The Skoda Superb will make a comeback in India as a full import, and it could even get a diesel engine.
I have a budget of Rs 50 lakh and want to buy either the Skoda Octavia, Superb or Kodiaq, but I have a few doubts:
1. Is the Octavia coming in diesel spec, and if so, at what price?
2. Will the Kodiaq, Octavia or Superb give a similar performance as my Skoda Laura?
3. Can I use it for my 25km commute within the city, with empty roads, without clogging the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?
4. If one of the above conditions is not being met, then can you suggest a good second-hand diesel sedan?
Jitendra, Mumbai
Autocar India says: You may need to bump up your Rs 50 lakh budget as the on-road prices of the Skoda imports could exceed it. But, all the same, let’s take your questions point-by-point:
1) Yes, the Superb is expected to return with a diesel engine in India. Skoda even showcased the Superb diesel at this year’s Auto Expo. However, being an import, it will attract higher customs duties and local taxes, and therefore, it is likely to cost you well above Rs 60 lakh on-road, depending on the specification.
2) Yes, all these new Skodas will perform better than your Skoda Laura, which came with the older TSI engine. The new models will come with the latest EA888 engines, which are more powerful, efficient and smooth.
3) A 25km drive can be sufficient for DPF regeneration, but it depends on the driving conditions. If most of your commute is smooth-flowing and allows you to maintain consistent speeds – like on Mumbai’s new coastal road – then it’s ideal for passive DPF regeneration. However, if you’re mostly stuck in stop-go traffic, the exhaust temperatures may not get high enough for effective regeneration. You will then need to perform a DPF regeneration cycle, which is specified in the owner’s manual.
4) If these cars are beyond your budget, you could consider a used Superb diesel or even a V213 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E220d, which should fit your budget.
Also See:
New Skoda Superb, Octavia RS showcased at Auto Expo 2025
New Skoda Superb walkaround video: Auto Expo 2025
