SecondHandSense:IT IS often easy to overlook just how small some small cars actually are. Designers are clever about stretching and squeezing the maximum from what they have, but there is, ultimately, only so much they can do.
In the case of the Skoda Fabia, they have done a better job than many – you never really experience the opressive small-car feeling. It is small but spacious, practical, good value and a pleasant drive. With good economy and impressive reliability, you have a decent package.
The Fabia makes a good city car and is probably at its best with the smallest engine – 1.2 petrol with 55 horse power. There are bigger, including the ridiculous 1.9 TDi VW Group turbodiesel. If you want a bigger engine, get a bigger car. If you accept the Fabia for what it is, the small engine is all you need.
It has good looks – looks that have vastly improved since its launch some nine years ago. Ride and handling are good – a lot better with small engines that don’t skew the weight and the overall feel and the 1.2 will do everything you want, except long journeys. In the case of the Fabia, there is a 1.4 diesel option but it is unremittingly loud and Skoda’s competitors offer far more diesel refinement.
The interior is well finished. Swathes of cheap plastic have been broken up into attractive panels, with a smart dashboard. Rear visibility is a little restricted by rear pillars but otherwise it is a grand car around town.
The hatchback version is the nicer and smarter. There is a decent boot and access is easy. Seats are comfortable and head and legroom acceptable. Standard equipment includes multiple airbags, ABS, power steering and brake force control.
The Fabia has a four-star crash rating – testers said there was a risk of injury to the driver and front passenger’s knees and femurs in a frontal impact. Reliability is good and only a small number have been recalled.
A 2006 car with 1.2 petrol engine and 45,000km is at one garage for €8,500, while a 2007 with just 12,000km is €9,250. Look for as new a car as you can – the difference is marked.
STAR RATING: 6/10