Photo: Skoda
The Skoda Fabia hasn't received any attention since undergoing its mid-life refresh. For the 2020 model year, the manufacturer has announced a couple of changes meant to bring some appeal to the range.
The first of two new packages is called Black Pack and consists of a black radiator grille, similar to the one on the Monte Carlo, tinted taillights, black mirror caps and two-tone alloy wheels in either the 15-inch Matone or the 16-inch Vigo design. Optionally, you can have a black roof too.
It feels like Skoda isn't giving the Fabia any attention here, as the photos they released don't actually show the Black Pack. Additionally, those sexy-looking wheels are a €930 18-inch option and shouldn't be part of the deal. And at the end of the day, if you want a sporty Fabia, why not just get the Monte Carlo?
Also new for 2020 is the Comfort Pack, which will be available on the Ambition and Style trims. It bundles Light Assist and Rain Assist, all-round parking sensors and heated seats. For the interior, a €170 Kessy option offers safer keyless access and start by shutting off the key after it hasn't moved for 15 minutes.
The thing that really bothers us about the Fabia is the lack of engines. Hatchback or wagon, special edition or one of four trim levels, you're down to only one choice, the 1.0 TSI with 95 HP and a 5-speed manual. Sure, it's cheap, but Skoda buyers always want choices. Where's the TDI or the DSG option?
Also, SEAT and VW equivalents are undeniably more interesting, offering modern digital dashboards, colorful interiors, and better phone connectivity. The Fabia has been slipping for sure, from one of the most popular superminis between 2004 and 2009 to something that's not really relevant. In 2017, we saw a Skoda face on the SEAT Ibiza, but that could have just been a mule for the Scala.
It feels like Skoda isn't giving the Fabia any attention here, as the photos they released don't actually show the Black Pack. Additionally, those sexy-looking wheels are a €930 18-inch option and shouldn't be part of the deal. And at the end of the day, if you want a sporty Fabia, why not just get the Monte Carlo?
Also new for 2020 is the Comfort Pack, which will be available on the Ambition and Style trims. It bundles Light Assist and Rain Assist, all-round parking sensors and heated seats. For the interior, a €170 Kessy option offers safer keyless access and start by shutting off the key after it hasn't moved for 15 minutes.
The thing that really bothers us about the Fabia is the lack of engines. Hatchback or wagon, special edition or one of four trim levels, you're down to only one choice, the 1.0 TSI with 95 HP and a 5-speed manual. Sure, it's cheap, but Skoda buyers always want choices. Where's the TDI or the DSG option?
Also, SEAT and VW equivalents are undeniably more interesting, offering modern digital dashboards, colorful interiors, and better phone connectivity. The Fabia has been slipping for sure, from one of the most popular superminis between 2004 and 2009 to something that's not really relevant. In 2017, we saw a Skoda face on the SEAT Ibiza, but that could have just been a mule for the Scala.
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