The least flashy model of the Skoda lineup, the Fabia is the brand’s workhorse. Responsible for more than 50% of its total sales, this is a car that’s vitally important to Skoda’s future.
Replacing a successful model is never an easy task. Designer Jens Manske has sensibly played things safe with a careful modernization program that preserves the basic formula unchanged. That means we can expect a practical, value-for-money car, with a decent quality finish, unthreatening design, and ample range of features.
New Fabia delivers all that, wrapped in a thoroughly refreshed exterior shape. There are many more curves in the new design, with the larger, multi-faceted headlights and contoured sides giving a friendly, unthreatening look. The wraparound windshield and black A-pillars give it a floating-roof look and it also gets Skoda’s bolder new grille and badge treatment.
Inside, there’s an increase in headroom and legroom, especially for rear passengers, and the trunk is 25% larger than before. The new interior benefits from upgraded materials, and thoughtful features like the flexible retaining strip for items stowed in the door recesses.
Fabia will be on sale throughout Europe from April (earlier in some markets) with prices starting at under €10,000 (approx. $13,100). There will be a range for four gasoline and three diesel engines (not all are available in some markets) with an automatic option on some engines. It will come only in a five-door hatchback body style.
Despite its continued presence in rallying, Fabia isn’t going to set many pulses racing. But with this new design, Skoda has made a safe choice that’s unlikely to disappoint; buyers are likely to feel the same way.
July 20th, 2008 at 11:51 am
Hope the New vRS looks like this!