Skoda Fabia vRS (2003 - 2007) 1.9 TDI PD (130bhp) 5d (2004/54) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
That I know more about the car than just the badge. That I'm a shrewd purchaser and don't care what others might think.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
My mum tells me it's more comfortable in the back than their Mk4 Golf. Recently put a friend on the insurance; he was very impressed.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes - my experience with this car over 7.5 years and 120,000 miles so far has been overwhelmingly positive.
What are you likely to buy next?
Golf, Octavia.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
October 2004
Did you get a good deal and why?
I got a reasonable discount.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Performance, economy, reliability, understated looks.
What was the dealer like?
Quite helpful and friendly.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Excellent mid-range torque and performance; ride quality OK for a sporty model, handles and grips pretty well (although does vary considerably depending on tyre choice). Meaty feel to steering. Slick gearchange. Front screen pillars surprisingly wide and can obscure an entire car at roundabouts.
What's it like to park?
Easy enough, electric mirrors help with seeing exactly how close to the kerb you are.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
A few problems when new - first gear difficult to engage, faulty brake switch giving a variety of issues (all solved the first business day after collection). Beyond that one electric window motor failed and the dealer replaced both under warranty. The suspension is clonky and despite replacement of all the bushes this continues to be an issue. Failure of A/C condenser (at over 100,000 miles) possibly my own fault for not using the A/C enough.
What's most practical about your car?
Overall reliability.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Too many to select just one. Trip computer, sunroof, leather steering wheel and gear lever, remote C/L.
