The Skoda Fabia II 1.6 i 16V Automatic, produced between April 2007 and 2010, represented a key offering in Skoda’s lineup during the second generation of the Fabia (Typ 5J). Positioned as a comfortable and practical option, this variant aimed to provide a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving. It was part of the broader Fabia II range, which utilized the Volkswagen Group’s A05 (Polo 9N) platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform. This model catered to buyers seeking a no-nonsense hatchback with the convenience of an automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Fabia |
| Generation | Fabia II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V (105 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 143 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 3800 rpm (112.85 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / BTS |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.9 mm (3.42 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1070 kg (2358.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1585 kg (3494.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1163 l (41.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3992 mm (157.17 in.) |
| Width | 1642 mm (64.65 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2462 mm (96.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1436 mm (56.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/60 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Fabia II 1.6 i 16V Automatic lies the EA111 engine family, specifically the BTS code. This 1.6-liter inline-four engine is a naturally aspirated unit featuring multi-point fuel injection. The 16-valve cylinder head, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to improved breathing and a broader torque curve. The engine produces 105 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 153 Nm (113 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The automatic transmission is a conventional six-speed unit, offering smooth shifts but sacrificing some of the responsiveness found in manual versions. This transmission was chosen to appeal to drivers prioritizing comfort and convenience over sporty driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine paired with the six-speed automatic transmission delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 10.9 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 115 mph. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic feels slightly less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the automatic provides a more relaxed driving experience, especially in urban traffic. The power delivery is linear, making it predictable and easy to control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 i 16V Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features included ABS, driver and passenger airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels, such as the Elegance, offered additional features like alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a focus on durability and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Fabia II utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a twist-beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension is tuned to prioritize ride comfort over handling precision, making it well-suited for everyday driving conditions. Stabilizer bars are present on both axles, helping to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fabia II 1.6 i 16V Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable hatchback. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked outright power, and the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times. Compared to other trims, such as the 1.4 TDI diesel, the 1.6 i 16V Automatic offered lower running costs but less torque and fuel economy. Against competitors like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, the Fabia offered a compelling value proposition, particularly in terms of space and practicality.
Legacy
The EA111 engine, while generally reliable, can be prone to oil consumption issues as it ages. Regular oil checks and timely maintenance are crucial to prevent engine damage. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained, is also relatively reliable. Today, the Fabia II 1.6 i 16V Automatic represents an affordable and practical used car option. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. While not a performance car, it provides a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation for everyday use. Parts availability is generally good, thanks to the widespread use of the A05 platform across various Volkswagen Group models.
