Skoda Fabia Hatchback 1.6 TDI CR 105 Monte Carlo 5dr Review

For The Monte Carlo special edition is based on the SE model, but with a sporty makeover that includes a black roof, and black details on the body. It also has a sports chassis to sharpen up the handling.

Against The styling may be a bit too in-your-face for some Skoda buyers, while the price may be a bit too high.

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

The Monte Carlo edition will certainly appeal to some buyers, but the price of this particular version may well put most off.

What Car? readers say

4.029412

Key facts

0–60mph: 10.9 secs
Top speed: 117 mph
Average mpg: 67.3
Tank range: 666 miles

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Features

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Size

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The full Skoda Fabia review

Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Wide range, but some are left wanting
Ride & Handling
3 out of 5 stars
Decent ride, but handling disappoints
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
Some of the engines are noisy
Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
Good discounts and low fuel bills
Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Disappointing cabin plastics
Safety & Security
3 out of 5 stars
Twin front and side airbags
Behind The Wheel
4 out of 5 stars
Comfy and user-friendly
Space & Practicality
4 out of 5 stars
Roomy for a supermini
Equipment
3 out of 5 stars
Entry-level cars miss air-con

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

The Fabia is starting to feel its age next to the best superminis, but it’s still comfortable, easy to drive and nimble in town.

Some of the cabin plastics are not as appealing as we’d expect, but Skoda has a hard-won reputation for reliability and build quality, so it’s better to focus on the space, which is generous for a car in this sector.

There’s also masses of seat and steering wheel adjustment, so finding a comfortable driving position is no problem. Skoda keeps the trims relatively simple, with a choice of S, SE, SE Plus and Elegance versions, and all are reasonably kitted out for the prices.

There are several petrol and diesel engines to choose from, but we’d avoid the three-cylinder 1.2s because they’re underpowered and noisy. The 1.4 petrol is a better bet, as are the turbocharged four-cylinder petrol 1.2s.

Reader test team says:

Skoda Fabia Hatchback 1.6 TDI CR 90 SE 5dr

This is my second Fabia 2. Previous model was the 1.9td 3. Excellent fuel economy , performance & equipment but the ride was spoilt by the 16" tyres.…

David Rae

4 out of 5 stars

Skoda Fabia Hatchback 1.2 TSI 105 Monte Carlo 5dr

I've had my skoda for 6 months and it has been great. The black trim, roof, and wheels really make the car look loads better than the standard Fabia,…

Stephen Broome

4 out of 5 stars