THE VW group's 1.6 TDI diesel engine has been uprated and is now a much more worthy contender.

The power output is the same, but in the Skoda Rapid Spaceback, I found it had more low speed pulling power, giving better acceleration in all five gears.

It's also smoother than it used to be even though it still grumbles a little if asked to go too low in the gears.

The Spaceback is basically a five seat estate, and I wouldn't buy a Ford Focus before trying one - I think most people would be very tempted.

It is comfortable over all surfaces, tending towards softer suspension, but that doesn't seem to affect the level of grip and roadholding, which is superb.

It has a great feel of safety through the corners, and clings on despite some roll.

Economy was superb, with the fuel gauge hardly moving in a whole week, but it does take a whopping eight years to pay off the cost difference between petrol and diesel models.