Skoda Fabia vRS (2003 - 2007) 1.9 TDI PD (130bhp) 5d (2006/06) Owner Review
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Nothing. Skodas don't have much of an image, but there's still plenty of people who regard them as inferior (usually BMW drivers who can't handle being overtaken!).
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Nice car... Oh, it's a Skoda though! Been the butt of a few Skoda jokes from wannabe comedians.
Would you buy this car again and why?
No. Novelty wore off very quickly and it was a tiresome car to own. Build quality not as good as many other cars, paint chipped very easily on front end, and fuel economy never came close to official (or on-board computer) figures. Kept it for the shortest period of time I've ever had a car (9 months) and don't miss it.
What are you likely to buy next?
Sold the VRS privately and bought a Mondeo TDCi. Not quite as quick, but handles far better, much better built, better economy, more toys and a much more refined and comfortable drive.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£10,750
When did you buy the car?
July 2007
Did you get a good deal and why?
Got a fair deal for a 14 month old, 4k miles immaculate VRS. It was by far the best condition one I'd seen, as many others very looking quite tired - even at 2 years old and average miles!
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Borrowed one of my company's pool cars for a few days, liked it, so bought one myself.
What was the dealer like?
Very pleasant and not pushy.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
A bit of a novelty at first with good mid-range torque for overtakes, but it soon wears-off. Handling is soggy at the front due to the heavy engine and skittery at the back. Agricultural cruise control. Not the smoothest ride on long journeys.
What's it like to park?
Easy.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
In the 9 months I kept the car, the aerial base plate required replacement due to deteriorating reception and the front n/s wheel bearing failed. Both done under warranty. Build quality is reasonable, but it wasn't the very good quality that I was led to expect from a VAG car!
What's most practical about your car?
Quite nippy performance for overtakes. Least practical aspect was the very light cheap fabric interior which required care to keep it looking good.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The usual... electric windows, central locking, stereo.
