Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021) Review

Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021) At A Glance

4/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The Skoda Fabia gives you everything you'd expect of a modern Skoda – it feels robustly built, is spacious for its size and comes with a great range of engines – yet it undercuts rivals on price.

+Practical cabin with an impressively spacious boot, DAB radio and Bluetooth as standard, comfortable and easy to drive.

-Base model doesn't have air con or alloy wheels.

Insurance Groups are between 3–14
On average it achieves 81% of the official MPG figure

The Skoda Fabia is a car that does everything well. Inside, it's robust interior belies the fact that the Skoda undercuts almost all of its main rivals on price and, while it's not quite as polished inside as the likes of the Ford Fiesta, it does have more passenger space and a bigger boot. The dashboard is also a model of intuitiveness and most Fabias come with an infotainment screen that can mirror the display of your smartphone. The Skoda puts in a similarily well-rounded performance on the road, okay so it doesn't give you the seat-of-the-pants thrills you get from some small hatchbacks, but it is easy to drive, comfortable and cheap to run. You'd be hard pushed to complain. 

The Skoda Fabia has always been a sensible choice of small car and the latest incarnation keeps up the tradition. It’s reasonably priced, cheap to run, comfortable and practical, but gets an added dash of upmarket appeal thanks to new Skoda family styling and extra technology, including standard DAB radio and Bluetooth.

The engine range is made up exclusively of frugal options, the entry-level engine being a 1.0-litre petrol producing 60PS. There's also a 75PS version of the same engine, while a 1.0-litre turbocharged unit is also available with 95PS or 110PS. Diesel buyers get a 1.4-litre producing 75PS, 90PS or 105PS.

Our pick of the range is the 95PS 1.0-litre petrol, which is perky and responsive yet still very efficient returning official economy of 64.2mpg. Although none of the engines are particularly exciting, and the Fabia isn't a fun car to drive, it is quiet and comfortable, both in town and on the motorway.

It's practical, too. The boot is a good size at 330 litres – significantly ahead of rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. Despite this fact, there’s space in the back for two adults to sit in reasonable comfort – though children will be more at home here. There are also two Isofix mounting points in the rear as standard.

Up front there’s a neat dashboard with logical controls and clear dials, with upmarket details such as a touchscreen system on offer. That said, despite more technology being available, the Fabia does lag a little when it comes to materials, with no plush, soft-touch plastics like you’d see on many rival models including the Volkswagen Polo.

But the Fabia does represent excellent value for money thanks to reasonable list prices, decent equipment levels and low running costs. This, combined with its grown-up feel, makes it a strong contender in the competitive supermini segment.

Looking for a second opinion? Read heycar's review of the Skoda Fabia

Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021) handling and engines

Driving Rating
The Skoda Fabia isn't going to set your hair on fire with its keen turn in and explosive performance, but it does get you from A to B perfectly well.

Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021): Handling and ride quality

Sure, it's not a car that goads you into driving quickly, but the Skoda has plenty of grip in bends and it corners safely and predictable. Monte Carlo models stick more vigoursly and their stiffer suspension makes them feel neater but, really, they're more capable than truly fun in bends.

For that sort of thing, you'll be better off with the playfully agile Ford Fiesta or the fluidity of the Volkswagen Polo. 

No, what the Fabia does well is go about its business with the minimum of fuss. Steering that's a bit dull on bendy country roads is light and makes the car easy to manoeuvre in town, although sneaking through gaps in traffic would be easier if it was more direct. That said, the Skoda's boxy shape is easy to judge when you're parking.

Hit the motorway and the ride that can be a little jiggly in town starts to settle down although you will hear noticeable road noise, more in models with the bigger wheels. If you'll do lots of motorway miles its worth considering the optional active cruise control (£400) which can accelerate and brake the car for you on the motorway.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
1.0 60 58 mpg 15.7 s 106 g/km
1.0 75 58–59 mpg 14.7 s 108 g/km
1.0 MPI 60 58–58 mpg 15.7–16.6 s 108–110 g/km
1.0 MPI 75 58 mpg 14.9 s 111 g/km
1.0 TSI 110 60–64 mpg 9.5–9.7 s 103–107 g/km
1.0 TSI 110 DSG 60–61 mpg 9.8–10.1 s 106 g/km
1.0 TSI 95 61–64 mpg 10.6–10.8 s 101–124 g/km
1.0 TSI 95 DSG - 11.1–11.2 s 128–135 g/km
1.2 TSI 110 59–60 mpg 9.4 s 109–110 g/km
1.2 TSI 110 DSG 60 mpg 9.4 s 109 g/km
1.2 TSI 90 60 mpg 10.9 s 107 g/km
1.4 TDI 105 67 mpg 10.1 s 90 g/km
1.4 TDI 75 72 mpg 13.1 s 93 g/km
1.4 TDI 90 72–83 mpg 11.1 s 88 g/km
1.4 TDI 90 DSG 71–79 mpg 11.1 s 94 g/km

Real MPG average for the Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

81%

Real MPG

35–73 mpg

MPGs submitted

505

Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021) interior

Interior Rating
The Skoda Fabia's Simply Clever features are, well, clever – they're the icing on the cake of what is a very practical small car.
Dimensions
Length 3992–4262 mm
Width 1958 mm
Height 1452–1488 mm
Wheelbase 2470 mm

Full specifications

Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021): Practicality

Inside, the Skoda Fabia manages to seem much bigger than it is. Upfront, it feels like a relatively wide car so you won't be clashing elbows with your passenger or clutching for their knee every time you go change gear.

The driving position is also excellent with a wide range of adjustment for both the steering wheel and the driver's seat so, whether you're tall or small, getting comfortable shouldn't be a problem and there's no issue with headroom.

Accessing the back seat is made easier by the fact that the Fabia only comes with five doors. Once you're in, you'll find you get more knee room than you do in most small cars, headroom is fine and so is elbow and hip room. That said, the firmness of the perched middle seat will make your fifth passenger feel like they've endured an atomic wedgie every time the car hits a bump.

Ah well, the dog will be happy with the relatively large 330-litre boot and the Skoda's cabin is strewn with smaller storage spaces so you'll have no issues keeping it tidy. Skoda's Simply Clever features include things like an umbrella hidden under the your seat and an ice scraper under the fuel cap. Nice!

Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021) value for money

Value for Money Rating
You'll see the Skoda Fabia in its best light when it is paired with Skoda's excellent 95PS petrol engine which gives eager performance but also sips fuel.

Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021): Prices

The range kicks off with the basic S model which starts from £14,290 with the 95PS engine and you'll pay an extra £1040 to pair it with a slick-shifting twin-clutch automatic gearbox. 

SE models offer the best value and start from £14,050 – paired with a 60PS petrol – while SE Drive models come with in-built sat-nav and will squeeze your wallet for at least £15,110. Or you can pay the same starting price for a Colour Edition car with a contrast paint job.

SE L models amount to the posh Fabia, while Monte Carlo cars get sporty looks – akin to a hot hatch but without the performance.

In terms of options, you can have alloy wheels up to 18 inches in diameter (£770), front and rear parking sensors (£315) and bright-shining LED headlights (£995). If you want to make the cabin feel light and airy – it is rather dark otherwise – go for the glass roof (£665) and if you do lots of motorway driving, cruise control (£195) is another worthwhile flamboyance. 

An SE model with the 95PS petrol engine offers the best value and you can have a year-old, less-than 15,000-mile example for just £11,000 from a franchised dealer with all the peace of mind that brings.

Or push the boat out on a sporty looking Monte Carlo model with the pokey 110PS engine, one that's a few months old and has fewer than 3000 miles on the clock. You'll pay less than £14,000 for a show-room fresh example like this.

 

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Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021) models and specs

The Skoda Fabia is available in S, SE, SE Drive, Colour Edition, SE L and Monte Carlo trim levels. S models represent the more basic end of the spectrum – easily spotted by their plastic wheel trims – they get electric front windows and automatic emergency brakes.

SE models make a noticeable specification leap thanks to their alloy wheels and you'll also welcome their standard air-conditioning on hot summer days, as well as their smartphone-compatible infotainment screen.

SE Drive models add kit like front and rear parking sensors, in-built sat-nav and get bigger 16-inch alloys, up from 15s in the standard SE. Colour Edition models, meanwhile, swap the in-built sat-nav for a contrast paint job, get cruise control, but not front parking sensors.

SE L models feel posher inside thanks to their suede upholstery and front-centre armrest, plus they get climate control which can maintain a preselected cabin temperature.

Finally, there are the Monte Carlo models which come as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels and a natty body kit, while inside they get sporty touches like bolstered seats and polished pedals.

Dimensions
Length 3992–4262 mm
Width 1958 mm
Height 1452–1488 mm
Wheelbase 2470 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 980–1301 kg
Boot Space 305–1395 L
Warranty 3 years / 60000 miles
Servicing 10000–18000 miles
Costs
List Price £10,525–£19,820
Insurance Groups 3–14
Road Tax Bands A–E
Official MPG 57.6–83.1 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall 5

On sale until November 2022

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Black Edition TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - 11.1 s
Black Edition TSi 95 Start/Stop 5dr - - 10.7 s
SE TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £18,015 - 11.2 s
SE-L TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £19,205 - 11.2 s

On sale until July 2022

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Monte Carlo TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £19,820 - 11.2 s
SE Drive TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £19,010 - 11.2 s
Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0 MPI 60ps Colour Edition 5dr - - -
1.0 MPI 60ps S 5dr - 57.7 mpg 16.6 s
1.0 MPI 60ps SE 5dr - - -
1.0 MPI 60ps SE Drive 5dr £15,340 - 16.4 s
1.0 TSI 110ps Monte Carlo 5dr £17,830 60.1 mpg 9.6 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE 5dr £15,805 60.1 mpg 9.6 s
1.0 TSI 110PS SE Drive 5dr £17,520 - 9.7 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE L 5dr £17,155 60.1 mpg 9.6 s
1.0 TSI 95ps Colour Edition 5dr - 61.4 mpg 10.8 s
1.0 TSI 95ps Monte Carlo 5dr - 61.4 mpg 10.8 s
1.0 TSI 95ps S 5dr - 61.4 mpg 10.8 s
1.0 TSI 95ps SE 5dr - 61.4 mpg 10.8 s
1.0 TSI 95ps SE Drive 5dr £16,870 - 10.7 s
1.0 TSI 95ps SE L 5dr - 61.4 mpg 10.8 s
Colour Edition TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £17,950 - 11.1 s
Monte Carlo TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £18,930 - 11.1 s
S TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £15,560 - 11.1 s
SE Drive TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £17,950 - 11.1 s
SE TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £16,850 - 11.1 s
SE-L TSi 95 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr £18,305 - 11.1 s

On sale until October 2019

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0 MPI 75 Colour Edition 5dr £14,975 57.7 mpg 14.9 s
1.0 MPI 75ps S 5dr £13,135 57.7 mpg 14.9 s
1.0 MPI 75ps SE 5dr £14,425 57.7 mpg 14.9 s
1.0 MPI 75ps SE L 5dr £15,775 57.7 mpg 14.9 s
1.0 TSI 110 Monte Carlo DSG 5dr £18,830 60.1 mpg 10.1 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE DSG 5dr £16,805 60.1 mpg 10.1 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE L DSG 5dr £18,155 60.1 mpg 10.1 s

On sale until November 2018

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0 MPI 60ps S 5dr £11,400 57.6 mpg 15.7 s
1.0 MPI 60ps S Plus 5dr £10,525 57.6 mpg 15.7 s
1.0 MPI 75 Colour Edition 5dr £14,190 57.6 mpg 14.7 s
1.0 MPI 75ps S 5dr £12,280 57.6 mpg 14.7 s
1.0 MPI 75ps SE 5dr £13,650 57.6 mpg 14.7 s
1.0 MPI 75ps SE L 5dr £14,440 57.6 mpg 14.7 s
1.0 TSI 110ps Monte Carlo 5dr £16,855 64.2 mpg 9.5 s
1.0 TSI 110ps Monte Carlo DSG 5dr £17,855 61.4 mpg 9.8 s
1.0 TSI 110ps RedLine 5dr £16,025 64.2 mpg 9.5 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE 5dr £15,030 64.2 mpg 9.5 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE DSG 5dr £16,030 61.4 mpg 9.8 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE L 5dr £15,820 64.2 mpg 9.5 s
1.0 TSI 110ps SE L DSG 5dr £16,820 61.4 mpg 9.8 s
1.0 TSI 95ps Colour Edition 5dr £14,920 64.2 mpg 10.6 s
1.0 TSI 95ps Monte Carlo 5dr £16,205 64.2 mpg 10.6 s
1.0 TSI 95ps S 5dr £13,010 64.2 mpg 10.6 s
1.0 TSI 95ps SE 5dr £14,380 64.2 mpg 10.6 s
1.0 TSI 95ps SE L 5dr £15,170 64.2 mpg 10.6 s
1.2 TSI 90 Colour Edition 5dr £14,685 60.1 mpg 10.9 s
1.4 TDI 105ps Monte Carlo 5dr £18,745 67.3 mpg 10.1 s
1.4 TDI 105ps SE L 5dr £17,710 67.3 mpg 10.1 s
1.4 TDI 75ps S 5dr £14,595 72.4 mpg 13.1 s
1.4 TDI 90ps Monte Carlo 5dr £18,105 72.4 mpg 11.1 s
1.4 TDI 90ps SE 5dr £16,280 72.4 mpg 11.1 s
1.4 TDI 90ps SE DSG 5dr £17,280 70.6 mpg 11.1 s
1.4 TDI 90ps SE L 5dr £17,070 72.4 mpg 11.1 s
1.4 TDI 90ps SE L DSG 5dr £18,070 70.6 mpg 11.1 s

On sale until September 2017

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0 MPI 75ps Monte Carlo 5dr £14,795 58.9 mpg 14.7 s
1.2 TSI 110ps Monte Carlo 5dr £16,480 58.9 mpg 9.4 s
1.2 TSI 110ps Monte Carlo DSG 5dr £17,480 60.1 mpg 9.4 s
1.2 TSI 110ps S DSG 5dr £13,890 60.1 mpg 9.4 s
1.2 TSI 110ps SE 5dr £14,655 58.9 mpg 9.4 s
1.2 TSI 110ps SE DSG 5dr £15,655 60.1 mpg 9.4 s
1.2 TSI 110ps SE L 5dr £15,445 58.9 mpg 9.4 s
1.2 TSI 110ps SE L DSG 5dr £16,445 60.1 mpg 9.4 s
1.2 TSI 90ps Monte Carlo 5dr £15,830 60.1 mpg 10.9 s
1.2 TSI 90ps SE 5dr £14,005 60.1 mpg 10.9 s
1.2 TSI 90ps SE L 5dr £14,795 60.1 mpg 10.9 s
1.4 TDI 90ps M\carlo DSG 5dr £18,275 74.3 mpg 11.1 s
1.4 TDI 90ps S 5dr £14,090 83.1 mpg 11.1 s
1.4 TDI 90ps S DSG 5dr £15,105 78.5 mpg 11.1 s

On sale until October 2015

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
S 1.4 TDI 90 5dr £14,090 83.1 mpg 11.1 s

Model History

July 2014

Skoda reveals first sketch of new Fabia

This is the first time in a series production vehicle that Skoda designers have incorporated elements from the Skoda VisionC concept. Skoda motorsport has also provided inspiration for the final design.

The hatchback model is characterised by well-balanced, tight proportions. The new Fabia is now nine centimetres wider and stands three centimetres lower. In addition, the Fabia now offers a completely new, versatile interior with individual options for customization.

October 2014

Prices and specifications

Fabia S 1.0 MPI 60PS manual £10,600 (106g/km: Band B)

Fabia S 1.0 MPI 75PS manual £11,460 (108g/km: Band B)

Fabia S 1.2 TSI 110PS DSG £13,740 (109g/km: Band B)

Fabia S 1.4 TDI 90PS manual £14,090 (88g/km: Band A)

Fabia S 1.4 TDI 90PS DSG £15,090 (94g/km: Band A)

Fabia SE 1.0 MPI 75PS manual £12,760 (108g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE 1.2 TSI 90PS manual £13,390 (107g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE 1.2 TSI 110PS manual £14,040 (110g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE 1.2 TSI 110PS DSG £15,040 (109g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE 1.4 TDI 90PS manual £15,390 (88g/km: Band A)

Fabia SE 1.4 TDI 90PS DSG £16,390 (94g/km: Band A)

Fabia SE L 1.0 MPI 75PS manual £13,610 (108g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE L 1.2 TSI 90PS manual £14,240 (107g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE L 1.2 TSI 110PS manual £14,890 (110g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE L 1.2 TSI 110PS DSG £15,890 (109g/km: Band B)

Fabia SE L 1.4 TDI 90PS manual £16,240 (88g/km: Band A)

Fabia SE L 1.4 TDI 90PS DSG £17,240 (94g/km: Band A)

Fabia SE L 1.4 TDI 105PS manual £16,840 (90g/km: Band A)

All models are 14% BIK except the 1.2 TSI 110 manual, which is 15% BIK.

August 2015

Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo launched

The Fabia Monte Carlo builds on the already comprehensive standard equipment of the Fabia SE. It adds 16-inch Italia black alloy wheels, a black radiator grille and black door mirror caps, body coloured rear spoiler, front fog lights, LED daytime running lights, sunset glass, Monte Carlo badging on the B-pillar and a panoramic glass sunroof.

On the inside, additional equipment includes bespoke front sports seats, front and rear floor mats with red stitching, black decorative inserts, a cherry red centre console, Monte Carlo pedals, a multi-function sports steering wheel, pearl grey roof lining and carpet, and Monte Carlo badging on the front door inserts. The Fabia Monte Carlo Estate also comes with black roof rails.

Fabia Monte Carlo CO 2 MPG Insurance grp BiK 2015/16 P11D value RRP OTR
Hatch 1.0 MPI 75PS 108 58.9 3E 16% £14,590 £14,645.00
1.2 TSI 90PS 107 60.1 8E 16% £15,220 £15,275.00
1.2 TSI 110PS 110 58.9 12E 17% £15,870 £15,925.00
1.2 TSI 110PS DSG 109 60.1 12E 16% £16,870 £16,925.00
1.4 TDI 90PS 93 78.6 11E 16% £17,220 £17,275.00
1.4 TDI 105PS 95 76.4 12E 17% £17,820 £17,875.00
Estate 1.2 TSI 90PS 107 60.1 8E 16% £16,085 £16,140.00
1.2 TSI 110PS 110 58.9 12E 17% £16,735 £16,790.00
1.4 TDI 90PS 94 78.5 11E 16% £18,085 £18,140.00
1.4 TDI 105PS 97 76.4 12E 17% £18,685 £18,740.00

March 2017

1.0 TSI engine replaces 1.2 TSI

The output of the 1.0 TSI is 95PS, while the output of the more powerful version is 110PS but offers an improved torque figure of 200Nm (previously 175Nm).

The power output of the Fabia 1.0 TSI with manual five-speed transmission is 95PS. Torque remains unchanged at 160 Nm, yet the driving performance has been improved.

Compared to the 1.2 litre engine with four cylinders acceleration from 0 to 62 mph has improved by 0.3 seconds to 10.6 seconds. The fuel consumption and emissions have improved considerably from 61.4 mpg (105g CO2/km) to 65.7 mpg (99 g CO2/km).

Just like its 1.2-litre predecessor, the more powerful 1.0-litre engine with manual six-speed transmission delivers 110PS, however, its torque has increased from 175 to 200Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph is achieved in 9.5 seconds. In the manual version fuel consumption and emissions are now 64.2mpg (101g CO2/km). For the DSG-transmission versions, fuel consumption has improved to 62.8mpg (104g CO2/km).

August 2018

Prices for new Fabia announced

All models in the new range now feature LED daytime running lights as standard along with Front Assist and a Multifunction Trip Computer. Entry-level Fabia S models are priced from £12,840 OTR.

Customers stepping up to the SE model (from £14,115 OTR) can choose from all drivetrain options and gain front fog lights and 15-inch Cygnus alloy wheels over the outgoing model, along with Radio Swing Plus and auto up/down function for the electric windows. Colour Edition models, priced from £14,665, gain 16-inch Vigo alloy wheels in white, silver or black.

Customers opting for the SE L benefit from an even more significant equipment boost over the previous model. Priced from £15,205 OTR, Fabia SE L models now feature Amundsen satellite navigation, Infotainment Online (for one year), lighting in the front centre console and 16-inch Evora alloy wheels. These items are in addition to the outgoing Fabia SE L’s already comprehensive specification list.

Priced from £16,785, the ever-popular Fabia Monte Carlo further enhances its reputation for sportiness with a range of new features. These include climate control air conditioning, LED rear lights, rear electric windows and new seat upholstery. The styling package includes a black front spoiler, black roof, black floor mats and carbon-effect dashboard trim.

Hatch

Engine

Recommended OTR

Fabia S

1.0 MPI 75PS

£12,840.00

1.0 TSI 95PS

£13,570.00

Fabia SE

1.0 MPI 75PS

£14,115.00

1.0 TSI 95PS

£14,845.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£15,495.00

1.0 TSI 110PS DSG

£16,495.00

Fabia SE L

1.0 MPI 75PS

£15,205.00

1.0 TSI 95PS

£15,935.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£16,585.00

1.0 TSI 110PS DSG

£17,585.00

Fabia Monte Carlo

1.0 TSI 95PS

£16,785.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£17,435.00

1.0 TSI 110PS DSG

£18,435.00

Fabia Colour Edition

1.0 MPI 75PS

£14,665.00

1.0 TSI 95PS

£15,395.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£18,320.00

Estate

Engine

Recommended OTR

Fabia S

1.0 MPI 75PS

£13,860.00

1.0 TSI 95PS

£14,590.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£15,240.00

Fabia SE

1.0 MPI 75PS

£15,280.00

1.0 TSI 95PS

£16,010.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£16,660.00

1.0 TSI 110PS DSG

£17,660.00

Fabia SE L

1.0 TSI 95PS

£17,100.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£17,750.00

1.0 TSI 110PS DSG

£18,750.00

Fabia Monte Carlo

1.0 TSI 95PS

£17,670.00

1.0 TSI 110PS

£18,320.00

February 2020

Skoda Fabia SE Drive announced

Based on the SE, the SE Drive adds 16-inch Aronia alloy wheels, unique fabric upholstery and dashboard decor. Customers also benefit from an Amundsen navigation system with Infotainment Online for one year and front and rear parking sensors as standard. Also included as standard are a surround sound package with six speakers, smartlink+ for connectivity with mobile devices, air conditioning and a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel.

SE Drive can be specified on both Fabia hatch and estate models, and is available with three engine options. Power outputs range from 60PS to 110PS (60PS hatch only); prices range from £14,865 (OTR) for the 1.0 TSI 60PS model to £18,290 (OTR) for the 1.0 TSI 110PS variant.

June 2020

Skoda Fabia updated

In the Fabia, the 95PS 1.0 TSI will switch to the Euro 6d emissions standard in the second half of the year. The three-cylinder direct-injection engine will then also be available with a 7-speed DSG in addition to the manual 5-speed gearbox, which comes as standard. The entry-level 1.0 MPI with an output of 60PS and manual 5-speed gearbox will also be converted to Euro 6d. The black polished 17-inch Blade alloys are being added to the wheel portfolio. All Fabia models will be fitted with an activated carbon filter and the new version of the optional KESSY keyless vehicle entry system, in which the transmitter signal is deactivated if the key is not moved for five minutes.

What to watch out for

19-06-2010:

Report of both remote keys for a 2016/66 Skoda Fabia constantly draining their batteries. Dealer unable to adequately explain.

21-07-2015:

Complaint that Mirrorlink Sygic satnav in a new Skoda Fabia could not be made to work with a reader's phone.

10-12-2015:

Report of new Skoda Fabia purchased in August 2015 mysteriously bursting into flames in November 2015. Supplying dealer generously bought it back for the original price paid and offered a £3,000 additional contribution towards a replacement Octavia rather than a Fabia.

24-04-2016:

Report of Fabia 1.2TSI starting normally, then mysteriosly cutting out and failing to re-start. No ignition or dash lights, but electric windows, indicators etc working. The AA checked fuses etc., all ok. The AA disconnected the battery for 5 mins and when it was reconnected the engine started immediately, and everything back to normal. Maybe battery earth strap. Maybe alternator.

08-06-2016:

Report of intermittent radio fault on March 2015 Fabia from new. Radio does not turn on sometimes. Also loses Bluetooth phone connection. Dealership took car back 5 times but fault is still there. One year three months later the dealer has taken the car back again. Made me an offer of buying the vehicle back at book value.

13-04-2017:

Complaint that rear brake pads on a 2015 Skoda Fabia only lasted 9,000 miles. No corrosion to the discs. Skoda dealer put down to wear and tear.

01-01-0001:

Rust reported on all four brake discs of 2015 Skoda Fabia, pitted at the rear, at 14,000 miles mainly long run use.

09-06-2017:

Complaint of notchy change into 1st gear from neutral on a 2017 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI 90PS with 5-speed gearbox. Not a problem if engine started with clutch depressed and 1st gear then selected. Only a problem selecting 1st gear from neutral. Owner made some further investigations and established that the external mechanism is part-cable, part-mechanical and that a notchy change is normal for the model, not something that can be fixed. Dealer offered to grease the mechanism and, because the issue was raised early, there is an indefinite warranty on the mechanism.

04-05-2018:

Report of low speed but heavy crash in 2015 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI DSG where driver monoeuvring in a narrow street felt some drivetrain judder then probably hit the accelerator instead of the brake and drove at speed into a driveway and a house. Interrogation of the ECU should determine if the accelerator was being pressed at the time.

08-05-2018:

Report of "scraping noises" in 1st and 2nd gear of 2016 Skoda Fabia 1.2 110PS DQ200 DSG at 14,000 miles.

10-05-2018:

Report of turbo failing on 2017 Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI 110 (EA111) at 1650 miles. Turbo replaced under warranty without question by the dealer and owner provided with a courtesy car during the repair.

19-10-2018:

Report that 2016 Skoda Fabia needed new rear brake discs at 8,739miles. Howver, koda ealer chareged a very reasonable £235 for the job.

27-03-2019:

Report of problem of Petrol Particulate Filter of Skoda Fabia (1.0?) TSI DSG filling up at 4,000 miles fter being driven as speeds limited to 30mph at which the DSG keeps revs down to 1,500. Owner recommended to override the DSG and keep the revs up to 2,000rpm until the engine is properly warmed up.

03-05-2019:

Problems reported with 30,000 mile 2016 Skoda Fabia 1.2TSI DSG estate purchased used in March 2019. DSG gearbox was not functioning as it should. It was jerky, particularly in the lower gears when pulling uphill, and produced a low pitched rumbling sound. A month later, when moving from rest at about 10 mph, two huge bangs rocked the car, the transmission appeared briefly to freeze locking the wheels, and an alarm sounded. Owner was able to restart the car and the incident has not reoccurred. The dealer checked the car but was not able to say what happened. However, he re-set the clutch plates and changed the gear box oil. Gear changing is now smooth and much improved but some rumbling persists.

23-06-2019:

Report of failure of DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG in Skoda Fabia Estate 1.0TSI 110 SEL DSG at 4 months old and 2,500 miles. Transmission failed to shift up correctly, typically going from 1st to 6th. Went into dealer of 31-5-2019. Repaired by 3-7-2019. Fault codes were "P0B0C00" and "P0C2A00": Auxiliary fluid pump motor stalled. Mechatronics replaced. Total itemised bill £1,520.25 with no VAT because repair carried out FoC under warranty.

14-08-2019:

Report of turbo occasionally not working on 2016 Skoda Fabia 1.2TSI estate despite being driven at 60-70mph. Both times the EPC warning light was on, yet the car did not enter limp home mode. Actuator already changed by helpful Skoda dealer. Suspect sticking impeller due to bearing wear due to the bearing not getting enough oil because the oil feed and oil return pipes are blocked with carbon.

11-9-2019: Report of failure of turbo bearing of 2015/65 Skoda Fabia 1.2TSI at 20,015 miles, first shown by intermittant lack of power together with amber warning lights on the dash. Skoda have agreed a price of £440 to rectify the issue as a goodwill gesture. ( Usually petrol turbos fail because the driver habitually switches off the engine when the turbo is too hot. Petrol turbos are water cooled as well as cooled by engine oil flowing through the turbo bearings. But if the driver switches off the engine when the turbo is too hot (after driving on the motorway, after a long ascent, after towing or after ragging the car) the oil in the turbo bearing oil feed and oil return pipes carbonises to the extent it reduces the oil flow to the turbo bearing, compounding the problem and leading to failure of the bearing. So, when the turbo is replaced, these pipes also need to be replaced or the same will happen again, quite soon.) 5-1-2020: Report of failure of DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG in 2018 Skoda Fabia 1.2TSI 110 estate after 16,000 miles. 24-2-2020: Report of failure of clutch of 2017 Skoda Fabia at 5600 miles. 3-9-2021: Report of DSG gearbox failure on 2016 Fabia. Owner bought the car from a Skoda dealer under the manufacturer's approved used scheme. Car has 38,000 miles on the clock and the dealer has quoted £5500 for a replacement transmission. Neither the dealer or Skoda UK are willing to contribute towards the repair, despite the car having a full service history.

What does the Skoda Fabia (2015 – 2021) cost?