I know what you're thinking. You're thinking "I'd really like one of those new Skoda Fabias, but I'd like it to look like an aggressive GTI-style-thingy, but not actually have GTI-style-thingy running costs or insurance penalties." Well, I have good news for you Fictional Person Who Has Oddly Specific Thoughts About Skodas - Skoda has just launched the new Fabia Monte Carlo in Ireland.
The Monte Carlo edition came about as a way of marking and publicising the fact that Skoda had had multiple podium finishes in the famed Monte Carlo rally with the IRC version of the Fabia. So, the regular Fabia got a sporty new colour scheme (bright reds, acid greens, solid whites) with black roofs and door mirrors, and menacing black alloy wheels. No extra power though - the engines and chassis remained the same.
The new Fabia Monte Carlo gets the same basic recipe. You take a standard Fabia and add to it black 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels, optional sports suspension, black exterior design elements, SunSet (tinted rear window and rear side windows), rear parking sensors as well as a tinted panoramic glass roof. Amongst other features, the interior comes with a leather three-spoke sports steering wheel, black interior and uniquely designed sports seats.
Engines are the same as you get in a regular Fabia. You can have a 1.0-litre 75bhp petrol, 1.2-litre 90bhp petrol and 1.2-litre 110bhp petrol, which in this version is available with the option of a 7-speed DSG automatic. The diesel offering is a choice of a 1.4-litre TDI with 90bhp (in manual or automatic) or a 1.4-litre TDI with 105bhp. Prices start from €17,995 and wind their way up to €23,945 for a 1.4 TDI Combi.
Commenting on the Fabia Monte Carlo, Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing & Product at Skoda Ireland, said: "The Monte Carlo range has been very successful for us here in Ireland. We are delighted to see it offered now as a Combi Estate too, which we feel is a really attractive offering. This is a really striking car and the fact that it is offered in a choice of engines too makes it even more appealing to a wider audience."
We eagerly await the addition of "Bloke in Passenger Seat Who Yells 'Left Over Crest' Into Your Ear" on the options list.