Skoda Fabia Saloon (2001-2005) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 37 - 57 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Engines are economical, depreciation is acceptable (even on the saloon) and insurance is reasonable. Service intervals are good, too – this is a financially sensible purchase.

Fabia performs very well on the eco front. With an average of 158 g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are relatively low for a super mini saloon. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.9-litre diesel, which is one of the greenest models in the range. The range is impressively frugal, averaging 45 mpg.

The earliest Fabias had some reliability problems but these were resolved within the first couple of years -should now provide a high level of dependability. As ever, make sure you keep up the servicing.