Unveiled at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, the new Superb has replaced the first generation model launched in 2001. A station wagon version is expected to debut within next year.

Below we report some information on the design development and a set of images from the design process led by former Design Director Jens Manske.

The material was provided by Skoda Design Center to Czech Magazine AutoDesign&Styling, which authorized us for this republication.

Additional images and information can be found in the original article (Czech language only).

Design

Targeted to conservative customers, the Skoda Superb is a sedan with an executive look defined by horizontal lines, with ample room for both passengers and luggage.

Since the first exploratory sketches, it emerges that the design direction for the 2nd generation Superb was oriented towards a less classic 3-box shape, with a hatchback-like rear end.

This solution provides additional interior space, as well as a more sporty and modern look.

Nevertheless, Skoda's main target for its flagship model was a conservative customer who prefers a classic executive sedan design, so designers opted for the "twin-door" solution, which integrates the benefit of the hatcback design with a classic trunk lid panel.

Thanks to the Twin Door patented system passengers can decide to open the lid panel only or both the lid and the rear glass window - which allows for an easier access to the luggage space.

The luggage compartment has a capacity of 565 litres - 85 litres more than the previous model.

The volume can be increased up to 1,670 litres by tilting the backrest of the rear seats.

The front end is characterized by design elements introduced with the Roomster, but the headlights have a different contour defined by a straight horizontal upper edge which visually matches the character line of the side and contributes to a more aggressive look, which reminds of the Joyster concept unveiled in 2006.

An additional design element is represented by the traditional vertical bars formed by wide lamellas, which point from the center to the rim of the vehicle and direct air flow to the radiator.

Directly below the front grille, at the lower part of the bumper, is an inlet for air intake, which may be lined with a chrome strip.

According to Skoda, "This softens the sharp image of the vehicle and the Superb greets you with a double smile."

The headlights makes use of Bi-Xenon lamps and are equipped with the AFS (Adaptive Frontlight System),

In the side view, the length of the car (4,838 mm) is underlined by the horizontal line that starts from the front headlights and ends in correspondance of the rear lamps.

Chrome strips are positioned around the side windows, on the side doors and on the luggage compartment cover.

At the rear, the combined lights wrap around the sides, giving the vehicle a wider appearance and also make it more visible from the side. The traditional letter C, which becomes pronounced when the lights are turned on, lends a distinct Škoda look. A sporty touch is offered by the stainless steel double exhaust tailpipe.

Virtual tape drawing	The design team behind the Skoda Superb

(Source: Skoda, AutoDesign&Styling)