Skoda Fabia vs Volkswagen Polo: 2023 twin test review

As you’d expect from a pair of cars that share the same underpinnings – in this case, the VW Group’s MQB-A0 architecture – there are a lot of similarities between this pair. However, that’s no bad thing, because both have plenty of star quality. 

At a time when some brands are throttling back on the supermini sector, the Polo and Fabia make us question why many buyers would need anything larger or more complex. Here we have a pair of cars that measure barely over four metres long, yet pack an impressive amount of refinement, space and tech into safe and solid packages. 

Indeed, in a still hotly contested class, when it comes to the first of those qualities, these two examples are the best of all. There was a time when we’d be worn out just by the thought of undertaking a long motorway slog in a supermini. However, the Polo feels barely any less grown up than the larger Golf when it comes to road noise, suspension compliance and high-speed stability. Surprisingly for a car that’s designed to be at its best in the urban jungle, its motorway comfort is one of its most impressive attributes. 

The Fabia is pretty much on a par when it comes to refinement, though. Its suspension is softer, too; not that the Polo’s is harsh – far from it, in fact – but the Skoda’s even more relaxed setting means that it’s a soothing place to be. This is most obviously felt around town, where the Fabia is the most forgiving car in the sector. 

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For the most part, the pair share the same powertrains. There are several variations of the 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine available, either with a turbo (making 94bhp or 108bhp) or without (79bhp). Depending on power output and trim level, the motors are paired with either a five or six-speed manual, or a seven-speed DSG auto. 

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One thing that slightly lets the side down for the VW, however, is its cabin. While there’s no faulting the finish – once again, the way its interior feels would make you question whether you’re really sitting in a supermini – there are some questionable ergonomic decisions. The heater panel is a touch-sensitive unit that is very fiddly to use. At least the base Life trim keeps the simple, functional rotary dials instead. 

The Fabia gets physical controls across the range and the rest of the cabin is great, too. Which design you prefer will come down to personal preference, but the Skoda gives away nothing to the VW when it comes to material quality. It’s more spacious as well, with slightly more kneeroom for passengers in the back and also a larger boot. The Polo’s 351-litre load volume is still impressive for this class, yet the Fabia’s 380 litres is excellent.

Across the board, then, the Skoda manages to match or even slightly edge the VW. Take the finance figures into account, and it looks even more compelling. Place a £5,000 deposit on a Fabia SE L, and over a three-year PCP agreement with a 10,000-mile annual limit, it’ll cost you £245 per month. 

Match those terms to a Polo Style, and it’ll cost £265. And that’s with the Skoda’s more powerful engine, too; it comes with the 108bhp 1.0 TSI and six-speed manual, while that monthly figure gets you a VW with 94bhp and a five-speed gearbox. 

Both have 16-inch alloys, LED headlights, sat-nav and rear parking sensors. However, the Polo’s extras include front parking sensors and adaptive cruise control – the Fabia SE L gets regular cruise control.

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Results

Which car comes out on top?

Winner: Skoda Fabia

As an overall package, the Fabia beats not only the Polo but pretty much any other rival, too. Class-leading comfort and space are backed up by a smart cabin, impressive refinement and decent performance. When the finance prices are right, it’s virtually impossible to overlook.

Runner up: Volkswagen Polo

The Polo has long been viewed as a supermini benchmark – rightly so – and its second place here isn’t a sign that its standards are slipping; instead, the Fabia really is that good. The VW is a car with few flaws, but its rival is even more spacious and slightly more comfortable.

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Figures