The AWD pocket rocket has a sequential five-speed transmission.
Skoda launched the fourth-generation Fabia just over a year ago. It was only a matter time before the supermini would sport racing attire. The Czech brand has finally revealed the Fabia RS Rally2, a subcompact hatchback that is based on the same MQB A0 platform. The pocket rocket is dressed in Mamba Green and has almost doubled the downforce of its predecessor.
The Fabia RS Rally2 AWD is 291 horsepower. While the road car has 150 horsepower and front-wheel drive, it only comes with a vehicle with 150 horsepower. A four-cylinder engine of 1.6-liter displacement provides the power and torque. It can produce a staggering 430 Newton-meters (361 pound-feet) of torque. Based on the VW Group’s 2.0 TSI engine, the engine sends power to both axles via a five-speed sequential transmission.
Skoda’s motorsport department has fitted the Fabia RS Rally2 front and rear differentials to its Fabia RS Rally2. Engineers have also added an electro-hydraulic control to the inter-axle clutch. This allows the rear axle to be disengaged by the handbrake. This feature is useful when turning sharply. The chassis has been totally modified to match the road car. For gravel competitions, the wheel size is 15 inches with 300-mm discs, and 18 inches with 355-mm front discs and 300-mm back discs when racing on asphalt.
The Fabia RS Rally2’s 82.5-liter fuel tank is made of nylon and bespoke rubber. It has a foam inside that reduces fuel leakage to comply with FIA regulations. The tank’s shell is made of a mixture of fiberglass and Kevlar, while the fuel used is 100% synthetic from completely renewable sources.
The Fabia RS Rally2’s top speed is not a priority. This is why it is only 124 mph (200 km/h). The Fabia RS Rally2 has a shorter gear ratio for maximum acceleration. It also has a custom suspension that includes MacPherson Struts at both the front and rear axles. It’s significantly wider than the road-going version and features a roof scoop to improve airflow and freshen the cabin.
Do not expect a new Fabia RS, it is unlikely. Ex-Skoda CEO Thomas Schafer said that the hot hatch would not be returning, and it would be difficult to make a business case. We’d like to remind VW that the Polo is still available as a DSG-only vehicle with 207 horsepower and 320 Nm (236lb-ft of torque).