Škoda Fabia review: what the car critics say

Like the Polo, Seat Ibiza and Audi A1, this fourth-generation Fabia sits on VW’s MQB-AO platform, said The Daily Telegraph. It is more aerodynamic and economic than its predecessor, putting it on a par with Hyundai’s i20 mild hybrid, but without the electric assistance. The Fabia has four options for its 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine; the base level one has a Group 2E insurance rating, making it a brilliant first car.

The weedy entry-level 1.0 MPI 80 engine takes more than 15 seconds to get from 0-62mph, so is best suited to a dedicated town driver, What Car? said. Suspension is good for a small car, but it does pitch about. Steering is light and accurate, which makes it an easy car to drive deftly on city roads; it’s a quieter cruise than the Ford Fiesta or Seat Ibiza, and there’s plenty of grip – but there is also a fair bit of body roll.

It’s been given sharper styling inside and out, said Auto Express. The cabin has relatively high-end materials and a clear dashboard. Standard kit includes a DAB radio, LED headlights, Bluetooth and a 6.5-inch colour display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus air con. With an extra 111mm in length, the cabin is more spacious than before, with good leg- and headroom; and boot space is now a very decent 380 litres. Price: from £14,460.