Skoda, the completely owned subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, seems all set to introduce the third generation model of its globally appreciated hatchback Fabia in 2015. Interestingly, the model has been already revealed at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The base price of the upcoming model will be £10,600. In an interview with Autoexpress.co.uk, the Senior Exterior Designer of the model, Marko Jevtic was quoted as saying, “First of all, there is better packaging, the proportions are healthier. The previous model was too tall and looked a little heavy over the rear wheels. The new model has a much better balance.”
Reportedly, in the new generation model of Fabia hatchback, the auto maker has followed the design cues of original first generation model. The new model enjoy enjoys an addition of 90 mm to its width, resulting in more space at the interiors, while 30 mm cut has been made in its height. Speaking on the same, Jevtic said, “It [the new model] has the qualities of the first Fabia. We wanted its simplicity; we did not want to overload the design. The car is not fashion; people who buy it will want the car to look good in five years’ time, so we added a pinch of sharpness.”
However, industry experts have commented that the models of Skoda do not make much difference with the designs of its parent company Volkswagen. Answering this, he said, “We are trying to differentiate models but they are part of a family and every good family will have some common DNA, so we have common elements to the design.”
Making its debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, the new model from Skoda focuses over efficiency, practicality and style. The company officials believe that it will outrun the segment leading Ford Fiesta when it will be put to sale in the early 2015 in UK. The base variant will be named S trim level, containing Bluetooth, DAB, electric front windows and six airbags as standard. SE models will be priced from £12,760, featuring the addition of few advancements like front assist, air-con, alloy wheels, front parking sensors, the MirrorLink infotainment system and a leather wrapped steering wheel.
Top of the series will be Elegance variants, priced at £13,610. These versions will feature 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, automatic air-con, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control and keyless entry. Coming to their technical specifications, the S series will come equipped with an option of either 1-litre petrol engine or 1.4-litre TDI, while former churning out a maximum power of 59 bhp and 89 bhp by the latter.
The SE series will feature more technologically advanced 1-litre unit, pumping out 74 bhp. Interested buyers will be also given an option of 1.2-litre turbo engine, belting out 89 bhp or 109 bhp. 1.4-litre TDI engine option in this series will boost out 89 bhp. The Elegance line-up will come equipped with a 1.4-litre TDI engine, producing a maximum power of 104 bhp.
In order to pull in the interest of buyers, Skoda has, this time, introduced a Colour Concept system. This system will offer a whole new level of personalization to the buyers. According to company insiders, there is an option of 15 different body paints to choose, along with numerous wheel, roof and wing mirror options, which is expected to cater the diversified needs of buyers.
