First Drive: 2026 Skoda Superb Selection Wagon “Combi”

In a market dominated by SUVs, the new Skoda Superb Combi quietly reminds you why large wagons still make a lot of sense. Sold as the “Selection Wagon” in the GCC market, the Superb Combi blends executive-car comfort with practicality that even many SUVs struggle to match. It is spacious, refined, efficient and surprisingly enjoyable to drive, all while standing out from the crowd with its understated European styling.

Exterior Design

The latest Superb Combi keeps the clean and classy design language Skoda is known for, but adds enough modern touches to make it look premium without trying too hard. Our GCC-spec Selection Wagon came with dark chrome exterior styling, which gives the car a more sophisticated appearance compared to traditional chrome finishes.

The wagon proportions work very well here. It looks long, sleek and purposeful, especially from the side profile. The 17-inch alloy wheels may seem modest by today’s standards, but they suit the character of the car well and help improve ride comfort.

Unlike bulky SUVs, the Superb Combi feels elegant and aerodynamic, while still offering immense practicality.

Interior and Technology

Step inside and the Superb immediately impresses with its clean dashboard layout and premium feel.

The Selection trim gets a 3-zone A/C and heated front seats, 10-inch digital instrument panel and 10-inch Infotainment, leather multifunction steering wheel, four USB-C ports, wireless charging, and cruise control. The higher models get the larger 13-inch infotainment system.

There is a choice of four interior design selections. Our tester had the grey fabric upholstery, together with grey fabric pad and black polished trim which were supportive and comfortable. Buyers opting for higher trims can get leather seats along with ventilation and massage functions, adding an extra layer of luxury.

One of the more interesting features is Skoda’s new Smart Dials system. These multifunction rotary controls combine physical knobs with digital displays, allowing you to control functions such as climate settings, seat functions and audio adjustments. It is clever technology, although there is a bit of a learning curve initially as you get used to how the system works.

Thankfully, Skoda still understands the importance of comfort in this region. The air-conditioning system is excellent, delivering very strong cooling performance even during peak summer temperatures in this region.

Our tester came with fabric seats, which were supportive and comfortable during longer drives. 

Rear Passenger Space and Cargo Capacity

This is where the Skoda Superb Combi really shines.

Rear passenger space is genuinely impressive, with limousine-like legroom that makes it one of the most spacious vehicles in its class. Adults sitting in the back have loads of room to stretch out, making it an excellent long-distance cruiser for families or business users alike.

Then there is the cargo area, which is one of the biggest highlights of the Superb Selection Wagon. The Combi offers a massive 690-litre luggage capacity, giving it SUV-like practicality while maintaining the lower driving position and efficiency benefits of a wagon.

But it is not just about outright space. Skoda has cleverly designed the boot area to make it genuinely useful in everyday life. Hooks, cargo nets, cargo elements and a double-floor setup help keep everything organised, whether you are carrying shopping bags, luggage, camera equipment or family gear.

There is also a movable multifunctional storage net positioned under the roller cover, perfect for storing lighter items such as handbags, jackets or smaller valuables separately from heavier cargo below.

Another smart touch is the electric roller cover, which automatically retracts when the tailgate is opened and closes again when the tailgate shuts. It can also be manually operated when carrying larger items.

Fold the rear seats down and the practicality becomes even more impressive, turning the Superb Selection Wagon into one of the most versatile family cars currently available in the GCC market.

Engine and Performance

Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 190 hp and 320 Nm of torque, paired to a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

On paper, the numbers may not sound extreme, but on the road the Superb feels quick. Throttle response is immediate, and the turbocharged engine delivers strong mid-range pull with instant acceleration when needed.

The DSG gearbox shifts quickly and smoothly most of the time, helping the car feel refined during everyday driving while also responding well when pushing harder. Skoda claims it can go from 0-100 kph in 7.8 seconds.

One of the biggest highlights is fuel economy. Despite offering strong performance and generous interior space, the Superb Combi delivers very impressive fuel efficiency, making it an excellent option for buyers covering long highway distances across the region. Official numbers say the Superb Wagon gives 14.4 km/l. We were averaging closer to 12 km/l with mostly city driving.

The ride quality is another strong point. It remains comfortable and composed over rough roads while still maintaining good stability at highway speeds.