The Fabia Sport has a powerful and dynamic look that continues Skoda’s bold new design direction. Although instantly recognisable as a Skoda, the Fabia has a strong contemporary feel thanks to its smooth lines and striking external details. Pronounced wheel arches, combined with a dynamic profile, a deeper front spoiler, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler and diffuser and a dirty great chrome exhaust, while the black A and B pillars make the roof appear to float above car.
Thanks to the willing nature of the1.9TDi 105bhp diesel engine tested, the Fabia Estate delivers an engaging drive that can honestly be described as athletic. The set up of the suspension and chassis means that it handles in a sure-footed and tidy manner, confident and capable on cross-country roads as well as motorways. The engine line-up means there will be a powerplant to suit most motorists, but for versatility and economy, the diesels are best. Its performance figures suggest it's a bit of a slow coach off the line, but it certainly doesn't feel like it when sat behind the wheel. Like all diesels, the accelerative benefits really kick in when on the move.
The Fabia Sport has a slightly firmer suspension than its hatchback equivalent, which delivers good, body control and composure through tight corners or on the motorways, whether carrying passengers or fully loaded. The firm ride means poor road surfaces equate to a slightly jarring ride, however refinement is good and noise levels entering the cabin remain low and unobtrusive. The same can't be said of the engine however, whose tone penetrates the calm of the cabin when worked hard. Skoda has fitted an electro-hydraulic steering system, as opposed to a fully electric one, with the intention of giving high levels of feel and to save fuel when the car is travelling straight. Consequently, there are decent levels of feedback and the light nature of the steering makes for a car that's easy to manoeuvre when parking.
Inside, the solidly constructed and neatly styled cabin features soft-touch plastics and a raft of luxury kit. For instance, there’s climate and cruise control, plus a CD player with MP3 and auxiliary inputs. Meanwhile, front, side and curtain airbags boost safety, but stability control is an optional extra. Buyers can also rely on excellent visibility and a comfortable driving position. However, look behind the leather-wrapped steering wheel, and the speedo and rev counter are confusingly similar in appearance. Further, back, the rear seats are spacious, and there’s a roomy 300-litre boot, too.
Getting comfortable in the driver's seat poses no problem, with the height adjustable seat and reach and rake adjustable steering wheel helping matters. The seats are supportive and comfortable although the firm ride means occupants will be aware of the road surface below them. Both legroom and headroom have been increased throughout the cabin over the old model, with rear passengers benefiting from an extra 42mm of space above their heads.
All models come with four airbags as standard, twin front and side airbags, but only the top-trim car adds rear curtain airbags. The hatch has performed well in crash tests and there's no reason to assume the estate won't follow. Skoda has improved the Fabia's energy absorbing properties and deformation zones to give occupants greater protection in the event of an impact while pedestrian safety has also been addressed. Skoda is a manufacturer that has managed to get the mix between practicality and price just right. Powered by the torquey 1.9 diesel, the Skoda Fabia Estate is a hugely capable workhorse delivering a pleasant and predictable drive. Its size is big by class standards but not so much that it detracts from its versatility as a city car; as such, it should suit a wide variety of buyers and their respective needs.
