Superb value with Skoda Superb Elegance

 The trouble with that is while luxury is often a desirable thing, we're only too aware of the need to pay for it, and only the privileged few have the means to do so. But one of the most positive things to come out of harder times is that buyers are more willing to look beyond the badge and see what can be got for the money: music to the ears of Skoda and Co.

Their Superb model, now into its second year, made a lot of the competition look very silly indeed. By offering a stretched wheelbase it provides truly epic rear seat space, and in doing so it also helps to create the soothing ride that is synonymous with comfort and luxury.

However, you need a range-topper to complete the package, which is where the 3.6-litre V6 comes in. Available in top-spec Elegance trim only, it combines petrol punch and the reassurance of the four-wheel drive system to provide more of a driving experience than any other version in the range.

There's not a great deal on the outside to hint at the potential though. It's as handsome and distinctive as the rest of the Superb range, although the standard fit 18in alloy wheels are attractive and classy.

Considering its pricing — £27,305 (Dh160,000) in the UK — doesn't qualify for premium status, the exterior is sharp enough to cut the mustard. As if to prove the point, passers-by who don't clock the badge will frequently mistake it for something more expensive.

It moves like a car from the upper echelons too. Plus there's the kit list to take into account. As standard you get bi-Xenon headlights, tyre pressure monitoring, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth phone connection, electric driver's seat and sat-nav with colour screen, SD card slot and an auxiliary connection. The options list is also pretty small, which says a lot about how well specified it is in the first place.

The Superb in this guise offers something different to the usual Skoda talents, but it doesn't abandon the appeal that serves its other models so well: comfort, usability, practicality and an all-round sense of driving and ownership satisfaction. Avoid the temptation to buy simply the badge and get yourself a very accomplished car, at a bargain price.

SPECS & RATING

Model Superb Elegance
Engine 3.6-litre V6
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Max power 260bhp @ 6,000rpm
Max torque 350Nm @ 2,500rpm
Top speed 250kph
0-100kph 6.5sec

Price TBC

Plus Space, ride quality and value for money

Minus Won't be here until end of 2010