Already four generations for the "little" Fabia.

Initially, in 1999, she was, small.

But, in recent years, all cars have grown in size and weight, and the Fabia is no exception.

In terms of dimensions, this represents + 11 cm in length compared to the predecessor (4.11 m), almost 5 cm more in width and a wheelbase that takes up 9 cm, all benefits for the passengers.

With this build, it stands out as the most massive in its category.

Even the VW Polo (407cm) and the Seat Ibiza (406) which share its platform must lower the flag!

The same goes for the trunk: with 380 liters it is one of the largest in the category.

Great ideas

In terms of style, the Fabia remains classic, with a design that favors a careful aerodynamic coefficient to control consumption. Inside, too, it's traditional. The presentation is sober and the models tested, rather upscale, are particularly well equipped. The central screen (6 to 9 inches depending on the version) is well integrated, responding to the dials located behind the steering wheel. For the basic versions, they are dials / hands, while the most luxurious are entitled to a "virtual cockpit" (10.25 "). For the assembly of materials, no complaints but you will not find any trace of foamed plastics, everything is hard and sounds hollow.

On the other hand, we must salute the usual ingenuity of Skoda "creators".

As with the rest of the family, the Fabia is full of practical tips, often in series, sometimes optional.

We have noted the trunk mat that unfolds outward to show a safety triangle, the Smartphone pocket on the back of the front seats, or the now classic umbrella hidden in the edge of the door.

Practical and well thought out!

DSG only for the top of the range

In terms of engines, do not look for diesel, there will be no more. No hybridization either, Skoda therefore relies on proven petrol units. The offer starts with a modest 1.0 without turbo of 65 ch, followed by its variation 80 ch then by TSi of 95 and 110 ch, all 3 cylinders. A more powerful version, 4 cylinders 1.5 (150 hp) should follow in the coming weeks.

We started our test with the 80 hp. It is sufficient in town but if you want more response, it would be better to go through the TSi of 95 or 110 hp. Regarding the transmission, only the 110 hp version will be able to benefit, as an option, from the excellent 7-speed DSG gearbox (6 manual as standard). The others are content with the 5-speed gearbox, and the 150 hp 1.5 is automatically assigned to the DSG7. On the road, the Fabia will do it for you in "efficiency" mode. No fuss, it is not there to make you believe in any sporting ambitions. As for soundproofing, it is among the best on the market in the versatile category.

Then there is the question of tariffs.

A basic 65 hp Fabia starts at € 16,730.

You need € 20,220 for a 95 hp TSI and you need a mid-range version at € 21,870 to have 110 hp and the DG7 gearbox.

Not necessarily cheap, but this is further proof that Skoda as a whole has indeed moved upmarket in recent years.

So much so that we sincerely wonder why still buy a Polo ...

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The Skoda Fabia TSI 95 in a few figures

  • Engine: 3 cyl., Turbo petrol, 999cc;

    95hp at 5,000 rpm;

    175Nm from 1,600 to 3,500 rpm.

  • Transmission: to the front wheels

  • Gearbox: 5-speed manual

  • L / l / h (mm): 4.108 / 1.780 / 1.479

  • Empty weight (kg): nc

  • Boot volume (l): 380-1.190

  • Tank (l): 40

  • 0 to 100 km / h (sec.): 10.6

  • Max speed (km / h): 195

  • Combined consumption (l / 100 km): 5.1

  • CO2 (g / km): 116

  • Price (€): 20.220

  • Automotive

  • Car

  • Skoda