Miko Marczyk managed to cover more kilometers with a single tank of fuel in a Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI than any other car. With 150 hp, a DSG dual-clutch transmission with seven speeds, and front-wheel drive, he completed no less than 2831 km without stops for refueling.
During this exercise, the European Rally Champion traveled from his home country, Poland, to Disneyland Paris in France, and returned home, finishing the journey with an incredible average consumption of 2.61 l/100 km, a figure well below the homologated value by Skoda for this version of the Superb (4.8 l/100 km in the combined WLTP cycle). For the test, the driver used a unit with the entry-level equipment (Essence), 16’’ wheels, and low-rolling-resistance tires.
Miko Marczyk, a self-proclaimed fan of the hypermiling movement, assures that it is easy to achieve average consumption figures below those homologated by manufacturers by following a handful of rules. After this adventure, the Pole shared some tips, namely ensuring correct tire pressures and being well-rested, as drivers without fatigue are much more attentive to traffic, which helps avoid unnecessary braking.
According to the Polish expert, whenever the system is available, the most efficient driving mode (Eco, in the case of the Skoda) should be used, and acceleration should always be progressive and smooth, while keeping the engine at moderate RPMs. Marczyk also recommends taking advantage of favorable wind conditions and having a deep understanding of the vehicle being driven.
Finally, due to the importance of aerodynamics in consumption, the record-breaking Superb was equipped with the suspension springs from the Sportline version, to reduce the ground clearance by 15 mm. And the pace of the journey was, of course, moderate: an average speed of 80 km/h on the highway, with the driver always in communication with the support vehicle ahead, to inform him of unforeseen events and obstacles along the way.
