NEW ŠKODA FABIA ESTATE

Škoda is set to unveil the new Fabia Estate in February 2008.

The latest edition to the Czech firm’s line-up is larger in every respect than its predecessor. Škoda’s new load-lugger is 7mm longer and 46mm higher than the model it replaces. Its enhanced dimensions (4,239mm long, 1,642mm wide and 1,498mm tall) not only give the car a more imposing road stance, but also allow for a far larger interior.

Boot capacity has grown by an impressive 54 litres (up to 480 litres). With the rear seats folded flat a total of 1,460 litres stowage space is offered (235 litres more than before). This impressive figure is not only class-leading in its own segment, but even gives similar models from the class above food for thought.

Buyers will have the choice of six engines altogether (three petrol and three diesel). The range starts with the 1.2 12V HTP (70bhp). The 1.4 16V (85bhp) and 1.6 16V (105bhp) are also offered. The diesel line-up consists of the 1.4 TDI PD (70bhp), 1.4 TDI PD (80bhp) and 1.9 TDI PD (105bhp). All of the powerplants are mated to a five-speed manual transmission, but the 1.6 16V version is also available with a six-speed auto (Tiptronic) as an option. Trim designators, as with the Fabia hatchback, will be simply 1, 2 and 3.

Besides its fresh new ‘Škoda family’ design, the latest Fabia Estate also offers a number of clever features deigned to enhance convenience and make the lives of passengers and drivers more comfortable. Key strengths include the impressive boot capacity, the roomy passenger space, an abundance of storage trays, hooks and cubby holes to keep possessions secure and a boot roller cover with automatic quick release - with one touch the cover is retracted making loading and unloading quick and easy.