Skoda Fabia

February 2005

The Fabia was a crucial car for Skoda. With the company's image changing for the better, a top-value, big-selling entry-level model was required - yet it still needed to appeal to traditional budget-conscious Felicia drivers. Few could have predicted what a success the Fabia would be.

Based on the new Polo platform, which parent firm Volkswagen wouldn't use for another two years, the Skoda was a good-looking supermini with a modern cabin and high levels of build quality. It was also affordable, and while base models lacked spec, upper-range versions offered the lot, including luxuries such as heated seats and sat-nav.

Best-sellers are the 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol variants. But there are both 54 and 64bhp versions of the smaller unit. The former is Classic-spec only, and is slow and best avoided. Classic trims are affordable, yet the Comfort brings air-con. Prices start at less than ΂£3,000 - way below VW Polo levels - meaning Skoda's baby makes a lot of sense.

Checklist

• Engine: water leaks cause engine management faults, so check warning lights go out on start-up. Cambelts can snap on 1.4 16v if not changed on the dot, while 1.4 8v can suffer from head gasket trouble.
• Gearbox: autos have a reputation for unreliability. Manual transmissions are more durable, but avoid examples with sloppy linkages.
• Brakes: ABS failure is common, so ensure the dash light illuminates and extinguishes. Faulty airbags can result in a ΂£250 bill - again watch the warning lamp.
• Heater: air-con isn't too reliable, so ensure it blows properly on cold. Diagnosis of failed sensors is time-consuming and costly. Heater problems are revealed by water leaks in the footwells.
• Rear window: the rear screen washer pipes can become detached, soaking the boot when the system is operated. The pipe runs behind the trim panel on the tailgate.

Driving impressions

The Fabia has a superb ride quality and the composure of a much larger car. It can pitch a little through corners, but is safe and predictable, with light steering. The 1.2-litre engines struggle on faster roads, as does the torquey 1.4 8v. Go for the vibrant 1.4 16v, or the 50mpg-plus 1.9 TDI diesel.

Glass's view

This model has been the bread and butter for most Skoda dealers, but it's getting a little long in the tooth, which is softening its appeal. However, the Fabia remains a well built car and is easy to sell on. Older Classics can struggle, as can some of the 8v models. The safe money is on the 1.4 16v Elegance. Although the diesel is good, it doesn't command the same premium as the Polo, so pay only a few hundred pounds more than the petrol. Add ΂£500 over a hatch for an estate.
Jeff Paterson, senior editor, Glass's Guide

Life with a Fabia

My Fabia is a fantastic little car. It provides excellent build quality and surprisingly gutsy performance from its 1.9-litre TDI engine. In short, it's utterly reliable.
Tony Morris, Orpington, Kent

It's generally well built and refined, but my Fabia was let down by a blown head gasket at 25,000 miles, which was surprising. I was extremely well looked after by my local dealer, though.
Robin Caims, Kilmaurs, Kilmarnock

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