Skoda Fabia Classic MPi
Maxabout Review
Most Robust & Solid Hatch In India
Monday, November 19, 2007Skoda's Fabia is a popular small car among buyers who are looking for good value for money. The car's durability and practicality are very appealing above more subjective attributes. It provides good levels of refinement and a decent ride for a car of this size. The car enjoys a loyal following due largely to its practicality, decent driving experience, and affordable price. It has managed to transformation from a modest hatch to something more versatile. The Fabia is a hatchback with much better access and versatility. Skoda Fabia was launched abroad in 2000 and went in for a facelift in 2005.
In India Fabia is available in 8 variants - 4 Diesel and 4 Petrol. The 1422cc Diesel engine generates maximum power of 68bhp at 4000rpm with maximum torque of 155nm in the range of 1600-2800rpm. The 1198cc Petrol engine generates maximum power of 70bhp at 5400rpm with maximum torque of 108nm at 3000rpm. Skoda India is also planning to launch a Fabia variantt in which they will plonk the 1900cc diesel engine.
As far as the overall design of the new Fabia goes, it is more of the same but improved and that says a lot because the outgoing Fabia was highly rated. The car benefits from more headroom and rear legroom. The width is still a bit cosy but the boot is larger and makes for a very user-friendly five-door hatchback. The space is reasonable and with storage areas and cubbyholes logically placed. Cars with air conditioning also receive cooled gloveboxes.
The car's foldable rear seats come in very handy, allowing larger items to be loaded with ease. The car's tailgate opens wide but due to the flat load lip loading and unloading can be a challenge. It is not a complex car, and the controls and dials reflect that simplicity. The essential instruments are all adequately represented on the car's fascia. The controls and displays are all large and easy to operate. The high-mounted stereo's controls are simple to use as well. The car's steering wheel adjusts for both reach and rake. The Fabia provides a very comfortable ride. The car's seats are supportive and comfortable, but larger passengers may not be as comfortable.
Cabin space is good for front seat passengers. Rear space is more limited but will accommodate smaller passeng ers or children very well. It handles well and provides good grip. It drives well both in town and at motorway speeds. The steering is light but offers enough feel on more challenging roads. It wouldn't be the most practical family car. Rear seating is limited, and may not easily accommodate a growing family. The boot is practically sized though and could easily store a stroller or family-sized shopping.
Dash layout is simple and the trim feels robust but it looks basic when compared to rivals, while the air con switches seem old fashioned and the steering wheel feels cheap. It does have a double glovebox and easy to read, attractively lit dials, though. Overall, Fabia is the most solid hatchback in India and it enjoys a loyal following due largely to its practicality, best quality interiors and decent driving experience.