The latest model offensive from Skoda finally turns the Czech VW subsidiary into a serious volume brand. Since Volkswagen generally points the way in terms of quality leadership in the B and C segments, it is all the more astonishing that the group subsidiary is allowed such success. The new Škoda Fabia is the first model that is in no way inferior to the VW Polo. So it was time to test the Fabia extensively.

So simple, so good

Škoda Fabia 1.2 TSI MONTE CARLO

The small Škoda Fabia is based on a combination of proven components and assemblies from the MQB. The result is - you can safely anticipate it - just good.

The style of the Czechs seems clear at first glance: timeless and modern. The VW subsidiary leaves the big experimentation to the competitors and impresses with its simple simplicity. The new slightly enlarged logo and the more strongly contoured nose around the radiator grille are considered to be the maximum risk.

Ride comfort and everyday life

When it comes to driving and noise, the new Fabia helps the Volkswagen Polo the measure of all things. Period. The ride comfort is outrageously good and unusual in this vehicle class. Here the little Fabia is recommended almost for a class above. Thanks to the electric power steering, it can be steered through the confusion of the big city with ease and sensitivity. Even if the electric power steering is always said to have a certain numbness, the little Czech belies this prejudice. Here he plays the card of “efficient” technology as well as easy handling.

Gas geben

Škoda offers seven engines for the Monte Carlo, including a basic three-cylinder with 1.0 liter displacement and 75 hp, a 1.2 liter four-cylinder with turbocharging in two output levels (90 and 110 hp) and two diesel engines from 90 to 105 hp.

Škoda Fabia 1.2 TSI - Monte Carlo

The lively little turbo gasoline engine goes well with the equally small Fabia. The typical turbo lag of small gasoline engines is reduced to an absolute minimum and as soon as you have overcome the clutch, which is a little too tight, the 175 Nm push the 1.2 liter small TSI enthusiastically. The economical petrol engine has enough power and behaves almost sportily. This has a stimulating effect on the driver and urges them to shimmy through the rev range. Fortunately, Škoda is adding a 6-speed gearbox to the small turbo engine.

So it remains: The entire package works under the aspect: "Driving experience" wonderfully mature. Nothing booms, nothing rattles, nothing rattles. It simply bounces and cushions itself confidently across the streets with a great feeling of peace and security. The fact that you can travel so comfortably in the polo segment at this price is likely to be the most important finding of the entire test apply!

Equipment and interior

The Fabia in connection with the upscale Monte Carlo equipment and the spicy but economical 1.2 liter TSI costs € 19.680,00 in the base. But the VW subsidiary has also learned from the “best” in the industry when it comes to surcharge lists and packages. The test car made extensive use of the surcharges list and ended up putting over € 22.000 on the price tag.

On the other hand, the Fabia no longer looked like a poor small car in this discipline and the feel-good atmosphere of the rigid body and the comfortable driving noises fit perfectly with the level of equipment. Far from “cheap and easy”. From DAB + radio to climatronic, rain sensor, light sensor, parking sensors to the modern music system Bolero with Mirror-Link interface.

The Mirror-Link System offers seamless integration of the Android smartphone into the infotainment system of the car. Docked with a USB cable, the mobile phone ends up in the shelf. The apps that make the most sense for driving are then operated via the touchscreen on the dashboard. These are currently apps for navigation, audio books or finding a parking space. When using the system, however, you can feel that this technology is still in its infancy. Even if there are still difficulties getting used to it, not every Android phone works and not enough apps have been adapted for use, the Mirror-Link system will prevail in the long run.

In addition to the most modern infotainment package on the market, the new Fabia also offers the expected clever detail solutions: the soon to be legendary ice scraper in the fuel filler flap, the small nets on the sides of the front seats or the trash can for the door shelf.

And finally ...

Modern engines, slimmed curb weight, impressive noise behavior and an armada of clever or practical ideas. The package of gadgets is rounded off by the consistent integration of today's indispensable smartphones.

The Fabia is the only real alternative to the VW Polo on the market. Cheaper, but not worse. Functional and modern in design, but not boring. Powerful turbo gasoline engine, but economical. And the “hut” full of practical ideas!