Skoda Fabia (2015): first sketch and details

By James Clark

First Official Pictures

17 July 2014 13:46

Skoda has fired the starting pistol on its new Fabia supermini’s launch, and the big news is that this car will blood the platform for the next-generation VW Polo, Audi A1 and Seat Ibiza. The Fabia will also use the latest group three- and four-cylinder engines and boast an all-new interior, which is ripe for personalisation, Mini-style.

Nope: the sketch shows Skoda won’t be taking any chances with its new Fabia. The upturned moustache-grille and bulging bonnet are familiar from today’s range, while the rising rear glasshouse and pronounced door crease are lifted from this year’s Vision C coupe concept. Skoda Motorsport supposedly also provided inspiration: they’re sure to have had plenty of access as they prepare the Fabia for rallying.

Skoda says the new Fabia is 90mm wider and 30mm lower, proportions which should make it look sleeker than today’s dumpy five-door. We believe the wheelbase grows slightly to 2500mm, freeing up more cabin space.

The Fabia and its supermini siblings tap into Volkswagen’s transverse engine, front-wheel drive, MQB platform, which started life under the latest Golf. All new Skodas from Fabia to Superb will use this standardised, interchangeable set of parts, which also brings an upgraded electronic platform for more gadgets, as well as reducing weight.

Naturally the Fabia will rifle through the group’s engine bay. Expect the facelifted Polo’s new 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol to replace the old petrol 1.2, with performance and economy benefits. At the other end of the spectrum, there’s a 189bhp, twin-charged 1.4-litre ready and waiting for the go-faster, vRS version.

The new Fabia is set to make its official debut at the Paris motor show in October, ahead of it going on sale early next year. Expect prices to rise a little over the existing car’s £9945 starting price.

By James Clark