Skoda Fabia: Used buyer’s guide

When Skoda launched the Fabia in 2000, it proved it could make a great supermini. Here was a smart, affordable, small car that was fun, reliable and comfortable. So when an all-new Fabia was unveiled in 2007, Skoda aimed to carry over all the best bits of the original, but with improvements in key areas such as safety, refinement and performance. That second take on the Fabia is now six years old, and it’s the oldest model in Skoda’s line-up – so should you buy a used one?

• Skoda Fabia in-depth review

History

The Fabia MkII debuted in May 2007. With 1.2, 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol engines, along with 1.4 or 1.9-litre diesels, this newcomer proved as popular as the MkI. The high-spec Sport appeared in January 2008, a month before the estate reached showrooms. The ultra-economical Fabia 1.4 TDI GreenLine arrived in April 2008, with the off-road-style Fabia Scout following three months later. A facelifted model debuted in March 2010, with a range of more efficient engines (including a 1.6 TDI diesel), a revised nose and the option of a brilliant dual-clutch transmission.

Alternatives

The post-2008 SEAT Ibiza is closely related to the second-generation Fabia, so it comes with a similar engine line-up, but it’s a bit more fun to drive – it’s also more distinctively styled. If you want genuine behind-the-wheel fun, the Ford Fiesta is the car for you, especially as it’s plentiful and cheap to buy. The Vauxhall Corsa is also easy to find, good value and practical. Buyers prioritising reliability should check out the Toyota Yaris. Not only is it dependable, it’s also safe, plus well built and equipped. It’s just not much fun

Running costs