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Volkswagen Polo GTI 1.4 TSI 5dr (A) vs Skoda Fabia 1.4 RS (A)
17 Oct 2011|30,906 views
The Volkswagen Group is a huge corporation, and the German giant has stakes in virtually every automotive segment imaginable. From humble Skodas to the mighty Bugatti Veyron, they all have some input from the Wolfsburg conglomerate.
With several car brands under the Volkswagen umbrella regarded as 'mainstream', namely Skoda, Spanish carmaker SEAT, Volkswagen itself, and Audi, the group has wisely opted to adopt the strategy of sharing manufacturing components across the brands, for better efficiency and reduced production costs.
As a result, you'll find that several cars from the group are essentially similar under the skin. The ubiquitous Golf has spawned a number of other products for example, with cars as diverse as the Beetle to the Audi TT all having some connection to the familiar hatchback.
Here, we take out two products that are slightly smaller, but no less illustrative of the shared linage that runs through the Volkswagen Group. What makes this comparison interesting is the similarity of the cars' target market, with both the Polo GTI and Fabia RS being performance versions of their compact hatchback brethren.
But are they really just the same cars with different badges? Or is there more to it?
With several car brands under the Volkswagen umbrella regarded as 'mainstream', namely Skoda, Spanish carmaker SEAT, Volkswagen itself, and Audi, the group has wisely opted to adopt the strategy of sharing manufacturing components across the brands, for better efficiency and reduced production costs.
As a result, you'll find that several cars from the group are essentially similar under the skin. The ubiquitous Golf has spawned a number of other products for example, with cars as diverse as the Beetle to the Audi TT all having some connection to the familiar hatchback.
Here, we take out two products that are slightly smaller, but no less illustrative of the shared linage that runs through the Volkswagen Group. What makes this comparison interesting is the similarity of the cars' target market, with both the Polo GTI and Fabia RS being performance versions of their compact hatchback brethren.
But are they really just the same cars with different badges? Or is there more to it?
 |
Exterior
Despite their perceived similarity, the two cars, when put side-by-side, projects images that are as different as chalk and cheese.
The more colourful Fabia, in its Corrada Red Uni paintwork and black roof treatment, comes across as a slightly more outgoing and sporty-looking car. Other colour options for the Fabia include Sprint Yellow, Race Blue and Rally Green, which provides an indication of Skoda's intentions for its hot hatch. The Skoda seems to have a bit of a boy racer image, which may not appeal to some.
In contrast, the Polo GTI exudes a more subdued demeanour, with its restrained form giving it a classier and more modern outlook. It still sports visual cues that allude to its performance prowess, like the honeycomb grille bordered by the red stripes that are a Volkswagen GTI hallmark, but overall the Polo is ideal for those who want an understated fast hatchback.
 |
Interior
Inside, one will find both cars to be rather similar in general design, with both cars featuring rectangular centre consoles with high-positioned air con vents and a prominent stereo system situated in the middle.
Look closer however, and you'll start to notice the difference between the two. The Polo feels a bit more upmarket and has a better quality feel to it, with the glossy plastic surrounding the audio system, and soft touch plastics.
Not that the Fabia RS doesn't stack up, but somehow it feels like the Skoda is just a slight notch lower in the quality stakes when put beside the Polo, with its harder plastics and manual air con dials (compared with the slicker unit on the Polo) giving us the impression that the Fabia is a small step backwards from its Volkswagen brother.
Inside, one will find both cars to be rather similar in general design, with both cars featuring rectangular centre consoles with high-positioned air con vents and a prominent stereo system situated in the middle.
Look closer however, and you'll start to notice the difference between the two. The Polo feels a bit more upmarket and has a better quality feel to it, with the glossy plastic surrounding the audio system, and soft touch plastics.
Not that the Fabia RS doesn't stack up, but somehow it feels like the Skoda is just a slight notch lower in the quality stakes when put beside the Polo, with its harder plastics and manual air con dials (compared with the slicker unit on the Polo) giving us the impression that the Fabia is a small step backwards from its Volkswagen brother.
Both cars actually have fairly similar equipment levels, even though one can't really tell without close observation. They both have electronically-operated sunroofs, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, leather-trimmed steering wheels with audio controls, and sports seats. However, the Polo's upholstery is decked out in a mixture of leather and Alcantara, while the Fabia has to make do with fabric, further underlying the class divide between the two.
The Fabia's cabin has a more sombre atmosphere, with its all black get-up, along with its chunky steering wheel boss and fabric seats giving it a rather serious feel. While the Polo's interior is also mostly black, details such as the flat-bottomed steering wheel and red stitching on the wheel itself and gear lever gaiter help make the car's cabin a slightly more interesting place to be in.
The Fabia's cabin has a more sombre atmosphere, with its all black get-up, along with its chunky steering wheel boss and fabric seats giving it a rather serious feel. While the Polo's interior is also mostly black, details such as the flat-bottomed steering wheel and red stitching on the wheel itself and gear lever gaiter help make the car's cabin a slightly more interesting place to be in.
 |
The Drive
Both cars being so-called hot hatches, performance is therefore paramount when it comes to judging these two's driving abilities.
Under the bonnet, the Polo GTI and the Fabia RS match each other punch-for-punch in terms of outright numbers. Both have the Volkswagen Group's much-renowned twin-charged 1.4-litre powerplant that is found in various other Volkswagen cars, which churn out identical figures at 180bhp and 250Nm, and both drive the front wheels via another Volkswagen innovation, a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox.
Yet despite that, the duo behaves rather differently on the roads. The Polo has a much quicker turn of pace, getting to 100km/h from a standstill in just 6.9 seconds, compared to the Fabia's 7.3 seconds. This is down to the Fabia's slightly bigger size, with the Skoda both longer and heavier than its Volkswagen counterpart.
But strangely, the Fabia comes across as the livelier of the two when outright pace is disregarded. It may not be as fast as the Polo, but it feels rather eager to prove itself as a hot hatch. The car feels well balanced, whether it be on the straights or through the bends, and the steering provides a good feel throughout, handling whatever is thrown at it with glee, and putting a smile on the driver's face.
The Polo tries its best to acquit itself, but somehow it just seems a bit too 'grown-up'. The lithesome steering steers the front wheels, which appears to be too busy trying to cope with all 180 horses, and while generally the Polo does everything that is asked of it, it doesn't feel as enthusiastic as the Skoda.
Elsewhere, both cars ride fairly well, with the Fabia having the slight edge in comfort. The Polo GTI's lowered and stiffer suspension has an effect on ride quality, but it's not harsh enough to affect daily driving, in Singapore at least.
Both cars being so-called hot hatches, performance is therefore paramount when it comes to judging these two's driving abilities.
Under the bonnet, the Polo GTI and the Fabia RS match each other punch-for-punch in terms of outright numbers. Both have the Volkswagen Group's much-renowned twin-charged 1.4-litre powerplant that is found in various other Volkswagen cars, which churn out identical figures at 180bhp and 250Nm, and both drive the front wheels via another Volkswagen innovation, a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox.
Yet despite that, the duo behaves rather differently on the roads. The Polo has a much quicker turn of pace, getting to 100km/h from a standstill in just 6.9 seconds, compared to the Fabia's 7.3 seconds. This is down to the Fabia's slightly bigger size, with the Skoda both longer and heavier than its Volkswagen counterpart.
But strangely, the Fabia comes across as the livelier of the two when outright pace is disregarded. It may not be as fast as the Polo, but it feels rather eager to prove itself as a hot hatch. The car feels well balanced, whether it be on the straights or through the bends, and the steering provides a good feel throughout, handling whatever is thrown at it with glee, and putting a smile on the driver's face.
The Polo tries its best to acquit itself, but somehow it just seems a bit too 'grown-up'. The lithesome steering steers the front wheels, which appears to be too busy trying to cope with all 180 horses, and while generally the Polo does everything that is asked of it, it doesn't feel as enthusiastic as the Skoda.
Elsewhere, both cars ride fairly well, with the Fabia having the slight edge in comfort. The Polo GTI's lowered and stiffer suspension has an effect on ride quality, but it's not harsh enough to affect daily driving, in Singapore at least.
Conclusion
The purpose of this road test is not to find an outright winner between these two hot hatches, but to see how different two cars can be when the same underpinnings are applied in a similar fashion.
In that respect, it is a surprise that Skoda has managed to make good use of what it has got from its parent, and come up with a car that is reasonably entertaining. And although it doesn't have the pace of most performance hatchbacks, it could probably dice with the best in corners, so credit must be accorded to the Czech automaker.
Comparatively, the Polo GTI seems to appeal to the slightly more mature crowd. It may not be as fun a driving proposition when put against the Fabia, but in many ways, it could probably attract enough folks who are drawn by its more contemporary looks, brisk performance, better quality all round or simply just the strength of the Volkswagen badge.
Choosing between one of these therefore, is solely down to personal preference. All things being equal, the Fabia RS tugs at the heart of the keen driver more. The Polo GTI meanwhile, makes for a better long term ownership proposition.
You can't go wrong with either of these if you want a small hatchback that packs a decent punch. The only difference being whether you want it loud and vibrant (Fabia) or subtle and discreet (Polo).
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The purpose of this road test is not to find an outright winner between these two hot hatches, but to see how different two cars can be when the same underpinnings are applied in a similar fashion.
In that respect, it is a surprise that Skoda has managed to make good use of what it has got from its parent, and come up with a car that is reasonably entertaining. And although it doesn't have the pace of most performance hatchbacks, it could probably dice with the best in corners, so credit must be accorded to the Czech automaker.
Comparatively, the Polo GTI seems to appeal to the slightly more mature crowd. It may not be as fun a driving proposition when put against the Fabia, but in many ways, it could probably attract enough folks who are drawn by its more contemporary looks, brisk performance, better quality all round or simply just the strength of the Volkswagen badge.
Choosing between one of these therefore, is solely down to personal preference. All things being equal, the Fabia RS tugs at the heart of the keen driver more. The Polo GTI meanwhile, makes for a better long term ownership proposition.
You can't go wrong with either of these if you want a small hatchback that packs a decent punch. The only difference being whether you want it loud and vibrant (Fabia) or subtle and discreet (Polo).
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The Volkswagen Group is a huge corporation, and the German giant has stakes in virtually every automotive segment imaginable. From humble Skodas to the mighty Bugatti Veyron, they all have some input from the Wolfsburg conglomerate.
With several car brands under the Volkswagen umbrella regarded as 'mainstream', namely Skoda, Spanish carmaker SEAT, Volkswagen itself, and Audi, the group has wisely opted to adopt the strategy of sharing manufacturing components across the brands, for better efficiency and reduced production costs.
As a result, you'll find that several cars from the group are essentially similar under the skin. The ubiquitous Golf has spawned a number of other products for example, with cars as diverse as the Beetle to the Audi TT all having some connection to the familiar hatchback.
Here, we take out two products that are slightly smaller, but no less illustrative of the shared linage that runs through the Volkswagen Group. What makes this comparison interesting is the similarity of the cars' target market, with both the Polo GTI and Fabia RS being performance versions of their compact hatchback brethren.
But are they really just the same cars with different badges? Or is there more to it?
With several car brands under the Volkswagen umbrella regarded as 'mainstream', namely Skoda, Spanish carmaker SEAT, Volkswagen itself, and Audi, the group has wisely opted to adopt the strategy of sharing manufacturing components across the brands, for better efficiency and reduced production costs.
As a result, you'll find that several cars from the group are essentially similar under the skin. The ubiquitous Golf has spawned a number of other products for example, with cars as diverse as the Beetle to the Audi TT all having some connection to the familiar hatchback.
Here, we take out two products that are slightly smaller, but no less illustrative of the shared linage that runs through the Volkswagen Group. What makes this comparison interesting is the similarity of the cars' target market, with both the Polo GTI and Fabia RS being performance versions of their compact hatchback brethren.
But are they really just the same cars with different badges? Or is there more to it?
|
Exterior
Despite their perceived similarity, the two cars, when put side-by-side, projects images that are as different as chalk and cheese.
The more colourful Fabia, in its Corrada Red Uni paintwork and black roof treatment, comes across as a slightly more outgoing and sporty-looking car. Other colour options for the Fabia include Sprint Yellow, Race Blue and Rally Green, which provides an indication of Skoda's intentions for its hot hatch. The Skoda seems to have a bit of a boy racer image, which may not appeal to some.
In contrast, the Polo GTI exudes a more subdued demeanour, with its restrained form giving it a classier and more modern outlook. It still sports visual cues that allude to its performance prowess, like the honeycomb grille bordered by the red stripes that are a Volkswagen GTI hallmark, but overall the Polo is ideal for those who want an understated fast hatchback.
|
Interior
Inside, one will find both cars to be rather similar in general design, with both cars featuring rectangular centre consoles with high-positioned air con vents and a prominent stereo system situated in the middle.
Look closer however, and you'll start to notice the difference between the two. The Polo feels a bit more upmarket and has a better quality feel to it, with the glossy plastic surrounding the audio system, and soft touch plastics.
Not that the Fabia RS doesn't stack up, but somehow it feels like the Skoda is just a slight notch lower in the quality stakes when put beside the Polo, with its harder plastics and manual air con dials (compared with the slicker unit on the Polo) giving us the impression that the Fabia is a small step backwards from its Volkswagen brother.
Inside, one will find both cars to be rather similar in general design, with both cars featuring rectangular centre consoles with high-positioned air con vents and a prominent stereo system situated in the middle.
Look closer however, and you'll start to notice the difference between the two. The Polo feels a bit more upmarket and has a better quality feel to it, with the glossy plastic surrounding the audio system, and soft touch plastics.
Not that the Fabia RS doesn't stack up, but somehow it feels like the Skoda is just a slight notch lower in the quality stakes when put beside the Polo, with its harder plastics and manual air con dials (compared with the slicker unit on the Polo) giving us the impression that the Fabia is a small step backwards from its Volkswagen brother.
Both cars actually have fairly similar equipment levels, even though one can't really tell without close observation. They both have electronically-operated sunroofs, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, leather-trimmed steering wheels with audio controls, and sports seats. However, the Polo's upholstery is decked out in a mixture of leather and Alcantara, while the Fabia has to make do with fabric, further underlying the class divide between the two.
The Fabia's cabin has a more sombre atmosphere, with its all black get-up, along with its chunky steering wheel boss and fabric seats giving it a rather serious feel. While the Polo's interior is also mostly black, details such as the flat-bottomed steering wheel and red stitching on the wheel itself and gear lever gaiter help make the car's cabin a slightly more interesting place to be in.
The Fabia's cabin has a more sombre atmosphere, with its all black get-up, along with its chunky steering wheel boss and fabric seats giving it a rather serious feel. While the Polo's interior is also mostly black, details such as the flat-bottomed steering wheel and red stitching on the wheel itself and gear lever gaiter help make the car's cabin a slightly more interesting place to be in.
|
The Drive
Both cars being so-called hot hatches, performance is therefore paramount when it comes to judging these two's driving abilities.
Under the bonnet, the Polo GTI and the Fabia RS match each other punch-for-punch in terms of outright numbers. Both have the Volkswagen Group's much-renowned twin-charged 1.4-litre powerplant that is found in various other Volkswagen cars, which churn out identical figures at 180bhp and 250Nm, and both drive the front wheels via another Volkswagen innovation, a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox.
Yet despite that, the duo behaves rather differently on the roads. The Polo has a much quicker turn of pace, getting to 100km/h from a standstill in just 6.9 seconds, compared to the Fabia's 7.3 seconds. This is down to the Fabia's slightly bigger size, with the Skoda both longer and heavier than its Volkswagen counterpart.
But strangely, the Fabia comes across as the livelier of the two when outright pace is disregarded. It may not be as fast as the Polo, but it feels rather eager to prove itself as a hot hatch. The car feels well balanced, whether it be on the straights or through the bends, and the steering provides a good feel throughout, handling whatever is thrown at it with glee, and putting a smile on the driver's face.
The Polo tries its best to acquit itself, but somehow it just seems a bit too 'grown-up'. The lithesome steering steers the front wheels, which appears to be too busy trying to cope with all 180 horses, and while generally the Polo does everything that is asked of it, it doesn't feel as enthusiastic as the Skoda.
Elsewhere, both cars ride fairly well, with the Fabia having the slight edge in comfort. The Polo GTI's lowered and stiffer suspension has an effect on ride quality, but it's not harsh enough to affect daily driving, in Singapore at least.
Both cars being so-called hot hatches, performance is therefore paramount when it comes to judging these two's driving abilities.
Under the bonnet, the Polo GTI and the Fabia RS match each other punch-for-punch in terms of outright numbers. Both have the Volkswagen Group's much-renowned twin-charged 1.4-litre powerplant that is found in various other Volkswagen cars, which churn out identical figures at 180bhp and 250Nm, and both drive the front wheels via another Volkswagen innovation, a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox.
Yet despite that, the duo behaves rather differently on the roads. The Polo has a much quicker turn of pace, getting to 100km/h from a standstill in just 6.9 seconds, compared to the Fabia's 7.3 seconds. This is down to the Fabia's slightly bigger size, with the Skoda both longer and heavier than its Volkswagen counterpart.
But strangely, the Fabia comes across as the livelier of the two when outright pace is disregarded. It may not be as fast as the Polo, but it feels rather eager to prove itself as a hot hatch. The car feels well balanced, whether it be on the straights or through the bends, and the steering provides a good feel throughout, handling whatever is thrown at it with glee, and putting a smile on the driver's face.
The Polo tries its best to acquit itself, but somehow it just seems a bit too 'grown-up'. The lithesome steering steers the front wheels, which appears to be too busy trying to cope with all 180 horses, and while generally the Polo does everything that is asked of it, it doesn't feel as enthusiastic as the Skoda.
Elsewhere, both cars ride fairly well, with the Fabia having the slight edge in comfort. The Polo GTI's lowered and stiffer suspension has an effect on ride quality, but it's not harsh enough to affect daily driving, in Singapore at least.
Conclusion
The purpose of this road test is not to find an outright winner between these two hot hatches, but to see how different two cars can be when the same underpinnings are applied in a similar fashion.
In that respect, it is a surprise that Skoda has managed to make good use of what it has got from its parent, and come up with a car that is reasonably entertaining. And although it doesn't have the pace of most performance hatchbacks, it could probably dice with the best in corners, so credit must be accorded to the Czech automaker.
Comparatively, the Polo GTI seems to appeal to the slightly more mature crowd. It may not be as fun a driving proposition when put against the Fabia, but in many ways, it could probably attract enough folks who are drawn by its more contemporary looks, brisk performance, better quality all round or simply just the strength of the Volkswagen badge.
Choosing between one of these therefore, is solely down to personal preference. All things being equal, the Fabia RS tugs at the heart of the keen driver more. The Polo GTI meanwhile, makes for a better long term ownership proposition.
You can't go wrong with either of these if you want a small hatchback that packs a decent punch. The only difference being whether you want it loud and vibrant (Fabia) or subtle and discreet (Polo).
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The purpose of this road test is not to find an outright winner between these two hot hatches, but to see how different two cars can be when the same underpinnings are applied in a similar fashion.
In that respect, it is a surprise that Skoda has managed to make good use of what it has got from its parent, and come up with a car that is reasonably entertaining. And although it doesn't have the pace of most performance hatchbacks, it could probably dice with the best in corners, so credit must be accorded to the Czech automaker.
Comparatively, the Polo GTI seems to appeal to the slightly more mature crowd. It may not be as fun a driving proposition when put against the Fabia, but in many ways, it could probably attract enough folks who are drawn by its more contemporary looks, brisk performance, better quality all round or simply just the strength of the Volkswagen badge.
Choosing between one of these therefore, is solely down to personal preference. All things being equal, the Fabia RS tugs at the heart of the keen driver more. The Polo GTI meanwhile, makes for a better long term ownership proposition.
You can't go wrong with either of these if you want a small hatchback that packs a decent punch. The only difference being whether you want it loud and vibrant (Fabia) or subtle and discreet (Polo).
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Julian Kho
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Car Information
Skoda Fabia RS 1.4 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|16.1km/L
Horsepower
133kW (179 bhp)
Torque
250 Nm
Acceleration
7.3sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Skoda Fabia RSVolkswagen Polo GTI 1.4 TSI 5dr DSG (A)
CAT B|Petrol|17km/L
Horsepower
134kW (180 bhp)
Torque
250 Nm
Acceleration
6.9sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Volkswagen Polo GTI
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