Auto Express has awarded the Skoda Superb the title of best estate car in the UK for 2026, beating rivals from Volvo, BMW, and Mercedes. The Czech vehicle impressed reviewers with its cabin, which they argued surpasses that of its sibling, the Volkswagen Passat, as well as its engine selection and 2.2-tonne towing capacity.
Key Features Praised by Reviewers
The publication highlighted the Superb's enormous 690-litre boot and clever interior touches, including Smart Dials. Reviewers recommended the 1.5-litre SE Technology variant as the best value, noting it is powerful enough for most needs and features mild-hybrid technology to boost efficiency. This trim stays below the £40,000 luxury car tax threshold.
According to Auto Express: "While the Superb Estate faced competition from the all-new Audi A5 Avant this year, the Skoda's vast, well appointed interior made sure that our Estate car of the Year trophy was going to go home in the Superb Estate's generous 690-litre load area. We'd go for the entry-level 1.5-litre petrol in SE Technology trim because it's powerful enough for most needs, and has mild-hybrid tech to boost its efficiency."
Runner-Up and Other Contenders
The Audi A5 Avant secured second place, praised as a "premium alternative" to BMW's 3 Series Touring with a broader engine range. Toyota's Corolla Touring Sports was also noted as a highly capable contender.
Financial Context: Downsizing to One Car
The award comes as a survey of 2,000 adults revealed that households dropping from two cars to one saved approximately £1,500 annually. 57% of respondents said they were financially better off after making the switch.
Paul Gilshan, CEO of Tempcover, commented: "Our research shows that for households that have downsized, one car works well. People are better off financially, it fits how they're working and living now, and they're more intentional about when they use it - and it's better for the environment. In many ways, these households are already practising a form of car sharing - coordinating access, prioritising who needs it most, making it work around everyone's schedule. The car is more of a shared resource rather than a personal fixture, and that mindset is only going to grow."
