Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 6 August 2026
The New Zealand Police have shown off the new Škoda Superb patrol car that will soon hit Kiwi tarmac.
Dubbed ‘Prime One’, it is based on the latest generation Superb wagon, which first became available to Kiwi buyers last year.
This unveiling comes just a week or so after an official announcement was made by the Police, confirming their commitment to the Škoda partnership.
Like the previous version, this new Superb is still powered by Volkswagen’s EA888 engine, which is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four cylinder.
This produces 195kW/250Nm, which is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.
This allows it to hit 100km/h from a standing start in 5.7-seconds, and while high-speed pursuits are a rarity these days, it tops out at 250km/h.
The Police Superbs aren’t simply standard dealership vehicles with lights and graphics added. Škoda New Zealand says it works with the factory in Europe to incorporate the custom specifications required for local policing.
These changes include operational refinements, equipment integration and durability upgrades intended to help the cars withstand demanding use.
Škoda hasn’t detailed every modification, but police vehicles typically require extensive electrical systems, communications equipment, additional lighting and cabin changes.
Ongoing servicing will continue to be handled through Škoda’s nationwide dealer and service network. The brand’s local parts and distribution centre also supplies components for the Police fleet.
Škoda says the facility currently achieves a 98 per cent first-pick rate, meaning most requested parts can be supplied from existing stock without waiting for a back order.
New Zealand’s Police fleet forms part of Škoda’s wider involvement with emergency services. The manufacturer says it has supplied more than 23,000 vehicles to police and emergency organisations around the world.
