The Skoda Fabia II (facelift, produced from September 2010 to August 2013) 1.2 TDI 75 horsepower variant represented an entry-level offering within the broader Fabia II range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and economical choice, it catered to buyers prioritizing low running costs over outright performance. This model was particularly significant in European markets, where diesel engines and compact hatchbacks were – and continue to be – highly popular. The Fabia II itself was based on the Volkswagen Group’s PQ25 platform (also known as the A5 platform), shared with models like the Volkswagen Polo and SEAT Ibiza.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Fabia |
| Generation | Fabia II (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TDI (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2010 |
| End of production | August, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.9 kg/Hp, 67.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 2000 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CFWA |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1114-1128 kg (2455.95 – 2486.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1644-1658 kg (3624.4 – 3655.26 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%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 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) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14° |
| Departure angle | 16.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14; 185/60 R14; 195/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 14; 6J x 14; 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fabia variant is the EA189 series 1.2-liter three-cylinder diesel engine, specifically the CFWA code. This engine is a turbocharged common rail diesel, representing a shift towards smaller, more efficient engines. The CFWA features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating four valves per cylinder. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to boost power and torque despite the engine’s small displacement. The common rail direct injection system, operating at very high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery and efficient combustion. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel economy. While an automatic transmission was available on other Fabia II models, it was not offered with the 1.2 TDI 75 hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 TDI 75 hp Fabia was not designed for spirited driving. Acceleration was modest, taking around 14.2 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). However, the engine’s 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft) of torque, available from 2000 rpm, provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving situations. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than performance. The engine felt most comfortable in the mid-range, offering sufficient power for overtaking and maintaining highway speeds, although it required downshifting for quicker acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 TDI or petrol variants, the 1.2 TDI felt noticeably slower, but it excelled in urban environments and on longer journeys where fuel economy was paramount.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 TDI 75 hp Fabia typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS, front airbags, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows, and a more advanced audio system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but this variant generally occupied the entry-level position in the Fabia II lineup.
Chassis & Braking
The Fabia II’s chassis featured independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums – a cost-saving measure common in entry-level models. The steering was rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering light and precise control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2 TDI 75 hp Fabia was well-received by buyers seeking an economical and practical hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the 1.6 TDI variants, the 1.2 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of acceleration and refinement. The petrol-powered versions provided more responsive performance but were less fuel-efficient. The 1.2 TDI’s reliability was generally good, although the diesel particulate filter (DPF) required periodic maintenance, particularly for drivers who primarily undertook short journeys.
Legacy
The 1.2 TDI engine, while later superseded by more advanced units, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The Fabia II 1.2 TDI 75 hp remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for first-time buyers and those seeking a cost-effective mode of transportation. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs continue to make it an attractive option, although potential buyers should be aware of the need to maintain the DPF and address any potential issues with the turbocharger or fuel injection system.
