Skoda has an upgraded new Fabia in the showrooms for 2011. It has arrived in Ireland complete with enhanced exterior design, new specifications and a new engine line up.

It comes with many familiar features plus a host of new design elements. Skoda designers have given the new Fabia a more sophisticated look with a reworked front end, new grille, headlamps and a revised bumper arrangement.

Like the latest version of the Octavia, the changes give it stronger horizontal forms across the nose that not only forge strong links to the rest of the Skoda range but also make the Fabia appear wider and lower than the previous model.

Inside, the new Fabia is fitted with new entertainment systems, a new steering wheel and modern materials that provide a more enjoyable driving environment. The latest gadgetry including touch-screen Satellite Navigation Systems and MDI (Mobile Device Interface) for use with iPod, USB and Mini-USB devices add to the features in the new Fabia.

Although it is placed in the smaller range of cars, it is bigger inside than you think with practicality and comfort remaining core strengths of the Fabia range. The cabin space and luggage areas are generous.

You get 300 litres of luggage space extending to 1,163 litres with the rear seats folded. There is also a practical estate version that can compete with many larger family cars providing 480 litres of luggage space that expands to 1,460 litres with the rear seats folded.

New engines include a new 1.2 TSI, 85bhp, 4-cylinder petrol using the latest direct petrol injection and turbo charging technology. It produces more power while consuming less fuel (5.2l/100km or 54mpg). A more powerful 1.2 TSI 105bhp is also available with a 7-Speed DSG automatic transmission.

Two new Diesels are offered in the form of 4-cylinder, common-rail 1.6 TDI units that produce 70bhp and 90bhp and consume on average 4.2l/100km (67mpg). Emissions have been reduced considerably with Band-A emission category achieved by both Diesel options and the 1.2 TSI 85bhp petrol.

Specification wise the entry Classic model has remote central locking, electric front windows and four airbags. The Ambiente model receives alloy wheels, projector headlamps and electric mirrors, while the top Elegance model has leather steering wheel, BlueTooth phone connection, cruise control and air-conditioning.

Prices are competitive, starting from €12,265 for the 1.2, 60bhp Classic model and €16,390 for the 1.6 TDI 75bhp Diesel model. Skoda dealers are also offering attractive finance packages for the Fabia with annual percentage rates from 4.99%

Later this year Skoda will add a sporty 1.4 TSI Fabia RS model delivering 180bhp through a 7-Speed DSG Automatic transmission.