Interesting fact: Skoda is the only car maker that’s allowed to use the words Monte Carlo on its models, on account of the success of the Popular in the 1936 rally to the famous principality.
Not one to miss out on a marketing opportunity, Skoda created the first Fabia Monte Carlo in 2011, and now it’s back again. Spoiler alert: this isn’t a vRS-lite edition, despite the location and brand association.
Changes include a reprofiled front bumper, a mock rear diffuser, plenty of de rigueur black trim bits and 17in alloys with detachable aero elements.
The 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine is the most powerful available in the new Fabia and possible only with this trim (although you can also get a 1.0-litre Monte Carlo). Power and torque run to 148bhp and 184lb ft for a competitive 8.0sec 0-62mph time.