It's one 'L' of a car for new drivers: FABIA named Best First Car at Parkers New Car Awards 2023

The ŠKODA FABIA has been named Best First Car in the annual Parkers New Car Awards. The compact yet feature-packed Czech supermini fought off tough competition to be named as the number one car to buy for new drivers.

Since the first model of the FABIA was introduced in the UK in 2000, new drivers have favoured it for its excellent road manners, striking styling, and smooth drivetrain. The newest, fourth-generation model, which entered the UK last year, is now acknowledged as offering the finest overall value for drivers shopping for their first automobile.

Explaining why the FABIA hit the mark with the Parkers judging panel, Keith Adams, Editor of Parkers said: “The FABIA is an incredibly well-rounded small car that makes a sound choice for those just starting out. You’ll find plenty of room inside for your friends and family plus a generously proportioned boot for the class.”

The judging panel also praised the FABIA’s simple but refined driving experience, with Adams adding: “It’s easy and pleasant to drive, with a good balance between comfort, handling and decent performance. Specify some flashy alloy wheels and loud paint from the options and it looks the bees' knees.”

The new model continues to set the industry standard for spaciousness, value, and quality and is the first FABIA to be built on the Volkswagen Group's modular MQB-A0 platform. The new Fabia, like its predecessors, offers a wide range of new comfort amenities in addition to a profusion of modern safety and assistance systems. It is also the most roomy vehicle in its segment.

The lineup includes four highly detailed trim levels: SE Comfort, SE L Colour Edition, and Monte Carlo. Customers can select from four petrol engine options that produce outputs ranging from 80 PS to 110 PS. Each unit is made with an upgraded EVO generation engine from the Volkswagen Group, which offers more economy.