Skoda Fabia Hatchback (2000 - 2007) 1.4 Comfort 5d (AC) (2000/X) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I'm responsible, and sensible. And that I prefer quality over badge snobbery.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it, my family find it comfortable and quiet, my friends tell me I've finally grown up while my neighbours look on in envy.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, but with a 16 valve engine. It's a quality package at an unbeatble price (especially new). It's a pleasure to drive and a comfortable place to spend many hours in.

What are you likely to buy next?

Ask me in 4 years...

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,995

When did you buy the car?

October 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

I paid top book... not a good deal some might say, however, the milage was only 18,500 (verified). The dealer installed new breaks and tyres, the car was MOT'd & Serviced and came with a voucher for it's next MOT and Service (both free). So I feel that I got a good deal...

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

VW Group Quality and Reliability

What was the dealer like?

Very very good... some of you out there might know them ... Hutchings ... of Tonypandy South Wales. With over 100 years in the business and a good reputation with local mechanics, a decent warranty and curtious sales staff.

What's it like to drive?

You wouldn't call it sporting, well I suppose you wouldn't be looking at a this kind of car if you wanted a spirited drive, however, the chassie is capable and grips well, when revved the engine is more than capable of keeping up with others on the road, the only area that it lets itself down on is up hill, it could do with a bit more torque to heave the heavy bodyshell up a steep hill, don't get me wrong it'll do it, just don't expect to be breaking any speed limits while doing it.

What's it like to park?

The over light steering is in it's element here, very precise and easy to park, the only black spot it the rather high rear sill which restricts your view and makes judging distances to parked vehicles awkward. You'll get used to it but it's a bit disconcerting at first.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes... 3 days after collecting the car, I noted the Coolant level needed topping up (fault reported) Engine would occasionally start only to splutter to a stop again (fault reported) Engine Temp Gague Erratic at best (fault reported) The car was booked in to get the above faults sorted when on the day it was due to go in the Passenger footwell was full of water. So needless to say I had major concernes ... The dealer assured me the faults would be repaired and gave me a brand new courtesy car. One week later All the faults were rectified... 1) Coolant problem traced to a slack pipe at rear of engine 2) Engine start problem and Temp Gague were down to a faulty thermostat .. also they slackened off the tappets and sent the car to the main skoda dealer to get the engine remapped.

What's most practical about your car?

Good size boot for class of car.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The air con ... a godsend in the mornings de-mists the car in a flash, then theres the buillt in fridge, yes the glove box doubles as a fridge, really is capable of keeping cold drinks cold.