Fake carbon fiber is used in the supermini, as well as 18-inch wheels.
Skoda has ruled out the return to the Fabia RS and will no longer offer the supermini beyond the Monte Carlo trim. Indirectly, the Czech brand reiterates that the wagon will not be returning for the fourth-generation as the flagship model introduced today completes its product range. The upgrades are cosmetic, as with all previous models in the MC specification.
The exterior changes begin with Skoda’s use of a variety black accents. These are visible on the grille and apron. Mirror caps and side skirts also have a similar dark finish. The tailgate’s large “SKODA” lettering and the faux diffuser at the back have the same black finish. The contrast black roof that extends onto the rear spoiler and A-pillars completes the two-tone look.
The standard wheel size is 16 inches. However, you can get a 17-inch set. Both wheels have removable plastic trims that increase aero and lower drag coefficient to 0.28. Active front grilles with adjustable slats make it possible to achieve a very impressive Cd. The 18-inch alloys are a better option for those who want to compromise comfort in order to achieve more style.
Interior design has been mostly carried over from lower Fabia trims, but with standard sports seats. You can also find fake carbon fiber on the door cards and dashboard, as well as white stitching to brighten things up. The Monte Carlo comes standard with LED ambient lighting, while the 10.25 inch fully digital instrument cluster costs an extra.
Fully loaded specifications include a trunk-mounted subwoofer and five USB-C ports. Wireless charging is also available. A 9.2-inch infotainment screen comes bundled with a 64GB SSD to store navigation system maps. Skoda’s Fabia Monte Carlo comes with nine airbags, adaptive cruise controls, and speeds up to 130 mph (210 km/h).
The Monte Carlo, despite being called the sportiest Fabia is still sold with regular engines. You can choose the lowly 1.0-liter naturally-aspirated unit. This is a three-pot that produces 80 hp (59kW) and 93 Nm (69.5 lb-ft). It’s delivered to the front wheels by a five-speed manual transmission. It takes 15.5 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h), and 111 mph (179 km/h).
Next is the turbocharged, 1.0-liter. This three-cylinder has a five speed manual and 95 HP (70 kW), 175 Nm (135 lb-ft) respectively. The turbocharged 1.0-liter increases the sprint time to 10.6 seconds, and the maximum speed to 120 mph (193 km/h).
The 1.0 TSI EVO engine has 110 hp (81 kW), and 200 Nm (148 lbft). It also offers a choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a seven speed, dual-clutch auto. The sprint takes 10 seconds for the three-pedal version, while its DSG counterpart can complete it in a tenth of second. Both can reach speeds of 127 mph (205 km/h).
The Fabia Monte Carlo’s engine of choice is the larger four-cylinder 1.5 liter with 150 HP (110 kW) & 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). It is only available with the DSG and can sprint in just eight seconds.
Skoda will soon have Fabia, the top-of-the-line Skoda model, on sale in Europe.