Volkswagen’s Czech-based Skoda brand has revealed the fourth generation of its Fabia B-segment hatchback. Though distinctive on the outside, the Fabia has always been Polo based and the latest version is no exception as it graduates to the Volkswagen Group’s modular MQB-AO platform.
This modular architecture has allowed the Fabia to grow considerably in size. The hatchback now measures 4108mm in length, making it 55mm longer than the Polo, while the boot capacity grows by 50 litres to 380 litres. All of this adds up to the largest cabin and boot in the segment, Skoda claims.
The cockpit is dominated by a large central display, measuring up to 23.3cm depending on the model, and Fabia buyers can also opt for a fully digital instrument cluster for the first time. Functionality is enhanced by gesture control and a digital voice assistant that they call Laura.
Customers can choose from five petrol engines from the modern ‘Evo’ family. These comprise a normally aspirated 1-litre unit with 48kW or 59kW, a 1.0 TSI turbo offered in 70kW and 81kW guises and a 1.5 TSI that pushes 110kW. Manual transmission is still the norm in this range but the two top variants are available with VW’s seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox.
Available driver assist technologies come in the form of Active Cruise Control, Lane Assist and Predictive Pedestrian and Cyclist Protection, among others.
“The Fabia has been an integral part of our portfolio for over 20 years and embodies the core values of our brand like no other model,” said Skoda Auto CEO Thomas Schäfer, who until recently headed up VWSA.
“The latest generation has everything it takes to seamlessly build on the success of its predecessors. It offers more space than its competitors, perfect connectivity, advanced assistance systems and an emotive design – in other words, all you need, and a little more,” Schäfer added.
The Skoda brand has always been centred around value, but it has never been offered in South Africa.
Would you like to see Skodas on local roads?