Skoda Fabia Review
Skoda's baby is all grown up
Highlights
Spacious interior
Stylish new design
Good to drive
Not the bargain it once was
Engine choice limited
Have to hit the option list for some basics like USB ports in the back
Overview
The Skoda Fabia has always been a solid and sensible choice of supermini, offering that bit more space than its competitors and (in recent years anyway) doing so without sacrificing too much in the way of style.
This all new fourth generation model has grown once again to the point where it can now easily compete with the class above.
Interior Gallery
Space & Practicality
Rating
The boot space has increased to an impressive 380 litres which is 50 litres more than the previous model and is now on par with the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus. It will swallow up a full size travel system without complaint and comes with the option of a handy false floor and rubber boot mat as part of the ‘simply clever’ pack.
The back seats are spacious both in terms of head and legroom, and you can definitely notice that extra few centimetres in the wheelbase. As with most small hatchbacks, it’s still a lot more comfortable for two than three back there but there is a third seatbelt, and a low transmission tunnel means the middle seat is usable in a pinch. Isofix anchors are easy to access – there are two sets on the outer seats which have just enough space to accommodate rear-facing childseats although you may have to compromise ever so slightly on legroom for front seat passengers to do so.
Equipment and Safety
Rating
The Fabia comes with a choice of three trim levels – Active, Ambition and Style. Starting at €19,150, the entry level Active comes with a decent amount of equipment including 15 inch steel wheels and a 6.5 inch ‘Swing’ infotainment system with Bluetooth phone connectivity. Safety features are also impressive with lane keep assist and automatic emergency braking as standard.
The mid-spec Ambition model brings a little more luxury to the table with 15 inch alloy wheels, cruise control, parking sensors and Apple CarPlay for a premium of €1,200.
At the top of the range is the Style model, which starting at a still reasonable €21,950 will add 16 inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, comfort sport seats and an upgraded eight inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Performance & Running Costs
Rating
The new Fabia is a strictly petrol-powered machine with a selection of frugal one-litre options to choose from. The entry level unit is the three cylinder MPI with a modest 65hp power output that increases to 80hp in the Style model.
It’s worth upgrading to the 95hp TSI for that bit of extra pep. That is what powered our test car and made for a very pleasant experience behind the wheel. The handling is typically Skoda - solid, reassuring and predictable. It’s quick enough for confident overtaking and a well-weighted steering and suspension set up keeps it nicely planted around corners.
Ours came paired with a five speed manual gearbox which to be fair doesn’t ever really leave you wanting except at the highest of motorway speeds, but there is a seven speed 110hp automatic version available for those after something a bit more gutsy.
Fuel economy was impressive staying mostly under 6.0l/100km over a week of mixed driving.
Reliability & Residuals
Rating
This is a small car that’s done a lot of growing up. It’s a very likeable package - easy to live with and a realistic option for small families, although it’s not quite the bargain it used to be once you choose the right engine and trim. Skoda’s reliability record is impressive and all new models including the Fabia come with a three year warranty as standard.
Facts & Figures
Car Tested: Skoda Fabia 1.0 TSI Style
Car Tested Price: €24,086
Starting Price
€19,150
Fuel Economy
5.1l/km
0 - 100kms
10.9s
Power
95hp
Emissions
117g
Tax
€190
Seats
5
Isofix
2
Bootspace
380l
NCAP safety rating
5
