Skoda Superb Covers 2,831 Km On A Single Tank And Sets A World Record

Skoda has set an attention grabbing world record that showcases what disciplined driving and efficient engineering can achieve. In a fourth generation Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI, professional rally driver Miko Marczyk covered a verified 2,831 km on a single tank of diesel. The headline figure is backed by an astonishing average consumption of 2.61 L per 100 km, far lower than the model’s official combined WLTP rating of 4.8 L per 100 km. The result adds fresh energy to the long running debate around diesel engines by demonstrating what is possible when low drag, smart gearing, and careful throttle use work together for many continuous hours.

This achievement used a standard Superb in Essence trim rather than a one off prototype. That point matters because it suggests the result is not only for laboratories. It shows what a showroom spec car can approach when everything aligns and the driver manages speed and momentum with precision.

Quick Summary

Item
Details
Record
2,831 km on a single tank of fuel
Average Consumption
2.61 L per 100 km during the run
Official WLTP Figure
4.8 L per 100 km for the same configuration
Driver
Miko Marczyk, Polish rally driver
Car Used
Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI, Essence trim, seven speed DSG
Engine Output
110 kW and 360 Nm
Wheels
16 inch
Fuel Used
Regular diesel for the attempt
Objective Ahead
Driver aims to cross 3,000 km on one tank in a future run
Official Site

The Record Run At A Glance

  • Distance achieved on one tank: 2,831 km
  • Average consumption during the run: 2.61 L per 100 km
  • Official combined WLTP rating for the car: 4.8 L per 100 km
  • Fuel type used: regular diesel
  • Driver: Miko Marczyk, known for extensive rally and endurance experience

Covering this distance required not only an efficient powertrain but also consistency. Long range driving exposes weaknesses in thermal management, rolling resistance, and driver fatigue. Maintaining focus and a steady plan is as important as the specifications under the bonnet.

The Car And Technical Specification

The record was set in a Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI with the Essence trim as supplied by Skoda Poland. The drivetrain produces 110 kW and 360 Nm, paired with a seven speed dual clutch DSG transmission. The car ran on 16 inch wheels, a practical size for low rolling resistance, strong straight line stability, and predictable ride on mixed surfaces.

Key takeaways about the Superb 2.0 TDI used for the run:

  • Common rail diesel with strong low end torque for easy cruising at low throttle openings
  • Seven speed DSG that keeps the engine in a high gear at modest revs
  • Aerodynamic bodywork that supports steady state highway efficiency
  • Large fuel tank that enables truly long legs between refuels

The official WLTP combined consumption of 4.8 L per 100 km already places the Superb 2.0 TDI among the more efficient large family cars. The record shows how much further consumption can be reduced when speed discipline and anticipation are added.

Strategy, Conditions, And Execution

A consumption figure of 2.61 L per 100 km is not achieved by chance. The driver followed a set of efficient driving principles and maximized the Superb’s strengths.

Important factors that contributed to the outcome:

  • Speed discipline to keep aerodynamic drag in check since drag rises sharply with speed
  • Anticipatory driving to avoid unnecessary braking and reacceleration
  • Use of Eco mode and steady throttle inputs to reduce transient losses
  • Tyre pressure kept at recommended levels to minimize rolling resistance
  • Well rested driver to maintain smoothness for hour after hour
  • Attention to wind conditions to plan stints with advantageous tailwinds where possible

The combination of these choices helps the engine operate in a high efficiency zone while the DSG holds taller gears. Less throttle, fewer downshifts, and flatter torque delivery build the foundation for ultra low consumption.

Why Diesel Still Excels At Long Distance Efficiency

Diesel engines remain highly efficient at part load where many highway runs take place. A few reasons explain the advantage:

  • Higher compression ratio that improves thermal efficiency
  • Lean burn operation that uses less fuel to sustain a given torque output
  • Rich low end torque that allows taller gearing and lower rpm at cruise
  • Lower specific fuel consumption near the operating points used for steady driving

Environmental policy is pushing emissions improvements across all fuel types, and diesels face scrutiny around particulate and NOx control. Modern aftertreatment with DPF and SCR systems has improved tailpipe cleanliness significantly. The record does not settle the policy debate but it does remind buyers that long highway trips continue to play to diesel’s strengths.

Practical Fuel Saving Tips From The Driver

Miko Marczyk highlighted five simple habits that any driver can adopt to improve economy:

  1. Maintain correct tyre pressure for reduced rolling resistance and consistent handling.
  2. Be well rested so you can maintain smooth, measured inputs and steady speed.
  3. Anticipate traffic flow and lift early to avoid braking that wastes momentum.
  4. Accelerate gradually and use Eco mode to temper throttle response where available.
  5. Leverage wind conditions where possible since a tailwind reduces drag and a headwind increases it.

These tips are easy to apply daily and can produce meaningful savings even without a record attempt on the agenda.

How The Numbers Add Up

At 2.61 L per 100 km, the Superb consumed roughly 73.8 L over 2,831 km. That aligns with the capacity of a large tank and suggests minimal idle time, controlled speeds, and long continuous stints. For comparison, driving at the official combined figure of 4.8 L per 100 km over the same distance would require roughly 136 L. The difference illustrates the scale of savings available when the driver, conditions, and vehicle are optimized.

What This Record Means For Buyers

  • Confidence in long range capability for family trips or business travel
  • Lower real world running costs when efficient driving techniques are used
  • Proof that a standard car can deliver extraordinary range without exotic modifications
  • Validation of modern diesel technology when paired with disciplined driving

The driver also hinted at using premium diesel and pushing for 3,000 km on one tank in a future attempt. That goal underlines how much untapped efficiency can remain once the basics are mastered.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What car was used for the record run

A standard fourth generation Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI in Essence trim with a seven speed DSG and 16 inch wheels.

2. How far did the car travel on one tank

The car covered 2,831 km on a single tank of diesel.

3. What was the average fuel consumption during the attempt

The average was 2.61 L per 100 km, much lower than the official combined WLTP rating of 4.8 L per 100 km.

4. Did the driver use any special fuel

The attempt used regular diesel. The driver suggested that premium fuel might be tried in the future.

5. What simple tips can help me improve my own fuel economy

Maintain correct tyre pressure, stay rested, anticipate traffic, accelerate gently, use Eco mode where available, and consider wind conditions for long drives.

Official Website: https://www.skoda-auto.com

For More Information Click HERE

Leave a Comment