## Skoda Fabia 130 Review: A Warm hatch with a Family Rival
News editor Jamie Edkins has been driving the new Skoda Fabia 130. It’s the closest thing to a fabia vRS we’ve seen in years, but it has one deadly rival from within its own family.
I love a fast Skoda. For over 17 years my parents have had an Octavia vRS, and I owned a Mk1 Octavia vRS as well. I’ve always been drawn to their understated appearance and performance, but one car has been missing from Skoda’s lineup for over a decade.
That would be the Fabia vRS. I’d love to say that this small hot hatch had made a comeback,but that would only be half true. To celebrate the brand’s 130th birthday, Skoda has made the new Fabia 130.
It’s a warmed-up version of the current Fabia which uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 177hp. I flew out to Spain to experience the new Fabia 130 on the twisting country roads around Valencia. I went in with high hopes, excited to be driving a new hot Fabia, but I came away feeling a bit conflicted.
## Skoda Fabia 130: engine and performance
Let’s start with the numbers. Under the bonnet is a tuned version of VW Group’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine. It’s the same basic lump you’ll find in cars like the Skoda Octavia, SEAT Leon and the Audi A3, but it has some upgraded parts to make more power.
Whereas this engine usually makes 150hp, in the Fabia 130 it is putting out 177hp and 250Nm of torque. This goes to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, and 0-62mph takes 7.4 seconds. That’s over half a second quicker than the next fastest Fabia.## Driving the Skoda Fabia 130: is it a proper hot hatch?
In short, sort of. I’d classify the Fabia 130 as a “warm hatch” – a segment which I love but has been dead for a couple of years since the Suzuki Swift Sport and Volkswagen Up GTI disappeared from showrooms.
It’s not quite powerful or fast enough to count as a full-fat hot hatchback, but it’s more than swift enough to put a smile on your face. The dual-clutch gearbox has been tuned in this car to make it feel more responsive, and it always feels eager when you plant your right foot.
As good as it is, I’d prefer a manual gearbox in a car like this. I think it would suit the car’s character better, and also adding a layer of involvement which makes it more entertaining to drive.
Skoda Fabia 130 vs. Volkswagen Polo GTI: Which Hot Hatch Reigns Supreme?
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The skoda Fabia 130 promises a fun and affordable entry into the world of hot hatches.Though, after a recent test drive and a comparison with its close cousin, the Volkswagen Polo GTI, the choice isn’t as straightforward as it truly seems. While the Fabia 130 is a commendable car,a closer look at price and performance reveals the Polo GTI offers a more compelling package for a relatively small premium.
Skoda Fabia 130: A Promising Performer
Skoda has been steadily improving its performance models, and the Fabia 130 represents a significant step forward. The car delivers an enjoyable driving experience, offering a good balance of agility and comfort.However, the real question is how it stacks up against the competition, notably when considering the price.
Currently, the Skoda Fabia 130 starts at £29,995. PCP finance is available from £318 per month over four years with a £5,399 deposit, subject to a 10,000-mile-per-year limit. https://www.skoda.co.uk/models/fabia/estate/fabia-estate-130-tsi
The Volkswagen Polo GTI: A Step Up in Performance and Refinement
When compared directly to the Volkswagen Polo GTI, the Fabia 130’s value proposition becomes less clear. The Polo GTI, starting at £31,415, represents a £1,420 increase in price. https://www.volkswagen.co.uk/models/polo/gti
Financing options for the Polo GTI are comparable, with PCP deals available around £350 per month with similar deposit and mileage terms. This means the Polo GTI costs approximately £30 more per month than the Fabia 130.
However, that extra cost unlocks a noticeably more refined and engaging driving experience. The Polo GTI boasts a more powerful 2.0-litre engine, delivering quicker acceleration and a more characterful exhaust note. Furthermore, the interior of the Polo GTI offers a higher level of quality and sophistication compared to the Fabia.
The Verdict: Polo GTI Takes the Crown
While the Skoda Fabia 130 is a genuinely good car, the Volkswagen Polo GTI emerges as the superior choice for those willing to spend a little more. The marginal increase in price delivers a significant uplift in performance, engine character, and interior quality.
As the author concludes, “When presented with that ultimatum, I can only draw one conclusion… my money would have to go on the Polo GTI instead.” The Fabia 130 is a strong contender, but the Polo GTI ultimately offers a more complete and satisfying hot hatch experience.
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