Skoda's favorite city vehicle: the new Skoda Fabia

The "Color Concept" customization program (previously available on the previous version) is being updated in terms of distinction. It enables Fabia's body to be contrasted with components painted in black. In this scenario, the rims, roof, windshield pillars, mirrors, and rear windows are all damaged (dark tinted in this case).

LED headlights are standard equipment (depending on the version chosen, it is even possible to have Full LED technology). LED is also a consideration for the rear lights, divided into two different sections to increase the vehicle visually. The Skoda Fabia fourth-generation boasts the best Cx in the class, at 0.28. An authentic tour de force is achieved by using features such as the active shutter in the grille (Skoda claims a gain of 0.3 L per 100 km! ), aerodynamic hubcaps, and even contoured rocker panels.

However, the new Skoda Fabia's revolution is taking place inside. The previous version had an outdated interior with an extensive design; however, this is no longer the case nowadays. The design is undeniably lighter, and it borrows from the brand's most recent offerings, beginning with the two-spoke steering wheel. In addition, the grille influences the dashboard's design, and it houses the infotainment system's screen in the center.

Skoda has chosen uniformly stiff materials (leaving foamed plastic to the VW Polo), these typically appear nicely, and the components are tidy. Furthermore, the inclusion of a cotton headband warms the ambiance slightly. Finally, the presentation quality represents an unprecedented step upscale, and the automobile no longer needs to be embarrassed in front of its competitors, even the most experienced. A faithful Skoda Octavia in the making! Finally, the new Fabia's ergonomics are excellent, with a touch screen that fits nicely in hand (and beneath the eye) and conventional but adequate controls (read: non-touch), particularly for air conditioning and steering wheel buttons. The restyled VW Polo had best keep an eye on this one!

The new Skoda Fabia is well-connected as a decent modern city vehicle. The center touch screen is typical in any edition, and it ranges in size from 6 to 9.2 inches. The UI is sleek and contemporary, and the user experience is among the finest in the sector. The Czech city vehicle (also) gives way to the sirens of digital instruments, thanks to the 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit system, which comes standard on the high-end Style trim. The Smartlink Plus system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, is provided automatically on all Fabias, as are linked services, via an eSIM.

Based on a new basis (it finally shares the same platform as the VW Polo and Seat Ibiza), the Fabia gains 11.1 cm in length, nearly entirely favoring the wheelbase. It is presently the largest of the city's inhabitants, measuring 4.11 m. Its interior proportions are significantly similar to those of cars in the higher category (+ 5 cm at the back in particular), with plenty of room for rear passengers and a trunk capacity of 380 liters. It's also worth noting that the back passengers have ventilators and even armrests.

The diesel option, like many city cars, has been withdrawn. The car also lacks any hybridization (however slight): it is a brave option, but its cousins in the group (particularly the restyled Polo) have done so as well. There are four engine options: 1.0 MPI 65 hp, 1.0 MPI 80 hp, 1.0 TSI 95 hp, and 1.0 TSI 110 hp. The latter has a 6-speed mechanical gearbox (BVM5 for other engines) and the optional DSG7 double-clutch transmission.

The new Skoda Fabia confirms its standing as a well-bred vehicle on the road. It was quite well suspended and was comfortable during the test, even on the occasionally bumpy roads. Overall, the degree of filtration of defects appeared to me to be comparable to that provided by its larger sister Scala: that is saying a lot! The new Fabia is well situated on the road and delivers comforting and enjoyable handling, even if it lacks the fun flair of, say, a Ford Fiesta. The flaw is mainly with a flexible direction that works well at modest speeds but lacks sensation when the pace is increased.