Skoda Fabia vRS (03-07) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Last Updated: 06 February 2009
Skoda has been doing pretty well under VW's wing, launching an increasingly impressive model line-up that now challenges its parent company in terms of performance and refinement. This is their first stab at a hot hatch - the diesel-powered Fabia vRS. Under the bonnet is a 1.9 TDI engine with a 130bhp. It's a different proposition to the traditional hot hatch and buyers looking for an instant buzz might be disappointed; the talents of the Fabia vRS are more subtle and take a little time to appreciate. But if that doesn't impress you, just remember you'll be getting double the fuel economy of a Focus RS.
4.5 out of 5

Other Skoda reviews

4.5 out of 5

Running costs

On the whole this is a financially sensible purchase - despite the vRS's hot hatch aspirations. Service intervals are good, MPG is outstanding (55mpg) and insurance is competitive (group 9). Even depreciation is relatively gentle.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Minor / 10,000 miles, major 20,000 miles Major / 20,000 miles

Warranty

Mechanical 3 years; bodywork 10 years

Road tax (12 months)

£120.00 - £120.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
    140
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

Fabia is very eco-friendly and easy on the environment. With an average of 140 g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are comparably low for a super mini hatchback. However, it's worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs. Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.9-litre diesel, which is one of the greenest models in the range. The range is very frugal, averaging 53 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2