Skoda has released three new sketches giving the first glimpse of the next generation Fabia Monte Carlo, the top-of-the-line version of the company's newly-relaunched supermini.
Back to black
Judging by the sketches, the Monte Carlo is set to have a slightly more upmarket look than the standard Fabia, with small visual exterior tweaks such as a revised front apron and a black grille surround. Black accents seem to be the main distinguishing features of the Monte Carlo's exterior with the door mirror caps, window frames, side skirts and the rear spoiler all finished in black, along with the Skoda lettering on the tailgate and the rear diffuser. Another small distinguishing feature is the Monte Carlo badging on the front wings.
Black again
It's much the same inside with an interior that the company itself describes as "predominantly black", although there are red touches, for example on the seat covers, horizontal dashboard trim, centre console and door handles. There are also carbon fibre elements on the arm rests and the lower part of the instrument panel. Next to the three-spoke leather steering wheel is a central touchscreen - likely the 9.5-inch unit found in other Fabias.
What to expect from the Fabia Monte Carlo
Although we've plenty of information about the new fourth-generation Fabia, Skoda hasn't released many details just yet about the Monte Carlo, except to say that it'll be unveiled in February and arrive a few months after. A few things can be surmised though.
Further down the range, 65hp and 80hp versions of the Fabia's 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine are available, but higher spec models get the same engine in turbocharged 95hp and 110hp guises, the latter of which probably being what'll be found under the bonnet of the Monte Carlo and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed DSG automatic. There'll likely also be the option of a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine boasting 150hp as found elsewhere in the Skoda line-up. Regrettably, Skoda says that a Fabia Combi estate isn't on the cards this time.
Expect high levels of equipment too such as 18-inch alloys, keyless entry and ignition, the aforementioned 9.5-inch touchscreen, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, rear parking sensors, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility and probably a few more goodies. Interestingly, the latest Fabia sees boot space increased by 50 litres over the old model, with the new one standing at 380 litres - exactly the same as the bigger Volkswagen Golf.
While pricing hasn't been announced yet, given that a Style spec model fitted with the automatic gearbox is priced at €25,750, the Monte Carlo should start somewhere north of that point.