Skoda has formally issued specs and images for its Fabia Combi wagon, after pics of the new model were leaked online overnight.
The Fabia Combi (wagon) was just days away from its appointment with destiny in Paris, alongside its hatch siblings.
A press release hurriedly issued by the manufacturer highlights key elements of the new car.
"The new ŠKODA Fabia Combi is the perfect combination of space, functionality and emotionally-rich design. On top of that, it scores with modern technology," says ŠKODA CEO Professor Winfried Vahland, as quoted in the release.
"A modern, fresh car that stands for the best brand values of ŠKODA with the largest interior space in the small car estate segment. At the same time it extensively meets the increased requirements on connectivity and customisation."
Skoda claims that when it begins rolling out the Combi to global markets early next year, the light wagon will offer class-leading luggage capacity of 530 litres – 25 litres more than its predecessor – from a boot with a false floor; and advanced connectivity by the medium of new infotainment system technologies. The car is lower than before and offers enhanced passenger accommodation with 21mm more interior width, 8mm more cabin length, and more headroom in front.
New-generation petrol and diesel engine options – including a three-cylinder diesel – for the Fabia Combi deliver fuel consumption and CO2 emissions as low as 3.1L/100km and 82g/km respectively. Skoda attributes the reduced fuel use and emissions to the new-found engine efficiency, combined with weight loss (with a kerb mass up to 55kg lighter at 1004kg) and slipperier aerodynamics. Peak power varies between 55kW and 81kW, and the engines drive through either manual or DSG (dual-clutch) transmissions to the front wheels.
The Fabia hatch and Combi both feature technologies derived from Volkswagen's MQB platform development, including the drivetrains, the electro-mechanical steering and a substantial proportion of the electrical systems.
Safety features on board will include six airbags, Multi-Collision Brake System and the option of Front Assistant and City Emergency Braking Function. The Driver Activity Assistant alerts the driver at the first sign of fatigue setting in, and other driving aids comprise tyre pressure monitoring, a speed limiting facility and Hill Hold Control.
For the comfort and convenience of driver and passengers, the Fabia Combi will be available with keyless entry, parking sensors front and rear, rain-sensing wipers/dusk-sensing headlights and air conditioning/climate control.
All the latest news and video from the motoring.com.au team at the Paris motor show