Overview

We like the Skoda Fabia. We think it’s one of the best small cars on sale today, even though its ethos has shifted for this current generation model. The Fabia’s biggest selling point was always that it was cheap to buy and run, but as the car has passed through its four generations, that proposal has evolved into ‘value for money.’ That’s subtly different, because it no longer means you’re looking at the least amount of money for a car – you’re looking at the most amount of car for your money.

The Skoda Fabia makes particular sense when viewed alongside its Volkswagen Group counterparts, the SEAT Ibiza and VW Polo. Unlike previous versions of the car, it doesn’t cut corners with a plasticky cabin and last-season’s tech. It offers everything its rivals can and more, just without the price-tag to match. We rate it so highly that we picked it as our Best First Car for 2023 in the Parkers New Car Awards.

Like its sister cars, the Fabia is powered by a range of simple petrol engines. That means there’s none of the hybrid cleverness offered by the Renault Clio or Toyota Yaris (and in turn none of the complication or additional cost). Despite the lack of electrification, though, every version of the Fabia can still return fuel economy figures in the 50mpg-range.

This impressive efficiency figure is thanks in part to some clever technology, such as active cooling shutters in the front grille to help reduce the Fabia’s wind resistance at speed. The 1.5-litre model also features cylinder shut down, which can deactivate two of the engine’s four cylinders for better fuel economy.

Skoda’s trim-level range is pleasingly simple. Buyers can choose from S, SE Comfort, SE L and Colour Edition specifications, plus a sportier Monte Carlo variant equipped with a punchy 1.5-litre petrol and automatic gearbox. The standard Fabia gets a 1.0-litre petrol in various states of tune, both with and without turbocharging.

Don’t go looking for a true hot hatchback, nor an associated electric model. The Skoda offers neither. However, it is available with a range of bright colours and sharp alloy wheel designs, while LED headlight technology is standard across the range.

Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Skoda Fabia and rating them in our verdict. Our scores will consider the car’s practicality, interior quality, running costs and driving experience.