First Drive: 2026 Skoda Superb in Prague

The all-new Škoda Superb has officially made its Middle East debut, marking the flagship of the Czech automaker’s renewed push into the region. To experience the new model firsthand, we travelled to Prague, the heart of Škoda’s operations, to test drive both the Superb sedan and the Superb Combi, the elegant station wagon variant that remains incredibly popular across Europe.

It’s impossible to visit the Czech Republic without noticing Škoda’s deep-rooted presence — every second car you see is probably a Škoda. For locals, the brand is more than just transportation; it’s part of their national identity. That’s hardly surprising given Škoda’s 130-year history as one of the world’s oldest car manufacturers.

Founded in 1895 by Václav Laurin and Václav Klement, the company began as a small bicycle workshop before evolving into a carmaker renowned for its solid, dependable engineering. The real transformation began in the early 1990s, when the Volkswagen Group took over, ushering in an era of modernisation and global growth. Since then, Škoda has thrived — expanding across Europe and India, and now focusing intently on the Middle East.

This renewed regional focus offers a unique advantage: Škoda can supply models built in both the Czech Republic and India, providing customers in the UAE and the wider GCC region with a diverse selection of vehicles tailored to different needs and budgets.

Our drive route in the Czech Republic took us along scenic mountain roads and charming countryside, creating the perfect setting to assess the new Superb’s capabilities. The latest generation builds upon its predecessor’s reputation for comfort and refinement, with a quieter cabin, improved suspension, and a more luxurious interior. The Superb glides effortlessly over uneven roads, and the seats — now even more supportive — make long journeys genuinely relaxing.

Under the hood, the all-new Škoda Superb for the Middle East will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 190 hp and 320 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. The combination of strong mid-range torque and refined power delivery makes it a comfortable cruiser on long highway drives.

The interior has also seen a notable leap forward. Škoda’s minimalist design approach combines soft-touch materials, clever storage solutions, and intuitive digital controls, creating an environment that feels both premium and user-friendly. Whether in sedan or Combi form, the Superb continues to excel at what it has always done best — delivering near-luxury comfort at an attainable price.

As part of the event, we also had the opportunity to drive a few of Škoda’s upcoming electric models, including the Škoda Elroq, a compact SUV that will make its Middle East debut sometime next year. The Elroq offers a smooth, silent driving experience and highlights the brand’s growing expertise in electric mobility — a clear sign that Škoda’s future will be just as progressive as its rich heritage.

And speaking of heritage, to mark Škoda’s 130th anniversary, we were treated to something truly special — the chance to drive some of the brand’s classic icons. We got behind the wheel of the Škoda 120, Škoda Rapid, and Škoda Favorit, models that served as milestones in the brand’s evolution. Each drive was a nostalgic look back at how far Škoda has come in design, engineering, and sophistication.

From its humble beginnings to becoming one of Volkswagen Group’s most respected brands, Škoda’s story is one of steady progress and unwavering identity. The new Superb embodies all of that — elegant, refined, and built with the kind of attention to detail that defines European automotive craftsmanship.

If our time in Prague is any indication, Škoda’s next chapter in the Middle East looks set to be its most exciting yet.

Pricing & Availability of the Škoda Superb

The Škoda Superb is available across showrooms in the GCC. In the UAE, prices for the Superb Sedan Selection trim start from AED 147,000 and for the top L&K trim, the price is AED 162,000.

Photos supplied by Skoda