FOR what is billed as a small city car the Skoda Fabia is very big on space, value and appeal.

With enough room for four adults - five at a squeeze - the five-door model is packed with techno treats and the Monte Carlo edition I tried really looked the part too.

It featured 17-inch black alloys, smoked headlights, body-coloured door handles and tinted glass. The paintwork contrasted smartly with the black door mirrors, wheel arches, windows surrounds, roof, tailgate spoiler and side pillars.

The interior is neatly designed with sports seats, air conditioning with pollen filter, electric front windows, a double glovebox, a good sound system which is compatible with most modern-day devices and a multi-function leather steering wheel with red stitching.

There is a simplistic feel to the Fabia although it doesn't come across as cheap in any way.

The driver has a nice high seated position which results in excellent all-round visibility and even back seat passengers have plenty of space to stretch out.

The boot is generously sized too for a city car and capacity can be increased further thanks to split-folding rear seats.

In and around town, the Fabia is a pleasure to drive as it weaves effortlessly through the crowds. And the excellent visibility together with the vehicle's compact dimensions means parking is no problem either.

Then, out on the faster roads, the 1.6-litre diesel-powered engine delivers ample get-up-and-go as it works through the five-speed manual transmission. I did find on a couple of occasions that I was looking for a non-existent sixth gear, but that aside, the car coped admirably.

Cabin noise is fairly quiet and the ride is nice and comfortable for all occupants.

Another really impressive factor regarding the Skoda Fabia is the combined fuel efficiency of 67.3mpg which means trips to the filling pumps will be few and far between.

The Fabia has plenty of safety specifications, including anti-lock brakes, electronic brake control, numerous airbags and plenty more besides.

All in all, the Skoda Fabia is quite a catch. It looks good, handles well and the very reasonable asking price of £15,190 will even leave you on speaking terms with your bank manager.