Skoda Fabia Car Review & Ultimate Buyer's Guide - Features, Warranty Reliability, Price & Lots More

The first-generation Skoda Fabia was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in 1999.

It was initially built on the Volkswagen Group A04 platform, which was the same one used with the VW Group's Polo and SEAT Ibiza as well.

Consequently, it was available in 3 body styles, with these being:

• Skoda Fabia hatchback
• Skoda Fabia Estate - also known as the Combi
• Skoda Fabia Saloon

In 2007, Skoda then released the second-generation Fabia at the Geneva Motor Show.

This version was built on a modified version of the previous A04 platform, which offered you more improved safety features, enhanced interior space, and more advanced technology over the first-generation model. For instance, the first generation has a more rounded, compact design, typical of the early 2000s, than this version. For the first time, an infotainment display was added over the more traditional CD player-style radio of the first generation.

Its exterior design was also more modern and sharper, with a focus on greater fuel efficiency as well, from 47.9 MPG on the first generation up to 83 MPG combined on this one.

Notably, the Fabia vRS, the more high-performance model, was also released. It came with a turbocharged 1.4-litre TSI engine with more sporty characteristics.

The third generation, then launched in 2014 at the Paris Motor Show, marked a significant shift in Fabia's design and features.

For instance, this version was built on the MQB platform, which was shared with other models in the Volkswagen Group, which made the car more reliable than the prior A04 platform the previous versions were built upon.

The design was also more angular and aggressive, which reflected Skoda’s new design language at the time as well, with the interior also seeing upgrades with more high-quality materials, the latest infotainment systems, and more advanced safety kit like adaptive cruise control and lane assist, for instance.

Then in 2021, the latest fourth-generation Fabia was revealed in 2021, which continued to be built on the MQB-A0 platform. Consequently, this model became longer and wider, providing you with more interior space and comfort as a result.

The longer wheelbase with a length of 4,125 mm not only gives you a more spacious interior but also enhances the vehicle's overall road presence at the same time.

The front end of the Fabia is also marked by its very distinctive front grille, which features a chrome frame and a black mesh design.

This is then flanked by angular LED headlights that add the brand's signature crystalline design elements, which add a touch of beauty and modernism to the front design.

The lower bumper, with its integrated fog lights and large air intake, further complements the aggressive stance of this small car while also providing you with a sense of reliability and strength while it does so.

Moving to the rear, the Skoda Fabia then continues to impress us further with its well-sculpted design, as the rear lights, which also feature LED technology, are designed to mirror the crystalline theme you see at the front.

The sharp, angular shapes not only enhance your visibility but also contribute to a very cohesive and stylish look overall.

A subtle spoiler and clean lines then ensure the rear is both functional and good-looking, with a hint of sportiness added to the overall design.

The Skoda Fabia is also offered in a wide range of exterior colours, allowing you to personalise your vehicle to match your exact style while doing so.

From classic shades like Candy White and Brilliant Silver to more vibrant options like Race Blue and Velvet Red, there is a colour to suit every taste.

For instance, you can customise your Fabia in the following colours:

• Energy Blue
• Candy White
• Brilliant Silver
• Graphite Grey
• Moon White
• Phoenix Orange
• Race Blue
• Black Magic
• Velvet Red

Additionally, the choice of contrasting roof colours and custom alloy wheels also further give you more personalisation possibilities, making each Fabia truly unique when on the road, as a result.

The alloy wheels and tyres, for instance, can come in one of the following styles and sizes:

• 16" Proxima silver metallic alloy wheels
• 17" Procyon silver metallic alloy wheels. 215/45 R17 91Wxl low rolling resistance tyres
• 17" Procyon black metallic alloy wheels and black Aero trims. 215/45 R17 91Wxl low rolling resistance tyres
• 18" Libra black metallic brushed alloy wheels. 215/40 R18 91W xl tyres

Beyond aesthetics, the Skoda Fabia's exterior design has been manufactured and designed to give you improved aerodynamics to help you get an increased range from the design alone.

For instance, its sleek lines and carefully considered details really do contribute to reducing your overall drag, which not only enhances your fuel efficiency while doing so but also improves the car's overall performance at the same time.

Features such as the aerodynamically designed side mirrors and the streamlined roof design also play a crucial role in achieving this balance between form and function.

For instance, the interior of the Skoda Fabia is designed with a focus on modern looks and passenger comfort, which is clear when you get inside.

The seats, for example, are very ergonomically designed, offering you a lot of support for long drives. At the same time, the high-quality upholstery materials give the cabin a premium feel.

At the same time, the thoughtfully laid out dashboard and controls also really ensure that everything is within easy reach.

One of Fabia’s core strengths is its intelligent use of its interior space.

For instance, despite being a compact car, it offers you generous legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for both front and rear passengers alike.

The boot space is also commendable and worth mentioning. A car of this size really gives you a lot of space. With 300 litres to 505 litres with the rear seats up, moving to 1,163 litres to 1,485 litres of space with the rear passenger seats down when needed.

This amount of space is more than enough for most people when it comes to their daily commutes or even trips to the airport.

When we look at the technology that it comes with, the Skoda Fabia is also well equipped with a lot of advanced features that really do enhance your overall driving experience considerably.

For instance, the infotainment system is very responsive and intuitive, with a touchscreen display that supports your smartphone through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections.

The car also has a lot of features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports (which are very handy for connecting a dashcam), and a good-quality sound system.

The climate control system in the Škoda Fabia also gives you a very comfortable cabin environment regardless of the weather outside; for instance, the system is easy to operate and effectively maintains the desired temperature inside that you set it.

Ambient lighting also plays a crucial role in creating a pleasant atmosphere inside the car as well, as the Fabia gives you a very subtle yet effective lighting system that really does add to the overall driving experience, especially during night drives, as it allows you to set the mood of the car according to how you are feeling at that moment in time.

For those seeking additional connectivity options, the Fabia also offers advanced features such as its premium sound system, satellite navigation, and wireless charging, which all further help to improve your overall driving experience.

Then, with Wireless SmartLink, you can enjoy the benefit of using your smartphone on the go without ever compromising your safety.

Smartlink, for instance, is a clever feature that enables you to wirelessly connect your smartphone through the infotainment system with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto®.

Then, in the event of an emergency on the road, the Fabia can automatically send an SOS signal to help give you extra peace of mind, which can also be activated manually by pressing a red button on the roof headlining if needed.

With these, you can easily secure more oversized items, ensuring that your luggage items are fixed to the floor using Velcro and can be folded into any angle.

The set of three nets that come as standard really does prevent your items from moving around while keeping them visible to you at the same time.

With the umbrella compartment, you can welcome rainy days with this handy driver’s door compartment, which has been designed to fit the original Škoda umbrella - it also cleverly drains water away from the car if the umbrella is wet, keeping the interior dry while it does so.

With its spacious centre console, you also get a comfortable armrest and a wealth of storage compartments that let you keep essential items out of sight - which also includes a double cup holder for carrying your drinks as well.

In the back seat bench, you will find dedicated rear air vents and USB ports that your passengers can use in the back to keep them completely comfortable and fully charged with adjustable air vents and two USB-C ports on the rear side of the front armrest.

While your front passengers can enjoy heated front seats on selected models when it’s cold out, which your friends and family will really appreciate.

Next up comes the heated windscreen, which gives you a handy function, meaning that you will never have to get out your ice scraper on the windshield again - just let the car melt it for you.

Controlled via the infotainment system, it quickly clears frost or condensation in minutes.

What is the key to starting every journey in double-quick time?

That will be the optional Keyless Entry, Start and Exit System (KESSY), which allows the car to be locked, unlocked and started with a simple touch of a button - no keys needed.

Standard Equipment

• Wheels
  • 15" Rotare silver alloy wheels
  • Wheel bolts with anti-theft protection
• Exterior
  • LED headlights – basic with front fog lights
  • LED daytime running lights with coming and leaving home feature
  • Headlight range control – Automatic
  • Rear lights – Basic
• Interior
  • Studio interior – grey fabric
  • Height adjustable driver's seat
  • Two spoke leather multifunction steering wheel
  • Hand brake lever and gearshift knob in leather for the six-speed manual gearbox
  • Black painted air vents
  • Grain satin black lower decorative trim
  • Front centre armrest
• Entertainment and communication
  • 8.25" Škoda Infotainment touchscreen display
  • 8" Digital instrument display
  • DAB – Digital radio reception
  • Bluetooth connection
  • Wireless Smartlink for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Safety and security
  • E-call+
  • Front assist with pedestrian protection and Lane assist
  • Front side and head airbags
  • ISOFIX and TopTether anchorage points to the outer rear and front passenger seats
• Comfort and convenience
  • Central locking
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Manually controlled air conditioning
  • Central console with removable cup holder and storage box
  • Textile floor mats

Body Colours and Roof Options

For its equipment features over the SE Comfort model, you also get:

Standard equipment (over SE Comfort)

• Wheels
  • 16" Proxima black metallic painted alloy wheels
• Exterior
  • Privacy glass
  • Door mirrors painted in roof colour
  • LED Rear lights
• Interior
  • Loft interior – grey fabric with grey stitching
  • Metallic grey decorative inserts
  • Colour Edition air vents
• Entertainment and communication
  • 8.25" Škoda Infotainment touchscreen display
  • Virtual Cockpit with 10.25" colour display
  • 6 speakers
  • Traffic sign recognition
• Comfort and convenience
  • Keyless start/stop
  • Hill hold control (DSG only)
  • Umbrella in driver’s door
  • Height adjustable front seats
  • Manually adjustable lumbar support in front seats
  • Cruise control with speed limiter
  • Electric windows front and rear

Standard Equipment (over SE Comfort)

• Wheels
  • 16" Proxima silver painted alloy wheels
• Exterior
  • Chrome window surround
  • Privacy glass
  • LED Rear lights
• Interior
  • Lodge interior – grey/black fabric
  • Chrome edged air vents
  • Door sills with Fabia badging
  • Ambient lighting package
  • Textile microsuede grey lower decorative trim with art grey stitching
• Entertainment and communication
  • 9.2" Škoda Navigation display
  • 10.25" Virtual cockpit
  • Care connect and Infotainment online (3 years)
  • Web radio
  • Voice control
• Comfort and convenience
  • Cruise control with speedlimiter
  • Keyless engine start/stop
  • Dual zone climate control
  • Electric windows front and rear
  • Umbrella in driver door
  • Hill hold control

Standard equipment (over Colour Edition)

• Wheels
  • 17" Procyon black painted diamond cut alloy wheels
• Exterior
  • Door mirrors in black
  • Radiator grille and Škoda tailgate lettering in black
  • Monte Carlo badging
  • Sports bumpers
• Interior
  • Three-spoke sports leather multifunction steering wheel
  • Monte Carlo interior – black fabric/artificial leather
  • Front sports seats
  • Black headlining
  • Carbon effect lower decorative trim with white stitching
  • Ambient lighting package
  • Aluminium pedals
  • Door sills with Fabia badging

• Best Import Vehicle in the Small Car Segment at the Auto Motor and Sport Readers' Choice Awards
• Best First Car at the Parkers Car Awards
• Best Small Car at the What Car? Awards
• Best City Car at the UK Car of the Year Awards
• Best Small Car at the Auto Express Awards
• Best Small Car at the Honest John Awards
• Best Budget Car at the Auto Trader New Car Awards
• Best Small Car at the DieselCar & EcoCar Awards
• Best Value Car at the Scottish Car of the Year Awards
• Best Used Car at the Carbuyer Best Car Awards
• Best Small Car at the Fleet News Awards
• Best Compact Car at the World Car Awards
• Best Small Family Car at the Autocar Awards
• Best Supermini at the Telegraph Car Awards
• Best Family Car at the Carwow Awards
• Best Hatchback at the Business Car Awards
• Best Small Hatchback at the Motoring Research Awards
• Best Urban Car at the Women's World Car of the Year Awards
• Best Eco Car at the Green Car Awards
• Best All-Round Car at the AutoVolt Awards
• Euro NCAP 5 Star Award