Can Skoda's supermini convert a family to new Fabia fans?

The new Skoda Fabia has already won praise for its sharper design inside and out, and has a much classier feel than the car it replaces. But Skoda has ensured that this hasn’t come at the expense of practicality – and we put this to the ultimate test by taking the striking new car to meet a busy family of four.

The Thornleys, based in Nottingham, downsized a few years ago to a previous-generation Fabia. They run it as a workhorse, for shopping, commuting and days out. So they’re already sold on the space and flexibility the Skoda supermini can offer – but what would they think when we brought them together with the all-new car in our video?

Not surprisingly for a family, it’s the space that impresses most. The Fabia has always had the edge for practicality in its class – the Thornleys’ 2008 model is proof of that – but the latest car sets a new benchmark. Head, leg and shoulder room is generous throughout, and you can even squeeze three across the rear seat.

Plus, neat touches in the new Fabia include hidden drawers under the front seats, as well as an array of storage cubbyholes and cup-holders. On top of that, the car now has a class-leading 330-litre boot space that can be expanded to 1,150 litres by folding the rear seats.

Fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures are just as important for budget-conscious families, though, and the vital statistics of the latest Fabia 1.4 TDI look great compared to the Thornleys’ old diesel. The new car promises over 80mpg and emits less than 100g/km, so it’s exempt from road tax.

Add strong driver appeal and a high-quality finish, and Skoda has an impressive overall package – and as our series of videos reveals, Auto Express readers like the Thornleys couldn’t agree more.

New Skoda Fabia

• Meet the man who designed the new Skoda Fabia• New Fabia to build on Skoda Driver Power performance• Skoda Fabia Estate proves big things fit in small packages 

New Skoda Fabia videos 

• Skoda’s Fabia takes the twentysomething test• Skoda vRS owners meet the new Fabia on the block