Its looks maybe somewhat bland, but the Skoda Rapid offers better value for money than many of its competitors and would be a good choice of family car.

Five engines are on offer in the hatchback that is designed to look like a saloon – four petrol and one diesel, and there are three trims – S, SE and Elegance.

More efficient GreenTech models and another diesel option will be available later this year. As you might expect, equipment levels are generous, with all models featuring remote central locking, daytime running lights, a rake/reach adjustable steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and electric front windows.

The SE trim adds 15-inch alloy wheels, body coloured door mirrors and handles, air-conditioning, a Maxi-dot trip computer, a MDI (Mobile Device Interface), a leather steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity.

Range-topping Elegance models benefit from 16-inch alloys, cornering front fog lamps, cruise control, a height-adjustable passenger seat, rear electric windows, chrome interior detailing and a four spoke multi-functional steering wheel.

Inside is a simple and clear layout. Practicality is generally a key priority for Skoda – and this is certainly no bad thing.

The car offers a class-leading 550 litres of luggage space, a load area that can be extended to 1,490 litres.

The boot also contains bag hooks and storage boxes behind the rear wheel arches, and comes with the option of a clever double-faced floor carpet. This allows owners to switch between a carpet or rubber boot floor, according to what they’re carrying. Turn it rubber side up for muddy boots, and flip it back to carpet for suitcases and shopping bags. Another clever touch is the addition of a warning-vest holder under the front seat. As many European countries now require drivers to have reflective vests kept inside the car, this is a particularly useful feature for those wanting to venture further afield.

Occupant safety and comfort were paramount in the design and engineering of the Rapid, and standard equipment includes driver, passenger, head and side airbags, as well as ABS and ESP.

It was a comfortable drive, although there was more road noise than I expected at speed and the position of the armrest makes using the handbrake a bit awkward. After years of being wary of electronic handbrakes, I think I actually prefer them now.

All Rapid models feature a three-year/ 60,000-mile warranty as standard.

Fact File:
Car:
Skoda Rapid Elegance
On the road: £17,850
Top speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 10.6 seconds
Fuel: 64.2mpg (combined)
CO2 emissions: 114g/km