The Felicia was an early sign of what was to come from Skoda under Volkswagen ownership. It marked a step up in quality and image for the Czech car maker.
Based on the chided Favorit, the Felicia got an all-new interior, new running gear to accommodate Volkswagen engines and a much needed hike in build quality. It was also 40mm longer and 15mm wider.
The 1.3 GLXi launch model used the Favorit’s eight-valve pushrod four-pot and slightly notchy five-speed manual, but urgent throttle response enabled decent urban progress. The engine was raucous over 5000rpm, but early torque delivery limited the need to reach for such heights. The brakes (front discs, rear drums) performed well but lacked ABS.
Front struts and a rear twist beam served up fairly flat and composed handling, while skinny tyres gripped well. The Skoda was no match for French hatches on twisty roads, though, largely due to feel-free, inconsistently weighted steering. Ride quality was good, with only sharp bumps upsetting the chassis. Interior ergonomics, comfort and materials impressed, as did its passably modern dash design. Cabin space was good, too.
For Low price, tidy handling, cabin space, comfy ride
Against Noisy engine, no airbag, heavy steering
What happened next?
New engines from Volkswagen were soon introduced, consisting of a 75bhp 1.6-litre petrol and a 63bhp 1.9 diesel. Modern safety staples such as airbags and ABS came later, too, as did an estate bodystyle. The Felicia sold well in the UK thanks to its competitive pricing, especially among lowerspec models. It was replaced in 2001 by the Fabia, which used a Volkswagen Group platform.
Factfile
Price £7699
Engine 4 cyls in line, 1289cc, petrol
Power 68bhp at 5500rpm
Torque 74lb ft at 3750rpm
0-60mph 13.5sec
0-100mph na
Standing quarter mile 19.4sec, 71mph
Top speed 97mph
Economy 35.7mpg
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The Felicia was a big step up for Skoda and it was easy to see how VW had improved this model over the outgoing Favorit, I had a base model Felicia Estate for three years and it was reliable well built and very spacious,the only gripe I had was that the steering was heavy and the seats were hard but for the money it was an excellent workhorse