New Skoda Fabia 1.4 TSI vRS Reviewed

The new Skoda Fabia 1.4 TSI vRS may be sporting an unfashionable badge, but its underlying abilities more than compensate for this lack of status. The latest incarnation of this memorable hot-hatch is a considerable departure from its predecessor. Gone is the 1.9-litre diesel engine in favour of the 180bhp petrol unit that propels the Fabia vRS to 60mph in 7.1 seconds.

We also have to wave goodbye to its predecessor's six-speed manual transmission and welcome the new seven-speed DSG automatic. Now, this is the only gearbox available and fortunately it is responsive and versatile.

It allows the driver either to cruise effortlessly in full automatic, or dance up and down the cogs via race inspired paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel.

The Skoda Fabia 1.4 TSI vRS is sporty and engaging to drive, yet manages to be comfortable enough for those occasions when you simply want to get from A to B. This is partly due to the versatile suspension that is firm enough to control body roll yet sufficiently supple to iron out the worst of the bumps. The vRS is also fitted with the XDS system that, during cornering, can brake the inner wheel and transfer power to the outer. This reduces under-steer and improves the overall driving experience.

Further Fabia plus points include its enviable build quality, stylish good looks, ability to average 45.6mpg, and the generous specification that includes 17” alloy wheels, LED running lights, and an eight speaker audio system. The Fabia was also awarded four Euro NCAP safety stars which is reasonable, but rivals such as the Citroen DS3 earned the maximum five stars.

The new Skoda Fabia 1.4 TSI vRS has a list price of £15,700, but the range as a whole is listed in Motoring.co.uk's new car database from only £8,039.

By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

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