500-bhp Skoda Superb Sleeper is an RS4 killer in disguise

Skoda’s unassuming Superb is the last car you’d expect to pack sports car-baiting performance. But, with a four second 0-60 mph sprint, this practical family estate can put Porsches to shame. Join Jonny behind the wheel.

Some enjoy the theatre and fanfare of sports cars. Others just like the performance. If flying under the radar at breakneck speed is more your cup of tea, Jonny’s got just the machine for you: RE Performance’s Skoda Super Sleeper Edition.

Commissioned by Skoda as a celebratory goodbye to its third-gen Superb, this one-off special looks all but identical to the production version. Lift the bonnet, though, and you’ll find an enormous Garrett turbocharger boosting power from the standard 270 bhp, to just shy of 500 bhp. As Jonny discovers, that’s had some pretty profound effects on the acceleration. 

But how does it put all that power down to the ground? For one, the Superb’s standard all-wheel drive has been retained — kicking the rear axle into play when it detects slip. However, that’s only part of the picture: ultra sticky Yokohama A052 tyres and 50mm lowered KW suspension ensure that none of those ponies go to waste. Plus, the handling gets noticeably sharper as an added bonus.

And the brakes? Ah yes, you’ll probably be wanting some of those in a car with such mighty grunt. Thankfully, the upgraded 6-piston AP Racing items with 390mm front discs, can wipe speed off just as quickly as that EA888 engine can put it on. 

Otherwise, it’s just a regular Superb estate; practical, comfortable, and reliable. At 660 litres (or 1,950 if you drop the rear seats flat) its boot is leagues larger than any sports car with similar performance. In fact, if you want to go this quickly and take the dog along too, there’s little that can live with the souped-up Superb short of a full-fat Audi RS4 Avant.

So what’s the catch? You’ll need to watch Jonny’s full review to find out.