2003 Skoda Fabia Elegance review from UK and Ireland

Intermittent momentary failure of power steering.

Air conditioning failure (twice).

Air re-circulation inoperative.

The car feels solid and is great fun to drive, if a little nose-heavy compared to the petrol version.

It has been a marvellous workhorse and, because it it such a good all-rounder, we use it for nearly everything. Our Yaris (good though it is) often stays at home.

My previous car (SAAB 9000) was comfortable on long journeys, but its petrol consumption was too high, so we (perversely) often used a smaller car for those long journeys.

On my Fabia, I have supplemented the already adequate power by adding a 'smart box' in between the Engine Control Unit and the fuel injector socket. I reckon it has increased bhp and torque by 25% plus. My long term fuel economy (the car is mainly used for long journeys) is now 64mpg, an improvement on the standard consumption, which used to be in the high 50's mpg.

I like this car a lot and would certainly buy another one, despite the minor problems.

Dealer service has been very good.