The Skoda Fabia II (facelift, produced from March 2010 to 2014) 1.2 TSI 105 horsepower variant with the Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) represented a significant step forward for the Czech automaker’s compact hatchback. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Fabia II lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a modern and practical vehicle. This model was part of the broader Fabia II generation (Typ 5J), which itself was based on the Volkswagen Group’s A05 (PQ25) platform, shared with the Volkswagen Polo and SEAT Ibiza. The facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated engine options, including the introduction of the EA111 1.2 TSI engine paired with the 7-speed DSG transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Fabia |
| Generation | Fabia II (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | March, 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 96.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1550-4100 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1550-4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CBZB |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1089 kg (2400.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1619 kg (3569.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 315 l (11.12 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1180 l (41.67 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4000 mm (157.48 in.) |
| Width | 1642 mm (64.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2465 mm (97.05 in.) |
| Front track | 1433 mm (56.42 in.) |
| Rear track | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Front overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 675 mm (26.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 134 mm (5.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14° |
| Departure angle | 16.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| 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 | 195/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fabia variant is the EA111 series 1.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically the CBZB code. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a respectable 105 horsepower. The EA111 engine family was known for its compact size and relatively lightweight construction. The CBZB version featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design for each cylinder bank, operating four valves per cylinder (DOHC). The turbocharger provides a boost in power and torque, particularly at lower engine speeds, contributing to improved drivability. The 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) is a dual-clutch transmission that offers both the efficiency of a manual gearbox and the convenience of an automatic. It allows for quick and seamless gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. The DSG’s programming is tuned to prioritize fuel economy and smooth operation, rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 TSI 105 hp/DSG combination in the Fabia II offers a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.7 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t provide particularly sporty performance. The DSG transmission contributes to smooth and responsive gear changes, and the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power when accelerating. However, compared to the more powerful 1.4 TSI or the diesel variants, this engine feels less energetic, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The gear ratios in the DSG are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine sometimes feels slightly strained at higher speeds. The steering is light and precise, making the Fabia easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 TSI 105 hp DSG Fabia typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD player with MP3 compatibility, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Elegance, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability.
Chassis & Braking
The Fabia II’s chassis features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not as sophisticated as a fully independent rear suspension. The brakes consist of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort and stability over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2 TSI 105 hp DSG Fabia was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It offered a good balance between performance and economy, making it an attractive choice for buyers seeking a versatile compact hatchback. Compared to the 1.4 TSI, it offered slightly lower performance but better fuel economy. The diesel variants (1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI) provided even better fuel economy but were more expensive to purchase. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the DSG transmission, particularly early units.
Legacy
The 1.2 TSI engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves over time, particularly if not regularly driven on longer journeys. The DSG transmission, while offering smooth shifting, can be expensive to repair if it develops faults. Despite these potential issues, the Fabia II 1.2 TSI 105 hp DSG remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It represents a solid and well-rounded compact hatchback that continues to offer good value for money.
