2017 Skoda Fabia range review
What is it?
A Volkswagen Polo in a Czech disguise. The Skoda Fabia is based on the same underpinnings as the just-superseded Polo, which means it also shares some DNA with the Audi A1.
But if you put all that aside the Fabia is a very nice city car with polished road manners and well presented cabin.
How many models can I choose from?
Skoda Australia has kept its range relatively simple, but added an interesting twist. There are only two engine options - the same 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with either 70kW/160Nm or 81kW/175kW. The 70kW car gets a five-speed manual gearbox while the 81TSI is exclusively paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
But, here’s where it gets interesting, Skoda offers two body styles - a conventional five-door hatch as well as a compact wagon. That makes Skoda a unique offering in the city car segment, adding to the appeal for those who want small car space in a more compact package.
Skoda also offers a Monte Carlo trim line for both the hatch and wagon. While it sounds like a sporty upgrade in reality it is a style package that brings 'Monte Carlo' badges, roof spoiler, 17-inch black alloy wheels, black rear diffuser, black wing mirrors, black grille, black front spoiler, black side skirts, halogen headlights with LED DRLs, front fog lights, cruise control and sports suspension. But the engine remains the same 81kW unit, so this isn’t a Polo GTI rival.
What do they cost?
Hatch
70TSI - $16,490
81TSI - $19,490
Monte Carlo - $23,490
Wagon
70TSI - $17,640
81TSI - $20,640
Monte Carlo - $24,640
Any options that I need to know about?
Skoda prefers to offer option packages, rather than a long list of individual items. For the 70TSI and 81TSI you have the choice of the Sports Pack and Premium Sports Pack.
The first, which costs $1800, adds 17-inch alloys, front LED daytime running lights, sports suspension, rear parking sensors, a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel and privacy glass.
The latter package includes all the previously listed items plus adaptive cruise control (rare at this end of the market), keyless entry and ignition, climate control air-conditioning, auto lights and wipers, front fog lights, fatigue detection and DAB+ digital radio. It adds $3600 to the price.
For the Monte Carlo you can add the Tech Pack for $1800 that brings adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and ignition, rear parking sensors, climate control air-con, auto lights and wipers, fatigue detection, DAB+ digital radio and auto-dimming rear mirrors.
Is it expensive to own?
Skoda offers customers the choice of either paying for servicing as they go or pre-purchasing a package for either three- or five-years, which can be bundled with the new car financing.
The three year pre-purchased servicing costs $1150 while five-years sets you back $2250. However, if you pay-as-you-go under the capped price servicing scheme you’ll pay $1065 for three-years and $2108 for five-years.
Which is the most economical model?
Despite the different power outputs, the more efficient seven-speed transmission means both engine is just as economical as each other. Both the 70TSI and 81TSI used a claimed 4.1-litres per 100km on the combined city/highway cycle.
Which is the safest model?
Both the 70TSI and 81TSI share the same safety equipment with six airbags and autonomous emergency braking as standard.
Which the best model to drive?
The extra performance of the 81kW engine makes it the pick of the two. The five-speed manual is a nice transmission, and the dual-clutch auto can be a little jerky at low speeds, but with an extra 11kW/15Nm it just feels nicer to drive.
Being based on the Polo underpinnings its on-road manners are amongst the best in the city car segment. It feels responsive and direct on the road with direct steering that is nicely weighted.
The sports suspension makes the already firm ride even firmer so the little Fabia can feel a bit busy on uneven surfaces.
Should I buy one now?
At the time of publication Skoda is offering drive-away deals for the Fabia range. The 70TSI hatch is priced at $16,990, the wagon at $18,490 and the Monte Carlo hatch for $25,490.
Where's the sweet spot?
The 81TSI, currently offered at $19,990 drive-away, is the pick of the litter. It offers plenty in terms of both creature comforts and safety, as well as offering sophisticated city car dynamics. It may not be the cheapest city car, but it is one of the best.