NO one could ever consider the Skoda Fabia as being the most exhilarating car on the market.

However, for practicality, economy, reliability and comfort, then the second-generation of the Czech marque's small family hatch which first appeared in 2007 proved a hard act to beat from day one.

Bigger and better in every way when compared with the original model, it allowed four adults to travel in total comfort, while the split-folding rear seat could even accommodate three adults at a push.

Three petrol engines were initially available, starting with the three-cylinder 1.2-litre unit which came in either 60bhp or 70bhp guise.

However, despite their modest outputs, these little powerplants packed plenty of punch and were actually really well suited for the car, especially when running around town. 

With its class-leading assets, the then new Fabia proved a joy when taken out in the busy congested steets of our urban jungles. On more demanding B-roads it steered and cornered sharply, although it did suffer from a small degree of body roll.

But you really couldn't fault the ride and it took those potholes and lumps in the road in its stride, offering occupants a comfortable environment throughout, while the driver could revel with the car's light, yet nicely balanced steering which gave great feedback.

The Fabia also came with a level of refinement normally reserved for more expensive vehicles. Alarm, immobiliser, air conditioning, alloy wheels, CD sound system with MP3 connection, electric front windows and heated mirrors all came as standard, while climate control, cruise control and rear parking sensors were some of the options also available.

Equally at home on the back roads as in busy city traffic, the fab little Fabia came into its own when long-distance cruising. Quiet and stable even when driving in blustery conditions, there was little hint of wind and road noise encroaching into the cabin.

The mid-range three-cylinder 70bhp 1.2-litre HTP proved a pretty competent machine which returned a combined fuel-consumption figure up in the high 40s.

As expected, performance figures were never going to be exceptional considering the size of the car and the size of the engine, but with 82lb/ft of torque on tap, it really did put in an effort and could reach 62mph from standing in 15 seconds and on to a top speed of 101mph.

However, for those requiring a little more oomph, Skoda also offered a 1.4-litre 85bhp and a 1.6-litre 105bhp petrol-powered engine pairing. Diesel lovers were also catered for with two 1.4-litre units of 70 and 80bhp along with Skoda's well-acclaimed 1.9-litre 105bhp engine.

Prices and equipment levels throughout offered great value for money, while there was a model suitable for everyone looking to maximise the most out of their budget.

Expect to pay around £3,500 for a well-cared-fo 2007, 57-plate 1.2-litre petrol model in mid-range 2 trim, rising to around £4,000 for a newer 2008, 08-plate example. 

Move on to a 2010, 60-plate in revised but similar specification SE trim and you will have to pay between £4,850 and £6,500 depending on condition and mileage.