The original Skoda Fabia represented a turning point for Skoda as it was the first supermini from the VW subsidiary that couldn’t just take on desirable rivals – it could beat them at their own game. But while the Fabia Mk2 is both practical and comfortable, it’s never offered much to those who enjoy their driving. Used values can also be surprisingly high so make sure you’re not paying over the odds for a car that’s no class leader. The Fabia’s excellent reputation means some sellers are asking inflated prices for a car that’s still a great used buy, but not as far ahead of competitors as some think it is.

Key dates

5/07: The Fabia Mk2 debuts with 1.2, 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol engines, along with 1.4 or 1.9-litre turbodiesels.

1/08: The high-spec Sport arrives, alongside a five-door estate. 

4/08: The ultra-economical 1.4 TDI Greenline arrives.

7/08: The Fabia Scout pseudo off-roader appears. 

3/10: A facelifted Fabia arrives with more efficient engines, a revised nose plus S, SE and Elegance trim levels in place of the previous 1, 2 and 3 trims. 

5/11: The high-spec SE Plus brings climate control, privacy glass, powered rear windows plus a multi-function steering wheel.

Checklist

• Panel alignment isn’t always perfect, so if things don’t line up properly, don’t assume the car has been crashed.
• Squeaks and rattles can crop up, particularly from things like the dashboard rubbing against the windscreen surround and the pedals needing lubricating.
• Some engines come with a choice of low or high power outputs, so establish exactly what you’re getting.
• From 2009 there was no spare wheel fitted as standard, although it is possible to buy and fit one.
• The interior trim can be fragile as some of the plastics are cheap. Watch for trim coming apart and the electric window switches popping out of their sockets.
• Oil consumption can be an issue, especially on some of the more stressed (small capacity, high output) engines – up to as much as 1000 miles per litre.
• Many Fabia owners are disappointed with the standard headlights; swapping to Osram Nightbreaker or Phillips Xtreme bulbs is the preferred solution.

We like

• Reliability
• Spacious cabin
• Decent boot
• Strong engines

We don’t like

• High used values
• So-so dynamics
• Uninspiring cabin

Richard Dredge