Absolutely Fabia-lous

IT’S certainly not easy
choosing a small car these days. Our tightened purse strings mean our decision
is heavily based on value, reliability and running costs. But does this mean
that we have to sacrifice style and aesthetics?

I’ve been driving the Skoda Fabia 1.2 Sportline – a
charming and practical supermini – and perhaps oddly in this market, which is
so heavily dominated by diesel engines, this one is a petrol.

First impressions were of a well-built, solid run
around but as the days and miles clocked by my affection for the car became
more personal.

I put it through its paces as a mum running routine
errands around town and motorway driving to and from work not to mention
several trips to Cork. All of which it handled without complaint.

The ride is smooth and comfortable and the handling
competent. The fuel economy is fine around town but it is a little thirstier
once you get on the motorway. This is a car that sits more naturally at 100km/h
rather than the legally allowed 120km/h.

The five-door is practical and its spacious overall
with a boot big enough for a buggy but that’s about it. There are also two
isofix points in the rear, which makes fitting compatible child seats a doddle.

The interior is pleasant and the seats are comfortable
and allow for enough legroom for all. It also comes with an auxiliary port to
plug in your MP3s.

But superseding all of the above is the charm of the
motor. It’s one of those cars that you look back at as you walk away and can’t
help but get a little glow of pride when you return to its friendly face.

Achieving this level of affection for, let’s face it,
an inanimate object, is an impressive feat considering the car is only mine for
the short term.

The Sportline model includes 16-inch alloys, leather
steering wheel and contrast roof (my Fabia was black with a silver roof to give
it an edgy and fun appearance).

The Fabia competes with the Ford Fiesta, Seat Ibiza
and the Kia Rio.

It also enjoys the second lowest tax band Band B of

?¬15,270. Not bad considering you’re getting a
decent sized supermini that ticks all the right boxes.

In a market where there are lots of brands vying for
your attention, the Fabia is more than deserving of your consideration.