AN estate version of the Skoda Fabia will be available to British fleets from March next year. Its wheelbase remains the same as the hatchback at 2,462mm, but the estate is 262mm longer overall, giving it about a 20% increase in luggage capacity.

The five-door car will make its world debut at the Paris Motor Show. Trims and engine options are expected to be the same as those in the hatchback range: Classic, Comfort and Elegance; 1.4-litre 68bhp and 1.4-litre 100bhp petrol and 1.9-litre SDI 64bhp and 1.9-litre TDI 100bhp diesel units. Prices will be announced closer to launch.