THE VW-owned Skoda never ceases to amaze.

Their line-up of award winning cars is staggering, especially given the suspicion with which the marque is still regarded by many would-be buyers who remember all too well the problems encountered in the past and, of course, all the Skoda jokes.

Don't even think about that if you are considering a first-class luxury car at an affordable price, for that is just what the Skoda Superb is.

Sadly, in this one-up society we live in, the badge may well be against it, but that really should not be the case.

The Superb is exactly that, and not to beat about the bush, at an entry price of £14,200, excellent value to boot.

Courtesy of Simpsons, of High-worth, I tested the new Superb Comfort V6 2.5 TDI, and believe me, they don't come much better than this at £20,400.

Perhaps a little noiser than I would have expected, it is a mag-nificent performer and very economical.

Comfort levels are of the highest order and the amount of legroom puts many more luxurious cars to shame.

Indeed, when I went to sit in the back there was so much legroom I was convinced my wife had moved the front seat well forward.

Not so. There's room for tall people back and front. Most impressive.

Standard features on the car I tested include:

n Climate control with additional vents to the rear seats

n Remote central locking; front and rear electric windows

n Electrically-adjustable and heated door mirrors

n Front and side airbags for driver and front passenger

n Sound system with CD player.

There are six engines on offer for the Superb range, three petrol and three diesel.

The original Superb, pictured right, first introduced in 1934, was a luxurious, stylish car owned by wealthy entrepreneurs and royalty alike.

Like the first Superbs, their 21st Century successors offer a great combination of elegance, self-confidence and advanced technology.

Summary: The Skoda Superb lives up to its name in every way. It meets every possible desire of today's hard-pressed motorist. Very quick, extraordinarily comfortable, handles well, and and it's economical.

What a combination.

Contract: Simpsons of Highworth, 01793 762234.