Our heavily optioned test car tipped our scales at 1134kg. Skoda’s figures put the 1.4 at 1060kg, 4kg lighter than the model we tested in 2000, and among the lightest in the current class; only the Punto is lighter.
At first the 1.4-litre 16-valve engine’s 85bhp appears less than impressive, with the Corsa, Clio and 207 all providing more poke. But the Fabia’s peak power is produced earlier, as is the decent 97lb ft of torque. Smooth, linear and equally happy at either end of the rev range, the 1.4’s weakness is a slightly more audible voice than some rivals. Fuel economy is a decent 32.4mpg average.
On the mile straight, our 1.4 hit 60mph from rest in 11.5sec, quicker than Skoda’s claims and fast enough to match the more powerful Clio as the quickest in class. Around the bowl it just clicked into triple figures, losing the fight to aerodynamic drag at 104mph. One caveat, though: fill the Fabia to capacity and the pace drops markedly.
Although the 256mm front discs threatened to bonfire themselves after only three major stops, they brought the car to a halt from 70mph in an impressive 47.0m and in conventional driving perform well, with excellent pedal feel.
Value for money has been at the heart of Skoda’s revitalisation. But recently, it has indicated a desire to move its pricing closer to the competition’s. A keen eye is therefore turned upon the equipment. Even the most basic Fabia offers front and side airbags, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, central locking, electric front windows and radio/CD with an aux socket – a tremendous amount of stuff for £7990.
The Fabia 2 spec of our test car adds useful functions such as air-con, halogen lights, 15in alloys, four more speakers and an alarm.
While the £10,295 price represents a saving of a couple of hundred pounds over a comparable Clio, Corsa or Fiesta, the Fabia is no longer the bargain it once was. Residuals should be among the best in class.