Skoda Fabia 1.2 12v Hatchback > Reviews (1)

Update 16th June 2011

As this vehicle is now approaching its first year of service, I'm happy to report no significant problems at all - apart from a leak in the air conditioning system, repaired recently under warranty, and a frozen windscreen washer during some of the worst winter weather experienced in years. (A higher concentration of windscren washer fluid finally resolved this).

Since the car has been in daily use, if anything its performance seems to have improved somewhat, which is gratifying as this was my one slight quibble initially.

I was particularly impressed recently when we managed to transport two elderly relatives, one with severe mobility problems, in relative comfort.

The only other incident to report - entirely my fault but still worth noting - is the security alarm system which was triggered by our dog moving on the back seat while the vehicle was locked for a few minutes. I soon discovered from the driver's manual how to avoid this happening without disabling the system completely. But of course I would never advocate leaving a dog in the car for any length of time, particularly in hot weather!

I have little hesitation in recommending this vehicle, as before. A revised version of my original review follows below.

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Update 25 October 2010

Now it's fully 'run-in', I thought I'd just add a brief note about the performance. While this is perfectly adequate, I can't help wondering about the new TSI engine series. A little more bhp and torque might do no harm. Will keep this under review, along with our 2nd car, the Kia Picanto....

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The new Fabia

Skoda have come such a very long way since my first dirt cheap Estelle - the one they used to joke about - through the Favorit and Felicia to the latest range of Fabias. My wife and I have owned at least one of all these 'generations' as they've steadily improved in just about every respect. No longer quite bargain-basement, perhaps, but they do remain good value for money, and the latest 1.2 12 valve Fabia hatch is no exception.

The car is very solidly built and well finished inside and out. It's sure-footed and comfortable with a good driving position. The 3 cylinder petrol engine may not be state-of-the art but it does the job and is a proven workhorse. Performance, though not quite sparkling, seems acceptable both in town and on the open road. According to the onboard computer - which seemed a bit confusing initially - it's proving pretty economical too. (Details below).

Overall, like preceding models we've owned, this vehicle represents good value and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it as a small family car.

Cost

At just under £10K the Fabia package still seems quite competitive for what is effectively a Volkswagen car - but beware: the 'optional' extras do add up! (see below).

Road tax band D: £90 pa
Emissions: CO2 128 g/km

Insurance group: 2(?

)

Performance

0-60 c.14 seconds
Top speed c. 100mph (not personally tested!)

[See links below for official data]

Economy

We're getting just under the claimed 51mpg but could probably try harder.

EquipmentStandard kit included:

• ABS
• Air conditioning
• Remote central locking
• Alloy wheels ( and more )

Extras included:

• Spare wheel (opted for this)
• Floormats (obtained recently from main dealer and easily fitted)
• Front foglamps (declined)
• Metallic paint (opted for this)

ComfortSeating position is good - with height-adjustable driver's seat, smooth ride and generally solid feel. My wife, who suffers from an arthritic condition, finds driving the Fabia particularly manageable. There's also plenty of room for at least two adults in the back.

As mentioned above, we did have a problem with the air conditioning, fixed under warranty.

Build quality

This car is built like a tank to VW/Audi standards for a good deal less cash!

Convenience

The parking ticket holder inside windscreen is a really nice touch. My wife swears by this and also the heated side mirrors!

Ignition keys have improved since our last Fabia too - it now folds and has a button just to unlock the boot, which can be handy.

Safety and security

I find visibility pretty good all round. Most, if not all the basic safety features seem to be provided, including air bags and ABS. Heated side mirrors are a bonus.

The security systems fitted seem more than adequate.

Verdict

I can still fully recommend the Skoda Fabia as good value for a small family hatchback. We've had several, covering many thousands of virtually trouble-free miles. Product rating just reduced to 4/5 stars following issue with air con.

Related links

Skoda UK : www.skoda.co.uk

Footnotes

• The new 2011 'Monte Carlo' versions look good, in their fancy livery
• Roomster and Yeti models look interesting too
• But for a bit more space, the Octavia and Superb models seem equally good value

Skoda -- turning laughs into smiles. Mostly!

[© SteveS001, 2010, 2011. A version of this original review may be found on other review sites]