New-gen 2021 Skoda Fabia unveiled, with up to 150PS power
The all-new fourth generation Skoda Fabia has premiered internationally a little over two decades after the first-gen Fabia (designed by Dirk van Braeckel) came out. Unlike the third-gen Fabia from 2014, the new Fabia is based on the VW Group's modular MQB-A0 platform, and is larger as a result with Skoda claiming a class-leading 380-litres of boot space. Running through the highlights, styling is in line with new Skodas, and it also boasts of adjustable cooling shutters in the front bumper, helping the new Fabia to a class-leading 0.28Cd aerodynamic efficiency. All-new interiors see the addition of a 10.25-inch virtual cockpit, and dual zone climate control for the first time, while thoughtful Skoda touches like optimised storage and a folding front passenger seat continue the 'Simply Clever' tradition. Five engine options are available, from a 1.0 MPI, to the 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI, with up to 150PS power which should make for quite lively performance. Unfortunately, Skoda India has no immediate plans to bring the Fabia to India, but we could see that change after the launch of the Kushaq SUV and the new Rapid sedan.
The new Fabia, at 4,108mm long, and 1,780mm wide is 111mm longer and 48mm wider than the previous model, with a 94mm increase in wheelbase putting it at 2,564mm between the axles. Its 0.28Cd betters the 0.32Cd of the outgoing car, and actively adjustable cooling shutters in the front bumper that close at high speeds to increase its aerodynamic efficiency, also leading to marginal gains in fuel efficiency at constant highway speeds.
The new Fabia also features aero elements to decrease turbulence around the wheels and underbody, effectively smoothing out air flow over powertrain components. Speaking of, wheel choices range from 14- to 18-inches, including two more aero efficient designs.
The move to the new platform has helped increase interior space, which has been completely redesigned to take full advantage of it, including a slew of 'Simple Clever' touches like a folding front passenger seat, baggage hooks under the tailgate and more.
That class-leading 380-litres of cargo capacity can be increased to 1,190-litres. Aside from the 9.2-inch infotainment screen running the latest Skoda MIB3 generation UI and connected tech features, a 10.25-inch virtual cockpit fully-adjustable display is also available, for the first time. Also, up to nine air bags can be specced, aside from adaptive cruise control up to 210kmph, blind spot assist and park assist.
