The Skoda Fabia II Combi Scout 1.4 16V, produced from 2009 to 2010, was a unique offering within the second-generation Fabia (Typ 5J) range. Positioned as a crossover-styled estate car, the Scout aimed to blend the practicality of a station wagon with a slightly more rugged aesthetic and increased ground clearance. It was primarily marketed in Europe, capitalizing on the growing demand for small, versatile family vehicles. This particular variant, powered by the 1.4-liter 16-valve engine producing 86 horsepower, represented an entry-level option within the Scout lineup, offering a balance of affordability and functionality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Fabia |
| Generation | Fabia II Combi Scout |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 16V (86 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3800 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / BXW |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1065 kg (2347.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1595 kg (3516.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1460 l (51.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4250 mm (167.32 in.) |
| Width | 1658 mm (65.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2462 mm (96.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear track | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 926 mm (36.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.6° |
| Departure angle | 18.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Skoda Fabia II Combi Scout 1.4 16V, launched in 2009 and continuing through 2010, was a derivative of the popular Fabia II Combi (estate) model. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s PQ35 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), the Scout variant aimed to offer a more adventurous aesthetic and slightly enhanced practicality compared to the standard Fabia Combi. The “Scout” designation, borrowed from other Skoda models, signified a ruggedized appearance with plastic body cladding, raised suspension, and a focus on light off-road capability – though it remained fundamentally a front-wheel-drive vehicle. This 1.4-liter engine and 5-speed manual transmission combination was positioned as the entry point to the Scout range, appealing to buyers seeking an affordable and economical crossover-style vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Fabia II Combi Scout 1.4 16V is the EA111 engine family, specifically the BXW code. This 1390cc, inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-port fuel injection. The 16-valve dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain contributes to its relatively efficient operation. The engine produces 86 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 132 Nm (97.36 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The gearbox featured typical ratios for a vehicle of this class, prioritizing acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at highway speeds. The engine’s relatively simple design and lack of forced induction contributed to its reliability, but also limited its overall performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 16V engine in the Fabia Scout delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.1 seconds, and top speed is limited to 107.5 mph. Compared to higher-output versions of the Fabia II, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter engines, the 1.4 feels noticeably less responsive. The manual transmission helps to extract the most from the engine, but requires frequent downshifting when overtaking or climbing hills. The raised suspension of the Scout variant provides a slightly more comfortable ride than the standard Fabia, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road more effectively. However, this also results in a slightly higher center of gravity and increased body roll during cornering. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fabia II Combi Scout 1.4 16V typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included central locking, electric front windows, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. The Scout trim also added distinctive exterior styling elements, such as plastic body cladding, roof rails, and unique alloy wheel designs. Interior features included cloth upholstery and a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras available for this trim included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and parking sensors. The interior space was generous for a vehicle of its size, offering ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Fabia II Combi Scout utilized a McPherson strut front suspension with a torsion beam rear suspension. The Scout variant featured a slightly raised ride height compared to the standard Fabia Combi, providing increased ground clearance for navigating rougher terrain. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup with electric power assistance, offering a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fabia II Combi Scout 1.4 16V was generally well-received by automotive critics as an affordable and practical crossover option. However, the 1.4-liter engine was often criticized for its lack of power, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other trims in the Fabia lineup, such as the 1.6 MPI or the diesel-powered TDI variants, the 1.4 offered the lowest performance but also the lowest running costs. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures around 36.2 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, with the EA111 engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Skoda Fabia II Combi Scout 1.4 16V remains a relatively common sight on the used car market today. Its affordability, practicality, and reasonable reliability have made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. The EA111 engine, while not particularly powerful, is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s susceptibility to oil consumption as it ages. Overall, the Fabia II Combi Scout 1.4 16V represents a sensible and economical choice for those seeking a versatile and practical small estate car.
