Skoda Fabia test drive since 2007 -

Urban Germanism

Yellow Fabia on 16-inch cast discs, according to Sport configuration, recalled the first generation of the model in the hot version of RS. The similarity, however, was limited to appearance.

 
Under the hood, the car was a 86-horsepower engine with a volume of 1.4 liters. Of course, its capabilities are enough for relatively dynamic movement in the city stream, but it is difficult to realize the full potential of a good chassis of a new machine with such a power unit. However, in relation to the usual Fabia, such reasoning is inappropriately confused by the sports designation of the configuration if you fall into place of the usual buyer of the class B, it will be obvious that the new Fabia is one of its most worthy representatives.
 
Skoda products feel great the influence of the German host Volkswagen. Inside, Fabia tries to look more serious than VW Passat. The front panel is exactly the same as on Roomster the embodiment of practicality and a pragmatic approach to design. There is no soul, but there is an idea maximum convenience and functionality. In Fabia, you forget that this is a bug from class B. Spacious and in front and, unusual, from behind. Planting on the front row is more direct in comparison with the first generation of the model, and therefore, there is enough space behind. It is unlikely that there is a Fabia classmate with a more spacious salon. The model became higher by 47 mm, the increase in length was 22 mm.
 
The luggage compartment with a volume of 300 liters for everyday city use is enough for the eyes, and if you need more space, you can fold the backs of the rear seats will turn out 1163 liters. In the trunk there is a removable compartment for storing things. It is also worth mentioning a double glove compartment in the central panel and spacious pockets in the doorway with large cup holders (a liter plastic bottle climbed). The handbrake is inconvenient to access it is very limited by the armrest. I liked the materials and the general quality of the cabin. In front, cozy chairs with very decent synthetic trim and severe side support. The three -spoke steering wheel is covered with leather with excellent frictional properties, has the correct section and shape like VW. The gearbox switching lever is also convenient, but the work of the mechanism itself seemed imperfect.
 
The external data of the second generation Fabia is an order of magnitude better than that of the first. And first of all, this concerns the proportions of the body. Even despite the increased height, the machine looks more proportionally. The face acquired a cheerful expression. Stylish elements of a flat roof and black windshield racks appeared black (it seems that it is borrowing from Mini and Suzuki Swift). Everything is in order with the stern, I especially liked the large headlights made in the new Skoda style. And the font of the name of the car on the fifth door is nice. The noise from the noise is excellent, the engine is almost inaudible, street noise too. Climate control works perfectly in the heat.
 
A small motor is not able to tell the car a dizzying acceleration, however, if it is constantly promoted and more actively working as a lever of the gearbox, you can go quite quickly. And at the same time enjoy a well -minded suspension. Fabia is harsh on the go, but it is nice to control it. True, you have to constantly monitor the quality of the roadway. It is better to go around the hatches, as the moves happen before the end, moreover, the shoes on beautiful discs are low -profile.
 
The steering control is working in the steering, which is difficult to make any complaints. The mechanism regularly generates the right force on the steering wheel depending on the conditions of movement. And with intense rotation, it does not shut up. And how does a small high car behave on the highway? The maximum speed of 175 km/h, of course, is achievable, but of course, the indicators are much lower in a comfortable movement. And I don’t want to rape a small engine that votes at high speeds. Meanwhile, both the suspension and steering manifest themselves very well at high speeds. The straight car holds tenaciously, and even if the canvas is not perfect quality, the driver, thanks to a heavy steering wheel with a clear zero, is confidently leading. Conducts Fabia with behavior and emergency braking. In general, the brakes work excellent, as well as on most other models of the Volkswagen concern.
 
New Fabia lady, pleasant in every way. Excellent quality, thoughtful ergonomics and layout of the salon space, which provide an unprecedented one by the standards of the class, as well as good running properties. Perhaps in its segment today Fabia is the most adult car. And this picture will be preserved until the moment when the new VW Polo generation is released.

 
Prices and configuration

The machine is available in four Classic trim levels (1.2 and 1.4 liters), Ambiente (1.2, 1.4, 1.6 l), Sport (1.4 l) and Elegance (1.6 l). All versions with a 1.6 liter engine can be equipped with automatic transmission. The new Fabia is supplied only in the form of a five -door hatchback. Classic has 14-inch steel disks, steering wheel power power, audio forces with 4 speakers, a pillow for the driver. Price $ 12,990 (1.2 l) and $ 13,990 (1.4 l). For a surcharge, you can get ABS, seat belt sensor, air conditioning. Ambiente includes ABS, a second airbag, front windows and tire pressure sensor. For the version with an automaton, the standard package includes rear disc brakes and ESP. Ambiente with manual transmission and 1.2 liter engine costs $ 14,390, with a motor of 1.4 liters $ 15,390, with a 1.6 l $ 16 690 engine. $ 18,690 is estimated with an automaton. SPORT equipment in the database has alloy wheels R15 , air conditioning, four glass windows, CD resaver, fog lights. The price is $ 17 390. The Elegance version is similar to Sport in options, but it differs in color scheme and interior design. The price with a 1.6 liter engine and manual transmission from $ 18,690, with an automatic machine from $ 20,690.
 
Nikolai Ilyin
 
 
 
 
 

 
 

Source: Motor magazine [July 2007]