Skoda Australia just has taken the lid off a sportier looking variant of its Fabia, most likely as an obvious stop-gap against the axed Fabia RS that left certain buyers without an alternative within the Czech automaker’s line-up.
Called the Monte Carlo and costing upwards from $23,490, the new variant is essentially the same Fabia 81TSI that we’re used to seeing at the top of the range in terms of mechanicals, but now interestingly comes as a wagon in addition to the standard hatch body style.
It’s named after the Monte Carlo Rally, an association that doesn’t go much farther than any other Fabia to liven up the driving experience. Under the hood you’ll find the same peppy 81kW/175Nm turbocharged 1.2-litre TSI engine as before, mated to the usual 7-speed DSG twin-clutch auto shifter.
Skoda has also furnished the car with a sports tuned suspension to live up to that bold choice of name at least a little. The Fabia Monte Carlo also has lashings of new black trim pieces such as front grille frame, side skirts, door mirrors, front spoiler, rear diffuser, and finally, a set of 17-inch black painted alloys. Additionally, cruise control and speed limiter has also been bundled in.
In addition to the upgrades made to differentiate the Monte Carlo from the rest of the Fabia range, the 2017 update to the car will most notably bring a rear view camera as a standard feature throughout.
Customers can also choose the optional Tech Pack for an extra $1,800. This adds radar-based adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, rear parking sensors and automatic climate control.
It’s an option that will complement the Fabia well as the car already comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support on its SmartLink-equipped infotainment system as well as Front Assist with City Emergency Brake, Multi-Collision Brake, and Electronic Stability Control.
For more on Skoda vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
