Called the Monte Carlo (because it also commemorates one hundred years of the eponymous rally), its look seems to have been strongly inspired by the performance Fabia, the vRS.
Based on the current SE-spec hatchback, the Monte Carlo’s exterior is distinguished by 17” Trinity alloy wheels, black door mirror housings, a black roof, smoked headlights, a black radiator grille top and piano-black body trim which extends over the wheel arches and along the length of the car.
The inside features front sports seats, a black headlining, a perforated leather steering wheel, leather handbrake and gearstick gaiters, steel pedals and silver kick plates. Buyers can choose from either black or black and red upholstery.
All which adds up to an appealingly sporty package, but without the higher running costs that might come with the extra horsepower of the vRS.
Except that, as can be seen from the prices below, each Monte Carlo edition is a surprisingly hefty £1,520 more than the equivalent SE model from which it’s derived.
They even cost £370 more than the Elegance versions, whose additional spec over the SE includes 16” alloys, rear parking sensors, leather steering wheel, trip computer, climate control, leather gearknob and gaiter, curtain airbags and cruise control.
| Skoda Fabia 2011 UK Prices | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | SE | Elegance | Monte Carlo |
| 1.2 69PS | £11,235 | £12,385 | £12,755 |
| 1.2 TSI 86PS | £11,850 | £13,000 | £13,370 |
| 1.2 TSI 105PS | £12,510 | £13,660 | £14,030 |
| 1.6 TDI CR 75PS | £12,665 | £13,815 | £14,185 |
| 1.6 TDI CR 105PS | £13,480 | £14,630 | £15,000 |
| All prices are on the road and include VAT at 20%. | |||
So it looks like it’s a choice between appearance and extra kit. For those who favour the former, the Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo will be available to order from 24 January 2011.
