Skoda Fabia Estate GreenLine 1.4 TDI PD

Nov 6 2008 Peter Keenan

GREENLINE implies something that's eco-friendly and Skoda doesn't let the side down with this Fabia estate.

The model is equipped with a modified version of the 1.4-litre diesel engine making it the most fuel efficient car the company has ever produced.

Okay, the three cylinder oil burner produces only 80bhp which means it's slower than Forest Gump at algebra when it comes to a sprint from the lights - but the estate version of Skoda's supermini returns an average fuel economy figure of 68.9mpg and has a carbon dioxide output of just 109g/km - which means ultra low running costs.

Own one and you will pay just £35 in road tax and if you have the misfortune to travel through London the Fabia GreenLine Estate will at least ensure you are exempt from the capital's dreaded congestion charge.

The significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions has been made possible through aerodynamic and drivetrain modifications.

The five-speed manual gearbox is unique to the GreenLine featuring ratios that maximise fuel economy, while bodywork modifications include the lower front bumper level being raised by 35mm with additional panels fitted under the chassis to improve airflow. In addition the suspension has been lowered by 15mm.

As a result the Fabia GreenLine gets another 7.5mpg out of the tank than the standard Fabia 2 1.4TDI.

Thus over the course of an average year for Fabia owners - about 10,000 miles - the estate will produce 1,740kg of carbon dioxide, 80kg less than the standard model - the equivalent to leaving a 100 watt light bulb on continuously for 2.5 months.

Enough of the green credentials - how does the model shape up as a family motor? Well there's a surprising amount of luggage space thanks to the well-shaped boot which is easily big enough for the weekly supermarket shop.

The latest Fabia is taller than before so there is more headroom on offer for driver and passengers. It's also longer, so legroom is also improved.

There's plenty of room for two adults to sit comfortably in the back of the supermini, with three able to squeeze in without too much discomfort.

The driving position is good thanks to ample adjustment for both the steering wheel and driver's seat, while the dash is logically laid out and simple to use.

Though the estate is big by supermini standards, it's still small enough to be a nimble operator in the city helped by neat and accurate steering.

The ride is pretty comfortable as well with plenty of grip on offer - although given its height the estate does lean a bit when taking tight corners.

As usual Skoda ensure there is plenty of equipment included such as radio/CD player with an auxiliary port for MP3 players, air conditioning, remote central locking, electric front windows, front fog lights, remote central locking plus an immobiliser, trip computer and roof rails.

Safety is taken care of with driver, passenger and side airbags.

The first generation of the Fabia was launched back in 2000 to great acclaim. The latest models, including the GreenLine Estate, should continue to earn the car new fans.

FAST FACTS

Skoda Fabia Estate GreenLine 1.4 TDI PD 80bhp

Price : £12,145

Mechanical : 80bhp, 1,422cc, 3cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox

Max speed : 105mph

0-62mph : 13.7 secs

Combined mpg : 68.9

Insurance group : 3

CO2 emissions : 109g/km

BiK rating : 15%

Warranty : 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 10yrs anti-rust