MANY motorists who moved away from larger family cars to multi-purpose vehicles are being drawn back into the sector by an influx of excellent new models.

The latest of these is Skoda’s new Superb, a classy and purposeful-looking model which has just gone on sale.

With its rather exceptional space, innovative features and competitive pricing it should be a worry to other manufacturers competing in this fiercely-contested sector.

Skoda’s clever touches include the world’s first tailgate that you can open as a boot lid on its own or as a complete tailgate to enable you to make the vehicle into a hatch.

The feature is fitted as standard on all models and as the UK’s mainstream market is dominated by hatchbacks rather than saloons, the new Superb should prove attractive to practical family motorists.

The Skoda looks good, too, with a slippery, flowing profile and a bold looking front end.

Although the name Skoda seems to be synonymous with smaller vehicles, like the Fabia and Octavia, the makers have a history of producing bigger cars that were once favoured by royalty.

The Superb, launched as a saloon in 2001, has proved a success with some 126,000 units sold and, with the new range being far-better equipped, a sales boost is anticipated.

The range consists of three specification levels – S, SE and Elegance – with six engine choices.

Under the bonnet, the Superb gets the VW group’s latest diesels which are quieter and smoother than before. The trio of diesels consist of a 105bhp 1.9-litre, 140bhp 2.0-litre with manual or six-speed DSG automatic; and a 170bhp 2.0-litre also with manual or six-speed DSG automatic.

There are three petrol motors: 125bhp 1.4-litre; 160bhp 1.8-litre with manual or seven-speed DSG automatic; and a 260bhp 3.6-litre V6 with 4x4 DSG only.

The diesels will be the most popular but among the petrol offerings, the 1.8-litre is a particularly smooth and powerful operator and well suited to the Superb. With petrol prices lower than diesel at present this model could be a wise choice, depending, of course, on mileage and price differentials.

Like some of the top cars in this sector, the Superb does handle and perform really well. Inside, the two-tone trim and plentiful chrome give a feeling of ambience. There is a touch screen which has helped to remove buttons on the dash while Bluetooth technology is available. Seven airbags are standard.

The ride is fairly firm but comfortable and the suspension, with an expensive multi-link system at the rear, copes admirably with most surfaces.

The electronic power steering is nicely communicative and probably the best you’ll encounter in this class.

The availability of four wheel drive for the first time will also broaden the Superb’s appeal and so too will a Green Line economy diesel version due later this year and an estate, expected in 2010.

Prices go from £15,490 for the 1.4-litre to £26,675 for the V6 4x4 DSG.

The Superb features a lighting system that varies the beam pattern according to your speed and the type of road. It has a setting to reduce reflections in rain or snow and the beams can be set sideways when driving abroad.

But one of the biggest plusses is the Superb’s spaciousness. Moving the engine to a transverse layout has freed up extra room for passengers while luggage capacity is up by almost a quarter.

With the rear seats down, the load area is simply cavernous and best in class.

Another feature is the optional park assist which allows the driver to parallel park. It works well with sensors guiding the car, and the driver ending the manoeuvre with small adjustments.

Skoda continues to go from strength to strength. It enjoyed record sales last year and is doing well during the present difficult climate.

A facelifted Octavia will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and next year the new Yeti and a new Fabia rally car will arrive.

At-a-glancE.

Skoda Superb 1.8 TSi S-spec petrol.

Price: £16,565.

Top speed: 136mph.

0-62mph: 8.6 seconds.

Fuel: 37.2mpg (combined figure).

C02 emissions (g/km): 180.

Verdict: Very spacious, innovative, quality build, well equipped and great value.