1995 really doesn't seem that long ago, does it? The world really hasn't changed a whole lot since then. Unless, that is, you work for Skoda. Back in '95 their idea of a flagship vehicle was 67bhp worth of 1.3-litre Felicia which is to the Superb what David's sling is to a laser-guided bunker buster. The future's come crashing into Skoda in a big way.

We mean big as well. Despite being powered by a modest four-cylinder engine, the Superb 1.8T has 150bhp to play with, more than enough to propel the hulking fuselage at autobahn speeds. With 100mm more in the wheelbase than the fifth generation Volkswagen Passat on which it is based, Skoda are quite literally offering more car for your money. The 1.8T models we look at here open at £15,210 for the Classic with the plush 1.8T Comfort variant available at £16,610.

This turbocharged powerplant is, after the entry-level 2.0-litre, the second engine in a five-strong line up and is amongst the most popular. If you're after typical Skoda value, it doesn't make sense to spend a fortune but the 1.8T is a markedly superior offering to the 2.0-litre version and worth the premium. It's an unusual engine, refined at speed but with a curiously uncouth diesel-like clatter on startup, endowed with generous levels of torque but throughout a relatively narrow band.

"If you're after typical Skoda value, it doesn't make sense to spend a fortune."

Nevertheless, the Superb 1.8T has enough about it to create a convincing first impression. Only automotive Philistines will laugh at the badge, and the recently revised front grille imparts a certain degree of gravitas. It's almost as if Skoda is being gratuitously unapologetic. The Skoda badge is mounted loud and proud in the middle of acres of chrome, looming large in the rear view mirrors of dozily grazing Peugeot 607s and Volvo V70s. Being able to rattle off the sprint to 60mph in a mere 9.5 seconds gives you an indication as to the big Czech's verve, whilst a top speed of 134mph means that normal motorway cruising is reassuringly unstressed. The easiest way to identify the latest cars is by the indicators embedded in the wing mirrors.

The emphasis is very much on comfort, the Superb not being averse to a bit of pitch and roll should you get a little medieval with the pedals and steering wheel. Drive smoothly, surf the turbochargers bow wave of torque and the Skoda is far happier. As with the Passat, you shouldn't expect a particularly involving driving experience. Still, most buyers will find the ride to be truly excellent thanks to Skoda's careful tweaking of the four-link strut and torsion beam suspension. It's certainly difficult to imagine anyone getting out of shape in one, particularly as ESP Electronic Stability Control is standard. Refinement is good, although those migrating from a mkV Passat will note a little more engine noise and road vibration than they were used to. If this is the worst example of cost cutting in the Superb's make-up then Skoda have achieved a truly superb result.

Move inside and the first thing that strikes you is the wood trim. I remember laughing the first time I saw wood in a Skoda (an after-market package fitted to a Felicia many moons ago) but there's nothing remotely funny about this. Adorning the dashboard and the doors, the dark timber is tasteful and Germanic. There's a redesigned dashboard configuration on all trim levels too and the instruments clusters are backlit with very gentle white light.

As you might expect, most of that extra wheelbase length has been donated towards the cause of extra legroom - and it makes lots of difference. Sadly, the boot capacity is no different to an ordinary mkV Passat's (462 litres) but you can at least extend it by using the easily-to-operate split-folding rear seats. It's even possible to fold the front passenger's seat flat for particularly long items. If you want to go further, you'll be wanting an estate - but there are no plans for one: yet.

For the drivers it's all very plush, thanks to a multi-function leather-coated steering wheel that adjusts for both rake and reach. Both trim levels offer electric windows, air conditioning and a trip computer. Plus of course you can order leather seats and satellite navigation should you want it, although the relatively unexceptional 202g/km CO2 showing may dissuade corporate buyers from reaching any further into their pockets.

Whichever way you choose to view it, the Skoda Superb 1.8T is one of the key contenders for your money if you want a combination of quality, size and affordability. It's not the greatest driver's car to ever turn a wheel but it scores well on the qualities that many buyers in this sector value. Chairman of the Board looks for photocopier service representative money? That's about the size of it.