New Skoda Fabia breaks cover

The new Skoda Fabia has been revealed ahead of its global debut at the Paris motor show 2014 at the beginning of October. It replaces the current model that has been around in international markets for seven years. Skoda also offered the Fabia hatch in India but discontinued it in 2013, owing to falling demand.

The new Fabia remains under four metres long but is 30mm lower in height and a significant 90mm wider than the outgoing model. This will not only improve cabin space but should also give the car a more planted and contemporary look. Boot space is expected to be about 330 litres.

Jozef Kaban, Skoda’s chief designer, says the new model marks a decisive shift in the brand’s design language. “In recent years, Skoda has made a name for itself by producing cars with great functionality and above-average interior space,” he said. “We sense now is the right time to create a stronger connection between the functionality of our cars and an expressive and emotional design.” Kaban also said Skoda had focused on creating a sportier vehicle and making the design crisper. “The result,” he said, “is a young, fresh and modern compact car that sets new standards in its segment.”

It is understood that the Fabia is based on the latest version of the Volkswagen Group’s PQ26 platform, first used on this year’s revamped VW Polo. The newly re-engineered platform has been modified to accept the VW Group’s latest range of engines and transmissions as well as the most up-to-date safety and infotainment kit. Improvements in structural rigidity should also ensure improved handling and safety.

There will be a brace of engines for international markets, starting with the 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit used in the Volkswagen Up and the Skoda Citigo. Above that is a series of 1.2 turbocharged four-cylinders thought to develop between 89bhp and 109bhp, depending on the state of tune. DSG dual-clutch automatic transmissions are expected to be an option on the four-cylinder models.

The entry-level 1.0-litre model should offer impressive efficiency thanks to a dry weight of around 980kg.

It is understood there will be no high-performance Fabia vRS in the third-gen line-up. Instead, a Monte Carlo version of most models will be offered, with a choice of roof colour and matching door mirrors and wheel rims. Currently, Skoda has no plans to bring the new Fabia to India.