Skoda Fabia Combi in India

Skoda Fabia Combi Review

Skoda began its association with the Indian car market back in November 2001 when SkodaAuto India Pvt. Ltd. decided to set up a manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Aurangabad in the town of Shendra. This was a milestone not only for India but also for the car manufacturer as it was the first time SkodaAuto had a manufacturing facility out of Europe. SkodaAuto has not looked back since then in India and the brand has been one of the best selling cars in the Indian market.

Skoda continues to keep introducing new cars to Indian audiences almost every year and of not then they keep getting out updated versions of their present line-up. The updated versions of the Laura and Octavia are also soon to hit the Indian market. But apart from these the Czech car manufacturer is introducing a range of cars in India over the course of the next few quarters. SkodaAuto will be coming out with the Skoda Roomster, Skoda Fabia Combi and another Skoda small car. These are being introduced so that Skoda has a range of vehicles that will allow it to compete in most segments.

The Skoda Fabia Combi is being released for this purpose and sources at Skoda reveal that they are hoping that the Fabia Combi will compete in the multiple C and D segments. The Skoda Fabia is a longer version of the Fabia and offers more space and comfort than its little brother. The Skoda Fabia Combi is expected to be released in India in early 2011 with the option of both petrol and diesel engines and should be available for an estimated price of 10 lakhs.

The Skoda Fabia Combi 2011 promises to continue the trend of being very comfortable while also delivering great mileage and performance. The Fabia Combi will face some tough competition from the likes of the Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Optra SRV and Tata Indigo Marina.

Performance – Skoda Fabia Combi in India

The Skoda Fabia Combi when compared to its first generation model is bigger in all dimensions. It has a bigger boot with a volume of 480 liters which is an increase of 54 liters. Exteriors are also bigger with an increase in length width and height.

The Skoda Fabia Combi will be available to Indian buyers in the choice of four engines – two petrol and two diesel versions. The petrol version is expected to be a supercharged 8 valve 1.2 liter TSI, 4 cylinder engine that was first used on the Skoda Yeti, which is another one of Skoda’s recently launched vehicles. The 1.2 liter engine is available in two options as well, one delivering 63 kW of power and the other outing out 77 kW of power. These new TSI engines achieve a better fuel efficiency as well as lower carbon emissions. The TSI engines also ensure a better acceleration and improved top speed than the older atmospheric engines. Both the versions of the petrol engine are mated to a five-speed manual MQ 200 transmission but for the 1.2 liter with 77 kW engine there is a seven-speed automatic DSG transmission that is available as an option.

The Skoda Fabia Combi in India also comes with a range of diesel engines with a 1.2 liter version and two 1.6 liter types. The 1.2 liter engine is a turbo diesel CR with DPF and give an output of 55 kW with a maximum torque of 180 Nm. The 1.6 liter engine is also a turbocharged CR DPF and gives an output of either 55 kW, 66 kW or 77 kW. These diesel engines come with a solid particle filter to ensure reduced emissions and superior mileage.

The engines used in the newest cars introduced by Skoda are technologically advanced and incorporate some clever innovations like high-pressure direct fuel injection, four-valve technology and common-rail system.  This makes the engines smoother, quieter and more fuel efficient.

The transmission used on all the versions of the diesel is also the same precise five-speed manual which offers light, quick gear shifts. The automatic transmission though is all-new and is offered with the very powerful 1.2 liter TSI engine that puts out 77 Kw. This seven-speed automatic transmission with dual clutch DSG replaces the older six-speed Tiptronic system in all Skoda cars including the Yeti, Superb and Octavia models.

The Skoda Fabia Combi will also be available in an RS trim for those buyers looking to enjoy a sporty ride with the comfort and space of a bigger car. The Fabia Combi RS comes with an attractive sports kit that includes 17” original Gigaro wheels and an upgraded 1.4 liter, TSI, duel fuel injection engine that delivers 132 kW of power and is mated to the new seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. The Combi RS is perfect for those who love a quick ride and get from 0-100 in an amazing 7.6 seconds.

The Fabia Combi RS is distinguishable only through some unique badging and emblems. There are door sill protectors which have the RS emblem as well as a stylish chessboard-like design and are not only visually attractive but also serve a practical purpose. The RS also has dual exhaust pipes moulded into the rear bumper and also comes with an Amundsen navigation system.

Skoda Fabia Combi 2011 Styling

The Skoda Fabia Combi 2011 offers a much improved dynamic design on the outside and uses very innovative materials on the inside. It has a whole range of new and exciting colours and the dual 5 spoke light alloy wheels give it a very sporty look.

The front fascia of the Fabia Combi has an optical illusion where it looks expanded because of the horizontal lines in the newly designed bumper. The front end of the car is further accentuated by the new stylish front grille that incorporates the Skoda badge and the front bumper houses the lower air intake as well as the fog lamps. The headlights have also been given a facelift and now combines projector halogen lights. Road illumination has been improved by the optically reflective surface as both bulbs shine simultaneously along with the independent reflectors.

The smooth lines and curves of the front flow smoothly over the high roofline towards the back and gently drape over the liftback. The rear window is large and allows the driver a clear view as it is also fitted with a rear window wiper.

The interiors of the Skoda Fabia Combi in India are designed to give all passengers complete comfort and the upholstery is covered with lively fabric in a variety of colour combinations. The interiors have been designed ergonomically with buttons and knobs positions that make it easy for the driver to make changes while keeping his/her eyes on the road. The front cabin provides a spacious compartment for both passengers and the legroom and headroom is one of the best in its class.

The interiors are also improved aesthetically by the instrument panel which is brightly illuminated and displays the functions and information clearly to the driver. The rear cabin of the Skoda Fabia Combi is a very comfortable place and spacious enough to easily accommodate three passengers. The rear seats are foldable and increase storage space considerably.

The Skoda Fabia Combi also feature a host of essential safety features that ensure all passengers can enjoy a stress free ride and in case of an accident the up-to-date safety elements in the Skoda will respond effectively. The safety features include anti-lock brake system, ESP, front dual airbags, side curtain airbags, three point safety rear seat belts, parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring and a new feature called hill hold control that is common in the Yeti, Superb and Octavia ranges.

Other safety features that could be available in the Skoda Fabia Combi are the fuel flow interruption system and provision to attach ISOFIX child restraint seat.

Skoda Fabia Combi 2011 Pricing and Recommendations

The Skoda Fabia Combi is a very agile vehicle and the steering is very responsive. This makes driving the Combi very enjoyable whether driving in the city or cruising on the highway. The car is firm and planted on the road not the least because of the suspension and the ride is comfortable even on rough, uneven roads.

The Skoda Fabia Combi will cater to those Indian buyers looking for a comfortable small car with the interior space of a family vehicle. This premium hatchback provides not only some much needed competition to the segments but Tata Indigo Marina and Optra SRV but could also give Indian buyers the best choice in the market.

With prices expected to be around the 10 lakh mark, the Fabia Combi is an impressive hatchback that has all the makings of a hit. It includes all the essential features found in Skoda automobiles and should be around for a long time.

2011 Skoda Fabia Combi in India Specifications and Price

Vehicle Category: Hatchback
Engines (petrol): 1.2 L, TSI,4-cyl, supercharged, 77 kW, 180 Nm torque
Engines (diesel): 1.6 L, TDI, CR, DPF, turbocharged, 77 kW, 205 Nm torque
Drivetrain: Front engine, 5 passenger, 5-door hatch, FWD
Transmissions (standard): 5-speed manual / 7-speed automatic
0-100 kph: 11.8 sec
Mileage city/hwy: 12 / 18 kmpl
Skoda Fabia Combi price: Rs.10 Lakh (est)

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