Skoda Superb vs. Toyota Innova Hycross – Choosing a chauffeur-driven vehicle in the ₹30 lakh segment is more a question of priorities than anything else: classical refinement of European sedans or modern MPV practicality. The Skoda Superb, for instance, is the quintessence of traditional executive luxury, granting the owner a very pleasant ride quality, a powerful petrol engine, and a very spacious cabin. The Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX(O), on the other hand, is mainly concerned with the passenger’s comfort, the hybrid’s eco-friendliness, and the segment’s first-ever rear-seat features. This comparison is mainly about identifying which one offers the best long-distance executive comfort.
Second-Row Comfort
The rear-seat experience is the area most in which the vehicles differentiate themselves. The Innova Hycross has a powered Ottoman captain seat, adjustable leg rests, three-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and mood lighting, thus becoming very suitable for being chauffeured and for long travels. It can be arranged to seat seven with captain’s seats or eight with a bench, so it is definitely very versatile.
The Skoda Superb, with its limousine-like rear seating, provides not only high-quality leather but ambient lighting, dual- or three-zone climate control, and a very large and comfortable cabin as well. The bench seat can fit five adults; albeit it does not have the powered ottoman function, it gives the feel of a classic executive sedan with very good quality in terms of touch and lateral support.
Driving Experience
The Skoda Superb is equipped with a 2.0L TSI petrol engine that boasts 190 bhp and 320 Nm of torque, and it is coupled with a 7-speed DSG. The low center of gravity, controlled body roll, and stable high-speed cruising make the vehicle a driver’s choice. Noise insulation is superb, providing a peaceful cabin even at high speed.
The engine of the Toyota Innova Hycross is a strong hybrid petrol engine with a displacement of 2.0L and an electric motor together, which generate 184 bhp (combined) and 206 Nm torque. It has an e-CVT transmission that is perfect for quiet, fuel-efficient city driving. The car is very comfortable to ride in as it is soft and absorbent, thus, making it suitable for stop-go traffic but the handling is not as engaging as the Superb’s. The hybrid arrangement gives the ARAI approved mileage of about 23.24 kmpl thus, being very economical.
Safety, Features
The Innova Hycross is a pro in safety and technology. It has a certified 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane trace assist, as its mainstay. Moreover, there are some additional features available such as ventilated front seats, a power back door, JBL audio, and a 360° camera. The long-lasting quality of Toyota, low maintenance costs, and the wide service network make ownership free of worries.
The Skoda Superb enjoys the benefit of a prior 5-star Euro NCAP rating, a sizable boot of 625 litres, a Canton audio system, and more amenities like umbrellas mounted on doors. The cost of maintenance is higher, and the long-term reliability of DSG will need to be taken into consideration, but it still is a great option for those who appreciate traditional luxury sedans with superior build quality.
