Skoda Fabia (2007 – 2015) Review

Skoda Fabia (2007 – 2015) At A Glance

3/5

+Decently built and good value. Cheap to run. Greenline models are very economical with low CO2 emissions.

-Dull image. Smaller 1.2-litre petrol engine is lacklustre. Not exciting to drive.

Insurance Groups are between 3–15
On average it achieves 83% of the official MPG figure

Despite having been on sale since 2007 the Skoda Fabia is still a sensible used buy, thanks to a blend of value, practicality and a comfortable ride. It might be small in size but it’s cleverly packaged, making it a feasible choice as a family car – and one that is ideal for urban environments, thanks to low emissions, good fuel economy and easy parking.

That’s not to say it’s out of its depth on faster roads – Skoda offers a range of engines to suit all needs including a 105PS diesel and a 105PS 1.2-litre petrol, both of which are perfectly fine on motorways or twisting country lanes. Indeed the Fabia is a versatile car – it’s comfortable and easy to drive on most types of road.

The cabin is practical, with plenty of space in the back for adults, so children will be happy and because Skoda only offers the Fabia as a five-door, there’s no problem with rear seat access. The boot is usefully large and there’s a reasonable amount of technology on offer - buyers can get sat nav and Bluetooth as options. Unfortunately standard equipment isn’t brilliant and the cabin is starting to show its age, with a dated centre stack layout.

The 1.2-litre 105PS petrol engine is the pick of the range, offering the best blend of performance and running costs. There are cheaper petrol options with similar running costs, but they’re lacklustre in comparison and are best in urban-only use. The engine range also features four diesels ranging from a lethargic but economical 1.2-litre to a 105PS 1.6-litre that works well on the motorway.

It might be showing its age but the Fabia is still a good choice of small hatchback. All the ingredients are there – it’s decent to drive, cheap to run, practical and small enough to park. There are plenty of rivals that are just as good, though, so shopping around is important.

Real MPG average for a Skoda Fabia (2007 – 2015)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

83%

Real MPG

28–75 mpg

MPGs submitted

941

Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.

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Ask Honest John

When should I change timing belt/chain?

"Is there a recommended point for changing the timing chain on the Skoda Fabia 1.2 petrol engine 2013 or should it last for life?"
The timing chain is designed to last the life of the car. As long as the oil is changed every 12,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), I see no reason to change it unless it shows signs of damage or wear.
Answered by Dan Powell

Cam belt change on Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI - do I need to change the water pump?

"My daughter has just been quoted £500 by the main dealer for a timing belt change. When she asked if this included water pump, they told her that isn’t necessary as this is not driven by the timing belt. Is this correct? I I cant find any info online on this"
The dealer is correct. The water pump on this engine is located at the opposite end of the block to the cam belt and therefore does not require changing at the same time as the belt. The water pump does not have a change interval, either.
Answered by Dan Powell

Can you recommend the best car on a small budget?

"I have a very old, much loved Citroen Saxo that I’m looking to change. I only have £4k to spend but dislike tiny cars, what would you recommend please?"
Something like a Skoda Citigo might be a good bet - it's still a small car, but not as 'tiny' as your Saxo. If that's too small, check out the Skoda Fabia, Volkswagen Polo or Honda Jazz - all of which can be picked up for £4k.
Answered by Keith Moody

My car makes a terrible noise above 60mph - what could it be?

"I’ve bought a second hand Skoda Fabia and had it for less than a year. I’ve noticed recently that the noise in the car is very loud when it reaches 60mph and 70 mph. Below 60mph the sound is there but seems to be the highest at 60mph. The car is a 2008 Skoda Fabia 1.6 Automatic."
Out data shows a 2008 Fabia 1.6 auto as having a 6-speed Tiptronic auto (a torque converter, not a DSG) and this should not be troublesome. But from the symptoms you describe it reads as if it is not changing up from 5th to 6th and the reason for that could be a fault in the selector lever or a failed servo valve in the transmission valve box that controls the gear changes.
Answered by Honest John
More Questions

What does a Skoda Fabia (2007 – 2015) cost?