Paris show: Next Skoda Fabia revealed

SKODA today pulled the sheets off its all-new Fabia light hatchback revealing that its smallest offering will carry the same design language as the rest of the winged-arrow range.

This was expected, as a series of teaser images leading up to today’s unveiling hinted that the newest addition to the Czech brand's fleet would adopt the moustache-grille, sharp angles and bold creases seen on the larger Octavia, Rapid, Superb and Yeti models.

Skoda also confirmed the new Fabia will have a bigger boot – the largest in its class – as well as increased passenger space and a range of “simply clever” features including MirrorLink smart-phone connectivity.

The new model will also have more customisation options, including 15 paint colours, two-tone roof and a wheel and mirror-cap option as seen on the outgoing version.

Skoda's head designer Josef Kaban said the third-generation Fabia would be “flatter and wider” vehicle, setting new standards in its segment.

“During the development of the third-generation Fabia, we focused on creating a sportier vehicle and made the design altogether crisper,” he said. “The result is a young, fresh and modern compact car.”

As previously reported, a new line of up to seven engines will cut fuel consumption over the last generation Fabia, including a 55kW GreenLine diesel option using just 3.1 litres of fuel per 100km.

Three four-cylinder petrol options ranging between 44kW and 81kW and three diesels in addition to the GreenLine have have also been confirmed for Europe, but Australian specification has yet to be announced.

The next-generation Fabia will arrive in Australia next year, after its global debut at the Paris motor show later this year.