematic, it could be faultless but VAG will be trying as hard as possible to not screw the implementation up, considering the scrutiny they are under for the emissions scandal.  This has been talked about a few times on here and the consensus is that the 280 EA888 variant is actually pretty much putting out a similar amount of power to the unit in the Golf R and Cupra 300, so perhaps 300-310bhp.  I've driven the Golf R and Cupra 300 4drive and despite the Superbs weight penalty it doesn't feel any slower.  Just not as sharp or (thankfully) loud.  Would you notice a 7bhp drop?  Well look at most power outputs for the same engine and it's likely that there's a 30-40bhp difference and that's what is regarded as a perceptible difference.  That usually buys a 0.8-1 sec advantage in 0-60 times, so the 272 could be as little as 0.1-0.2 sec slower to 60 or could be just as quick depending on how the 7 spd DSG works Vs the current 6 spd.  Another factor could be that the engine may actually be running closer to it's advertised power output now, seeing as there will be a little bit more scrutiny around the numbers cars are producing but (hopefully) that will be emissions-centric rather than the power/performance though.   I think you'd be hard pushed to notice that much of a difference though, after all there's little in it between the 220/280 unless you you're at the top end of the rev range.   The 7 spd box may actually make the engine even better and improve what's already a great car. 

 

Velvet red is a very nice colour indeed.  Unfortunately the colour pallet for the Superb is limited but I think the gloss black trim of the Sportline lends itself to working with every colour in hatch or estate form.  Whereas some colours don't really work with the chrome trim IMO.  Whichever colour you chose I don't think the colour alone will be a deterrent to thieves, they'll take what they want.   The good thing about the 280 though is that it's almost invisible.  You have to know to look for the twin pipes to know it's a 280, a 190 TDI could just as easily be wearing the 4x4 badge too. 

 

If I was ordering now then I'd go Sportline+ as the standard spec on that is basically what I chose as options on mine.  I think the difference in price is worth it but only if those options work for you.  I worked out the price difference when the Sportline+ was announced and I would have actually been worse off buying the Sportline+ vs the initial Sportline spec and the options I selected but if I got the Sportline+ estate I would have been £50 better off as that includes the retractable boot cover.   I'd not change any of my options but would likely spec the virtual cockpit now but that alone wouldn't be a deal breaker. 

 

Awesome car though and if there's no issues with the GPF then I don't think you'll be disappointed.   

 

 

 

 

Edited 9 October, 20187 yr by penguin17

33 minutes ago, BriskodaJeff said:

If you are going to put a lot of options onto it, then also check out the L&K model. It's possible, depending on which options you are after, that it could be cheaper than a heavily specified Sportline. 

 

Id urge you to test drive both DCC and non-DCC cars and decide for yourself.

Interesting...I assume the L&K won't have the same sporty look through even if you give it bigger wheels and any other exterior options?

 

Does the DCC make a difference in standard mode or only when set to soft or comfort or whatever.

30 minutes ago, penguin17 said:

Have you considered a used/nearly new 280?  There's a few on Autotrader and some of which look like good buys, if the spec matches your own requirements.  If you're keeping it for 7-8 years though, you'll likely want to get the *exact* colour/spec you want and I would (read: 'did') too.   A well spec'd 280 with 10-15K off list price and <10k miles on on the clock must be one of the best 'bargains' out there.

 

The new GPF is new tech and first gen so could be problematic, it could be faultless but VAG will be trying as hard as possible to not screw the implementation up, considering the scrutiny they are under for the emissions scandal.. 

 

Velvet red is a very nice colour indeed.  Unfortunately the colour pallet for the Superb is limited but I think the gloss black trim of the Sportline lends itself to working with every colour in hatch or estate form.  Whereas some colours don't really work with the chrome trim IMO.  Whichever colour you chose I don't think the colour alone will be a deterrent to thieves, they'll take what they want.   The good thing about the 280/272 though is it is almost invisible.  You have to know to look for the twin pipes to know it's a 280, a 190 TDI could just as easily be wearing the 4x4 badge too.

 

Thanks for the in depth info, definitely feel more relaxed about the GPF now! The reason for concern with velvet red was that I thought it was an exclusive colour for the 280 but could be wrong. That said... https://www.ezonomics.com/stories/a_colourful_way_to_deter_thieves1/

5 minutes ago, Fantantonio said:

Interesting...I assume the L&K won't have the same sporty look through even if you give it bigger wheels and any other exterior options?

 

Does the DCC make a difference in standard mode or only when set to soft or comfort or whatever.

Thanks for the in depth info, definitely feel more relaxed about the GPF now! The reason for concern with velvet red was that I thought it was an exclusive colour for the 280 but could be wrong. That said... https://www.ezonomics.com/stories/a_colourful_way_to_deter_thieves1/

Reading that article, you should opt for Dragonskin Green 

Edited 9 October, 20187 yr by penguin17

The only thing I would add to the excellent advice provided by others above, is to be mindful of the £40K VED threshold when calculating total cost of ownership. It's very easy to spec a 280/272 Sportline over this figure which means you will be paying  £450pa for years 2-6.  It's also still unclear what the first year of VED is coming in at yet, due to the 272 not having gained WLTP approval, but my guess is that it will be in at least one bracket higher than the existing rate of £515, so factor that in when getting on the road quotes,.

 

FWIW - I ordered in May and am told delivery in November, but I'm not holding my breath.  I specced a Sportline in Business Grey with DCC, Canton, heated window & front seats, variable boot floor, spare wheel and additional 2 year warranty - RRP at just under 40K.  If there was one option I might have taken in hindsight it might have been a tow bar (for bikes) - a friend has one and its a good system, roof bars will have to do however. Intended as a keeper also. 

 

 

1 minute ago, Chas51 said:

It's also still unclear what the first year of VED is coming in at yet, due to the 272 not having gained WLTP approval

Good point! 

I was working on the assumption that we've agreed an "on the road" price and the 1st year VED should be included in that, so if it goes up, the dealer will have to cover it...

We shall see what happens... although by the time it arrives it may well be illegal to buy an ICE in the UK :-)

5 minutes ago, Chas51 said:

The only thing I would add to the excellent advice provided by others above, is to be mindful of the £40K VED threshold when calculating total cost of ownership. It's very easy to spec a 280/272 Sportline over this figure which means you will be paying  £450pa for years 2-6.  It's also still unclear what the first year of VED is coming in at yet, due to the 272 not having gained WLTP approval, but my guess is that it will be in at least one bracket higher than the existing rate of £515, so factor that in when getting on the road quotes,.

 

FWIW - I ordered in May and am told delivery in November, but I'm not holding my breath.  I specced a Sportline in Business Grey with DCC, Canton, heated window & front seats, variable boot floor, spare wheel and additional 2 year warranty - RRP at just under 40K.  If there was one option I might have taken in hindsight it might have been a tow bar (for bikes) - a friend has one and its a good system, roof bars will have to do however. Intended as a keeper also. 

 

 

What is the current status of your order?  Could you not ask the dealer to see if it's possible to add the tow bar to your options list? 

3 minutes ago, DjEatch said:

Good point! 

I was working on the assumption that we've agreed an "on the road" price and the 1st year VED should be included in that, so if it goes up, the dealer will have to cover it...

We shall see what happens... although by the time it arrives it may well be illegal to buy an ICE in the UK :-)

 

I intimated the same thing to the dealer, but the response was that the WLTP form (that I assume you had to sign also?), states that if the VED band changes the cost may change and you will have the right to refuse the vehicle as such. Dealer appetite to waive any additional costs probably varies and dependent on level of discount already applied. Hopefully this doesn't happen but from other marques/models the WLTP testing seems to be consistently coming in above existing NEDC figures.

 

20 minutes ago, Chas51 said:

The only thing I would add to the excellent advice provided by others above, is to be mindful of the £40K VED threshold when calculating total cost of ownership. It's very easy to spec a 280/272 Sportline over this figure which means you will be paying  £450pa for years 2-6.  It's also still unclear what the first year of VED is coming in at yet, due to the 272 not having gained WLTP approval, but my guess is that it will be in at least one bracket higher than the existing rate of £515, so factor that in when getting on the road quotes,.

 

 

Whoa so the £40k is based on list price not price paid? Whats the road tax difference if you get it below £40k vs over and how long do you have to pay that for?

2 minutes ago, Chas51 said:

WLTP form (that I assume you had to sign also?),

Nope, didn't get one of those  

Just a line on the order form :

Quote

12 Months First Year Rate TC48 CO2 (151 - 170) - £515.00

 

15 minutes ago, penguin17 said:

What is the current status of your order?  Could you not ask the dealer to see if it's possible to add the tow bar to your options list? 

 

The $64k question!  I've kind of given up chasing in recent weeks chasing tbh, my hunch is that it is built and stockpiled awaiting testing - i might just chase today for some entertainment. 

 

I wanted to avoid the VED 40K charge also - adding the towbar would take it over or I would have to compromise on other options.  

Yep, list price over £40K. Under £40K and you pay a premium for the first year dependant on the co2 thingies but then the standard rate of £140 p.a. for all following years irrespective of co2's etc. 

Just now, Sagalout said:

Yep, list price over £40K. Under £40K and you pay a premium for the first year dependant on the co2 thingies but then the standard rate of £140 p.a. for all following years irrespective of co2's etc. 

Just checked it out and I believe that in years 2-6 you pay £450 a year if list price over 40k, vs £140 if it's under. After year 6 it goes to £140. Gonna have to scrimp on some extras...or maybe go for the hatchback instead of the estate.

I spec'ed mine to 39.5k. Thankfully that got me all I needed. The increase in road fund licence over the 40k is daft, not paying all that extra!  RFL is based on list price not paid price, otherwise I guess you'd get a lot of cars that cost £39999 and had a set of accessory mats that cost £5k :).

 

Obviously I didn't pay list price for it, but that doesn't figure in RFL calcs.

Really confused now... Skoda guy I spoke to said Sportsline Plus 272 not available to order until April next year. But regular Sportsline available fom next few weeks. What the?

36 minutes ago, DjEatch said:

Nope, didn't get one of those  

Just a line on the order form :

 

 

Interesting, in which case you probably have a stronger argument to refuse any increase 

Going to need the hatchback version to get it under £40k it looks like. Still plenty of space...

in 6 - 12 months time, Skoda will reveal the face-lift mk3 Superb.

if the rumoured stars align - MY20 will b the "new" Superb, also featuring an electric motor.