Škoda has once again underlined its reputation for building cars that fit real lives, not just glossy brochures. At the 2026 What Car? Awards, the brand secured an impressive spread of category wins and Best Buy accolades, with judges repeatedly pointing to practicality, value for money and breadth of choice as defining strengths across the range.
The headline moment belonged to the Superb Estate, which reclaimed its Estate Car of the Year title after a two-year absence. For a model that dominated the category for eight consecutive years between 2016 and 2023, the return to the top felt less like a comeback and more like a restoration of natural order.
A rightful return for the Superb Estate
The latest Superb Estate comprehensively outscored its rivals, impressing judges with its vast interior space, everyday usability and wide selection of drivetrain options. In a segment where many estates are growing more style-led and less family-focused, the Superb continues to prioritise function without sacrificing comfort or refinement.
What Car? Editor Steve Huntingford highlighted the car’s rare ability to meet the needs of almost any family. He praised its immense passenger and luggage space, while noting that the Superb never feels unwieldy from behind the wheel. Its blend of tidy handling and a comfortable ride, particularly when equipped with optional adaptive suspension, reinforced the judges’ view that this is an estate designed to excel in the real world, not just on paper.
For buyers who need space without the bulk or compromises often associated with large SUVs, the Superb Estate’s return to the top sends a clear message. Practicality, when executed properly, still wins.
Kodiaq sets the benchmark for towing
Škoda’s success did not stop there. The Kodiaq was crowned What Car? Tow Car of the Year, a title earned through rigorous testing across seven weight categories. After winning the 1,700 to 1,999kg class, the Kodiaq went on to secure the overall award, emerging as the most complete towing package on test.
Judges were particularly impressed by its stability at the legal towing limit and its composure under pressure. Even when pushed hard on the test track, the Kodiaq remained calm and predictable, qualities that matter far more than headline power figures when towing heavy loads.
According to Huntingford, while every category winner demonstrated strong abilities, the Kodiaq stood apart by offering such a broad and balanced set of talents. Stability, confidence and versatility combined to make it the standout choice for drivers who regularly tow, whether for work or leisure.
Best Value awards reinforce Škoda’s positioning
Beyond outright category wins, Škoda also secured three What Car? Best Buy awards, a recognition that focuses squarely on real-world buying priorities. These awards are designed to highlight cars that offer the strongest overall package when price, usability and ownership considerations are weighed together.
The Scala was named Best Value Family Car, praised for delivering space, quality and everyday comfort at a price point that remains accessible. The Elroq took the Best Value Electric SUV title, underlining Škoda’s growing confidence in the EV space and its ability to make electric ownership more attainable. Completing the trio, the Kodiaq added the Best Value Seven Seat SUV award to its growing list of accolades, further cementing its reputation as a versatile family all-rounder.
A consistent philosophy, clearly recognised
Taken together, Škoda’s performance at the 2026 What Car? Awards reflects a consistent product philosophy. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, the brand continues to focus on delivering cars that make sense for families, commuters and long-distance drivers alike. Space is genuinely usable, value is measurable rather than marketing-led, and choice is broad enough to suit a wide range of needs.
With the Superb Estate back on its throne, the Kodiaq setting the standard for towing and multiple Best Value titles reinforcing everyday appeal, Škoda’s latest awards haul feels well earned. It is a reminder that in a rapidly changing market, thoughtful design and honest value still resonate most strongly with buyers and judges alike.
