Skip advert
Advertisement

Skoda Fabia vRS

Skoda's hottest ever hatch now comes with a twin-charged petrol engine, but has some of the personality of the old Fabia been lost?

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Avg. savings
£1,554 off RRP*
Find your Skoda Fabia
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The vRS no longer has its unique selling point of diesel power, and with handling that’s engaging rather than thrilling, it’s no match for hardcore opponents such as the Renaultsport Clio. But the 1.4-litre twin-charged engine delivers punchy performance and the seven-speed DSG transmission brings paddleshift performance at a competitive price. Add five-door practicality and subtle styling, and the Fabia is a great hot hatch.

Advertisement - Article continues below

It’s the hottest hatch Skoda has ever made, and it’s hit the UK!

We gave an early verdict on the new Fabia vRS when we drove a European-spec model – and as we reported then, it’s all change under the bonnet.

See the Polo GTI take on the SEAT Ibiza Cupra and Skoda Fabia vRS here:

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"content_narrow","fid":"68536","attributes":{"alt":"","class":"media-image"}}]]

The 1.9-litre TDI diesel, which was so popular in the previous car, has made way for the VW Group’s supercharged and turbocharged 178bhp 1.4-litre TSI petrol unit.

This also powers the SEAT Ibiza Cupra and VW’s new Polo GTI and, like these models, the Skoda comes exclusively with a seven-speed DSG twin-clutch gearbox. Setting it apart on the outside is a small rear spoiler, tinted glass and 17-inch wheels. But with its tall stance, the vRS doesn’t look fully at home as a hot hatch.

Inside, it’s simply laid out and feels well built, if slightly uninspiring. The standard sports seats blend support and comfort, while the three-spoke leather steering wheel and metal-effect pedals add a sporty feel.

On the road, the twin-charged engine revs freely and delivers strong performance. The steering wheel paddles and smooth shift action of the DSG make the car engaging to drive, although the box can kick down too readily.

The steering is accurate if a little numb, while the traction control works hard to curb wheel spin. Despite sports suspension, there’s still some body roll, but the ride is good for a hot hatch.

The fact it’s £3,175 cheaper than a five-door Polo GTI and £1,320 less than the Ibiza Cupra makes it great value, too.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Skoda Fabia

Skoda Fabia

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £1,554 off RRP*Used from £8,900
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £4,500 off RRP*
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,200Avg. savings £4,670 off RRP*Used from £14,998
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,773 off RRP*Used from £11,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025