Skoda Superb Estate review

Obviously the hook here is the boot. And measuring 690 litres with the rear seats still upright, up 30 litres on its predecessor, it makes a mockery of all but the VW Passat Estate (with which it shares the same underpinnings) in its class. It’s huge.

That’s in the mild hybrid and petrols/diesels, mind. The PHEV loses a fair amount on account of the battery under the boot floor, returning 510 litres seats up and 1,770 litres seats down. But that’s still more than most everyday SUVs.

It’s just as comfortable for passengers too, with acres of head and (in particular) legroom in both the front and rear. Family holidays would simply be a breeze in this thing – why anyone would choose a crossover over this is anyone’s guess.

And it feels the part too, with its high quality (sustainable) materials and general overall finish. Sure, it’s not as flashy as some rivals, but it gives an upmarket impression without being too tryhard, and it’s ergonomically very pleasing too.

Is anything else significant other than the boot?

Yes, actually. As is the way these days, the screens are now bigger than ever, with all trim levels getting a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch free standing touchscreen (and there’s an optional head-up display too). Generous indeed.

But as we’ve seen elsewhere, more screenage isn’t always a good thing, all too often resulting in any and every button absorbed into the touchscreen. Gah.

Here though, Skoda has introduced so-called Smart Dials. These three dials - sitting below the main touchscreen - each integrate a 32mm digital display. The two outer dials control the temperature, seat heating and seat ventilation, while the central dial is customisable and controls up to four functions from infotainment volume, fan speed, air direction, smart air conditioning, driving modes or map zoom (you don’t need the latter if you’re using Google Maps).

A short press allows you to switch between each function, and then you twist in either direction to adjust the setting. We’re huge fans for their innovation and ease of functionality: other manufacturers should take note. They’re reason enough to buy this over the Passat.

Does it get all Skoda’s usual fancy toys? 

You mean the Simply Clever bits, presumably, and the short answer is yes. The long answer is there are as many as 28, ranging from familiar favourites such as the parking ticket clip on the A-pillar, ice scraper on the fuel filler cap and umbrella in the driver’s door, to new ideas making their debut.

These include the electrically operated load cover, useful for those with short arms, smartphone pockets on the front seat backrests and a new sliding rear centre armrest with two integrated cup holders and a tablet holder. Handy.