Skoda Fabia Hatchback (07 on) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 15 February 2011
The handsome new Fabia sticks to what the original model has been doing since it was launched in 2000. It's well built, practical and good value - in short an appealing car to own, while excellent ride quality makes it comfortable too so it's great for town driving. It's equally capable on the open road, but despite precise steering the Fabia isn't particularly agile on more demanding roads. Plus the diesel engines are noisy - especially on the motorway. Although it looks all-new, much of what's underneath the metal is carried over from the old car but that's good news - the Fabia has built a reputation for strong reliability and the latest model will doubtless carry this over. There's also an eco-friendly model, badged Greenline, which emits just 109g/km of CO2 and averages 69mpg. In 2010 the Fabia was tweaked with a new front end, this included a reworked radiator grille and the 3D-shaped headlamps have been widened. The Czech maker also introduced an 85bhp 1.2-litre TSI petrol engine to its line-up. Skoda has also added the vRS variants in hatch and estate guises to complete the Fabia range, along with a special edition hatchback model called the Monte Carlo.
4 out of 5

Other Skoda reviews

3.5 out of 5

Buying new

New prices are about the same as they were when the original Fabia was launched in 2000 - and that represents good value as you'll be buying a roomier, safer and more comfortable car. It should still be possible to negotiate a modest discount though or get some options thrown in for free.

Buy a new Skoda Fabia Hatchback and save 16% on selected models

3.5 out of 5

Buying used

The Fabia is more practical than most and makes a great value buy considering how well equipped most models are. The best cars are mopped up by Skoda dealers and these cars are offered under Skoda's approved used scheme. That means every car has had a mechanical inspection, a check into its history and at least one year’s warranty. It’s the safest way to buy a used car.

  • Boot/Load Space Skoda Fabia Hatchback (07 on)
  • Interior Skoda Fabia Hatchback (07 on)

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See 451 used Skoda Fabia Hatchbacks for sale, starting at £3,794

3.5 out of 5

Selling

Strong demand for small, cheap to run hatchbacks means a ready-made market so there should be few problems selling. The 1.2-litre may be the entry-level engine but it's adequate enough for most buyers. It's also worth emphasising the fact that the Skoda uses VW components under the skin. The Greenline models will always be sought after thanks to cheap road tax and impressive economy.