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

3.5 out of 5

Safety

Four stars in the Euro NCAP safety test. Driver and passenger airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS, MSR and ASR, switchable ESP are all standard. The fuel supply cuts out in a crash, too. Security is taken care of thanks to an alarm/immobiliser, remote central locking and deadlocks.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    4 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

Although the early Fabia hatchbacks (non vRS) had a few teething troubles, we've heard of no problems with this version. Appears to be solidly built.

Car check problem points

Body

Minor dents and scratches.

Engine/Gearbox

Check engine for lumpy idling at lower revs

Other

Most models come with cream-coloured seats. These get dirty very easily and the headrests can get grubby quickly. A dark leather option was available from 2006.

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