Skoda Fabia Review
Published: 5th July 2004
Skoda Fabia
How It Drove - Ride/Handling
The Skoda Fabia's chassis has a long wheelbase and an extra-wide track in relation to its length which results in a comfortable ride combined with good road manners. The suspension geometry has been engineered to provide sharp steering response and the ride is very good even on uneven road surfaces. Every Fabia features ventilated front disc brakes with sliding calliper design and ABS (anti-lock braking system). EBD (electronic brake force distribution) is standard on TDI versions which adapts to shifting loads under normal braking, ensuring maximum braking force where it is most needed.
The steering is superbly weighted and is very direct giving the correct amount of feedback to the driver keeping you composed and in tune with the road. Power steering is standard throughout the Fabia range and is assisted by an electro-hydraulic system. It is also speed sensitive and provides greater assistance at lower speeds which is helpful when parking.
The fabia delivers a comfortable and stable ride, if pushed hard the car will become unsettled and will understeer which is only to be expected. Having said that the Fabia is not a sports car and under normal driving conditions the Fabia's ride and handling does not disappoint.
Ease of Use
The Fabia is a very easy car to drive and manoeuvre - visibility is excellent and parking is effortless. The cabin is ergonomically laid out with functional switchgear which is intuitive to operate.
The Fabia's long wheelbase results in extra leg room in both the front and rear. The Fabia also has a wider cabin than most of its rivals offering impressive head and shoulder room. The doors are large and open wide which make it a particularly easy car to get in and out of which would be ideal for people with mobility problems.
The hatchback version offers 260 litres of storage space with the rear seats in place and when the seats are folded flat this expands to an impressive 1016 litres. The seats also have a 60/40 asymmetric split and fold flat. The Fabia incorporates large door bins, a lit glove compartment with two cup holders moulded into the lid, seat back pockets, seat mounted storage pockets and lashing eyelets in the boot for securing larger loads.
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