The five millionth Škoda Fabia has rolled off the production line in Mladá Boleslav. Since 1999, this affordable entry-level model has been a cornerstone of the modern Škoda brand, alongside the Octavia. The first generation was built on a completely new Volkswagen Group platform and was regarded as one of the most spacious vehicles in its class.
The Škoda Fabia has long been one of the brand’s best-selling models. In 2024, it ranked as Škoda’s third most popular vehicle worldwide, with 117,100 units delivered. The first generation made its debut at the 58th Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1999 as the successor to the successful Felicia. It was based on an entirely new platform and offered with a wide range of engines, gearboxes, and body styles. Over the years, the Fabia has played a key role in raising the Škoda brand’s profile across European markets.
“Reaching the milestone of five million Škoda Fabias is truly an extraordinary achievement – both for our production team and for the company as a whole. Launched in 1999 as the second all-new development under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, the Fabia quickly became a symbol of the brand and a cornerstone of our model range. As Škoda’s entry-level model, it remains synonymous with high-quality cars ‘Made in the Czech Republic’ to this day,” says Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics.
Four Generations of Affordable Entry-Level Mobility
The first-generation Škoda Fabia (1999–2008) was introduced as a five-door hatchback measuring 3,960 millimetres in length. Less than a year later, the estate version was launched, followed by a notchback saloon in 2001. The distinctive design was created by a team led by then chief designer Dirk van Braeckel.
The second generation (2007–2014) was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2007. Although it was based on the same platform as its predecessor, it was 22 millimetres longer and 47 millimetres taller. The practical estate variant followed six months later. In 2009, the Scout version with off-road styling accents and the high-performance RS model were added to the line-up. This generation also introduced the Monte Carlo Edition.
The third generation (2014–2022) was revealed at the Paris Motor Show in October 2014. Built on the modern PQ26 platform, it featured new proportions that gave the vehicle a more dynamic appearance.
The fourth generation (2021–present) was launched in spring 2021 as a five-door hatchback. Its design was developed by the Škoda Design Team under the leadership of Oliver Stefani. The current Fabia can be equipped with the latest features and driver assistance systems, including Park Assist and Travel Assist 2.0, which comprises Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist with Predictive Pedestrian and Cyclist Protection, Adaptive Lane Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition.
The Škoda Fabia combines everyday practicality, excellent value for money, and numerous Simply Clever features. This winning formula has made it a favourite among both long-standing and new customers across Europe and beyond. Today’s fourth generation features modern, fuel-efficient combustion engines and advanced safety systems. Given its ongoing popularity and strategic importance to the brand, the current Fabia is set to remain in production beyond 2030.
