Faults:

Nothing so far.

General Comments:

Performance is adequate for a 1.6 engine and economy is reasonable. However, my Toyota 2 litre Carina - which I still also use - is returning 37 MPG on mixed motoring - has far superior performance - especially torque - and much more comfortable seats at least in the front. The Toyota has never failed me in the two years I have owned it, and the build quality is excellent.

But back to the Skoda - the seat backs are extremely uncomfortable and the gear change rubbery and sometimes obstructive - the Toyota gearchange in comparison feels very positive and precise.

The Skoda though does have a more supple ride quality - but the seat comfort badly compromises this car.

My preference is the Toyota - and although now 10 years old and would be regarded as a banger, it still looks good and delivers the goods in every other area.

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

This car is a cruiser, and makes no pretense otherwise. More 'sporting' drivers will prefer the vRS. It does however handle quite well and have plenty of power.

The 1.8T engine is the same unit that powers the Audi A3/A4 and VW Bora/Passat - 20-valves, variable valve timing and the K03S turbo. It has a smooth delivery with very little lag and provides ample power. Quiet when cruising, it also sounds good when worked hard.

The 4-speed automatic gearbox is smooth and changes quickly, never leaving you stuck in the wrong gear. Gearing is quite long and as a result initial pull-away is quite leisurely, but quickly picks up. This is where the extra 1.5s to 60 is compared to the manuals. 75mph in 2nd gear however means overtaking is effortless and the car feels quick.

The interior is smart and well made - no squeaks or rattles and everything works properly. Road and wind noise are well controlled, and the seats are comfortable.

The Climatronic air-conditioning works extremely well and is a "set and forget" system. It can take a while to cool the car if it has been standing in the sun though.

Other features such as cruise control and parking sensors work very well.

It is hard for me to fault this car, especially at the price.