New Skoda Fabia sketch revealed

Skoda has revealed a sketch of the all-new Fabia, officially unveiling the direction of the hatchback’s reworked design for the first time.

Borrowing heavily from the styling accents already seen on the new Octavia, the third generation of Fabia will benefit from the sharply styled panels, shorter overhangs and better shoulder line definition that has become a hallmark of the VW Group’s current output.

Still just under four metres in length, the car retains its sub-compact credentials but has swollen 90mm in width to apparently incorporate new axles at the front and back.

Although few genuine risks have been taken with the model’s crisp new appearance, a 30mm drop in height should mean the Fabia exudes at least a smidgen more athleticism than the upright model it replaces.

A more dynamic theme ought to continue underneath where Skoda is believed to have used elements of Volkswagen’s latest modular platform tech to underpin a new engine line-up, comprising two petrol units and the latest all-aluminium, 1.4-litre three-cylinder diesel unit for some international markets.

Furthermore, it’s anticipated that customer demand will see Skoda offer the mid-specification 88bhp version with a seven-speed DSG — the first time an automatic transmission has been offered in an oil-burning Fabia

Also new to the range will be the entry-level 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol motor, in both 59bhp and 74bhp versions in some international markets.