Test drive Skoda Fabia Combi 1.2 TSI: Little charm
Test Drive

Test drive Skoda Fabia Combi 1.2 TSI: Little charm

Test drive Skoda Fabia Combi 1.2 TSI: Little charm

What the Czechs have done to continue the success of the first two editions

Unlike the middle class, where the bulk of sales of models such as the Passat are station wagons, the supply of such bodies in small cars is rather modest. One of the few manufacturers that remains loyal to them is Skoda. The Czechs recently introduced the third generation of their Skoda Fabia Combi. We can predict with a high degree of certainty what the first comparative test with the new model will look like. For now, the only people from Renault (with the Clio Grandtour) and Seat (with the Ibiza ST) are offering their smaller models in higher payload variants.

Plenty of space for passengers and luggage

The third generation of the Skoda Fabia Combi 1.2 TSI shows how practical a small car of this type can be. Although the Czech station wagon is only one centimeter longer than its predecessor, the space for passengers and luggage has become noticeably larger - with a 530-liter trunk, the Skoda Fabia can fit more than some of its compact brothers. When the rear seat is folded down, a 1,55 meter long, 1395 liter cargo space is created with a virtually flat floor. However, to do this, you must first lift the buttocks before folding the backs. Other means of increasing flexibility, such as sliding rear seats, are not available here. However, there is a large back cover that slides down through which heavy and bulky luggage can be easily loaded. Skoda has never had enough space to store and store small things, and the way it is now - all sorts of little things are hidden under the double trunk floor and do not bother anyone. Bag hooks, a movable baffle and three different meshes are used to secure larger items securely. Passengers love the comfortable upholstered seats, body shape, ample head and front legroom, and large pockets in all four doors. It's true that the dashboard is made of hard plastic, but that's somewhat in line with the practical wagon spirit. Not forgotten are some familiar ones from previous models, but good ideas, such as an ice scraper in the tank door and a small trash can in the right front door. And in the driver's license there is a special box for a reflective vest.

Sports settings

Even before we got behind the wheel of the new Škoda Fabia Combi 1.2 TSI, we were determined to drive more sportily than our tall predecessor would allow – we just expected the nine centimeters increase in width to affect road behavior. Indeed, the Skoda Fabia Combi rides briskly on winding roads, handles corners neutrally, and the upgraded electromechanical power steering provides good road contact information. Despite the rich equipment, the model has become 61 kg lighter (depending on the version), as well as a voracious, evenly running 1,2-liter TSI engine with 110 hp. does not meet any difficulties and awakens a sporty mood in the driver.

And the best thing is that the newly acquired dynamics does not pay off with unpleasant suspension stiffness. Indeed, the basic settings are rather tight than loose, so the Skoda Fabia Combi 1.2 TSI never tilts dangerously to the side in fast corners. However, the responsive dampers (throttle on the rear axle) neutralize both short bumps and long waves on the tarmac. Comfortable seats, quiet, stress-free travel in the right direction and low noise levels contribute to an overall feeling of comfort.

Price issue

In addition to the top TSI engine (110 hp, 75 liter diesel unit in two power options - 1.2 and 90 hp. The second is somewhat damaged - while 1,4 TSI (90 hp) is optionally available with a six-speed manual transmission or a 105-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), the 1.2 hp diesel is currently only available with a five-speed transmission (a weaker diesel version can be combined with DSG).

The price ladder starts from 20 580 BGN. (1.0 MPI, active level), i.e. station wagon for 1300 levs More expensive than a hatchback. The version we are testing with a powerful 1.2 TSI and a medium level of Ambition equipment (air conditioning, electric front windows and mirrors, cruise control, etc.) costs 24 390 BGN. Since Skoda offers a large number of high-end model extras such as a panoramic glass roof, front and rear parking assistance, keyless entry and ignition, Mirrorlink system for connecting to mobile phones, alloy wheels, etc.), the price of the model can easily be raise above the threshold of 30 leva. But this also applies to other small cars, which, however, have neither practical advantages nor the inspiring behavior of the Skoda Fabia Combi.

CONCLUSION

The new Skoda Fabia Combi 1.2 TSI with its style, practicality and almost sporty handling became a good hit for Skoda, and the affordable price and a good balance between cost and benefit doom the model to success. The savings on some materials are offset by good workmanship.

Text: Vladimir Abazov

Photo: Ahim Hartmann

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