Skoda launches Fabia R5-inspired road car

Skoda is celebrating its most successful ever year in motorsport with the launch of a limited edition version of the Fabia. It is based on the Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo and is painted up to resemble the championship-winning Fabia R5 WRC2 car. The colour scheme comes only in a distinctive Candy White with a contrasting black roof. Buyers do get a choice when it comes to wheel colour for the 17-inch Savio alloys, which come in bright green, white and black.

Under the bonnet is a 125hp 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine. The turbocharged four-cylinder gets a slight tweak to raise the top speed to 203 kilometres per hour. It is mated to a DSG automatic transmission, which helps it reach 100km/h from rest in 8.8 seconds.

Other tweaks over a regular Fabia model include a sportier suspension setup that sees the ride height lowered slightly and the fitment of firmer shock absorbers. Skoda’s boffins have also redesigned the rear section of the exhaust.

Inside this limited-run Fabia, the cabin gets a high level of standard equipment. New specially designed sports seats up front have a heated function. The centre console features the ‘Amundsen’ infotainment system, while other equipment includes Climatronic automatic climate control, keyless entry and start, Adaptive Cruise Control, rear parking sensors, electric windows along with automatic lights and wipers.

Skoda is limiting production numbers to just 1,300 units, and each will carry a ‘WRC 2 2017 champion’ badging. Sadly for Ireland and UK enthusiasts, this model won’t be reaching our shores. Production will only consist of left-hand drive models for sale in mainland Europe.

To make up for it, follow this link to see just how much fun the full-fat Skoda Fabia R5 is when we sampled it at the fast SlovakiaRing with none other than rally-ace and 2017 FIA WRC 2 Champion, Pontus Tidemand at the wheel.