Skoda Fabia 130: The £30k Hatch Celebrating 130 Years of Motorsport Excellence
Skoda has uncorked the celebratory champagne, marking an exceptional milestone: **130 years of competitive motorsport heritage**. To commemorate this monumental anniversary, the Czech manufacturer has unveiled a sharp, limited-edition offering—the **Fabia 130**—a warmed-up hatch loaded with performance enhancements and styling cues dedicated to its racing DNA.
The name "Fabia 130" is a direct, emphatic nod to Skoda’s extensive history in racing. This legacy is not limited to a single discipline; the brand has excelled in everything from punishing hill climbs and the legendary Le Mans endurance race to its globally dominant rallying program, securing numerous victories across the decades. The Fabia 130 serves as a tangible link between the current model lineup and this illustrious past.
A True Successor: Stepping in for the Fabia vRS
For UK enthusiasts, this limited-run model is the closest spiritual successor to the much-missed current-generation Fabia vRS. Its specification sheet and driving focus are clearly designed to appeal to buyers seeking more than just a standard city car.
The Fabia 130 commands a rather punchy price tag of **£29,995 in the UK**. This premium valuation reflects its exclusivity, comprehensive performance modifications, and its significance as an anniversary model, positioning it firmly in the territory of established premium hot hatches.
Engine and Core Performance Specifications
At the heart of the Fabia 130 lies the proven **1.5-litre TSI engine**, but re-tuned to deliver a potent output befitting its motorsport tribute. The unit generates a strong **175 bhp** and a peak torque figure of **184 lb ft**. This power allows the feisty hatch to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a respectable **7.4 seconds**.
To match the engine’s heightened output, Skoda has endowed the car with several dynamic and aesthetic upgrades:
- Sports suspension has been installed, sharpening the handling characteristics and reducing body roll for more engaging cornering.
- Bespoke **18-inch alloy wheels** not only enhance the aggressive stance but also contribute to stability.
- The exterior is finished with styling details that copy the iconic **Monte Carlo spec**, giving it a visually dynamic edge.
- Exclusive **decal applications** are applied along the sides of the doors and across the rear, clearly marking its limited-edition status.
Driver-Focused Software and Dynamics
Crucially, Skoda’s engineers have heavily intervened in the vehicle’s software to tailor the driving dynamics towards performance. These software changes are designed to give drivers greater control over the chassis:
- Engaging the Sport mode now actively relaxes the intervention levels of the electronic **stability control (ESC)**, allowing more experienced drivers to push the car closer to its limits.
- For maximum driving freedom, the car’s anti-slip regulation (ASR) can be **turned off completely**, a feature typically reserved for true performance models.
While the mechanical modifications are impressive, the Fabia 130 maintains its automatic configuration. The 1.5-litre turbo petrol is linked to the familiar **seven-speed dual-clutch (DSG) transmission**. Skoda is quick to point out that this unit has received **specific software mapping** designed to better utilise the available mid-range torque, ensuring quick, responsive shifts that complement enthusiastic driving.
Conclusion and Availability
The Skoda Fabia 130 is a potent homage to the brand’s 130-year racing history. It provides a unique blend of sporty performance, Monte Carlo aesthetics, and driver-focused software, justifying its premium pricing through exclusivity and technical upgrades.
This limited-run car is set to receive an allocation in the UK market. Prospective owners wishing to secure a piece of Skoda’s motorsport history should note that **orders are scheduled to open on 30 October 2025**, priced at a rather punchy £29,995.