I didn't tell the neighbours that this was a Skoda - and they didn't ask. Nor would they. Who would guess this smartly-styled little supermini to be a product of a Czech manufacturer once known only for cheap and cheerful A to B transport? This second generation Fabia is much, much more than that. Certainly, it's a step forward from any compact car the Czech company has ever produced before.

Though used to a larger car, I could certainly consider this surprising little Skoda, for five can be seated in reasonable comfort. In my week with the car, everyone commented on how spacious it felt. Skoda claim more rear knee and headroom than any rival, helped by the fact that the Fabia is 22mm longer and 47mm taller than the model it replaces. The rather spartan feel is the only real criticism I would make of an interior that is otherwise a class above most other offerings in this sector. Still, forget the plasticky feel of previous Skodas: the materials used are of the highest quality, even on the entry-level '1' models. Pricier '2' and '3 variants have lovely Audi-esque touches and you also get lots of extra storage bins. The boot's a useful shape (offering 1163 litres with the seats down), with 60/40 access through the split-folding rear bench and sturdy luggage hooks for securing awkward loads. Front side airbags are optional and parents get Isofix mounting points in the rear for the latest child seats. At the front, every Fabia gets rake and reach adjustment for the airbag-equipped steering wheel and there's driver's seat height adjustment. Which means that just about everyone should be able to get comfortable. That chunky styling means a boxy shape that offers good headroom, even for those in the rear. And that in turn contributes to a general feeling of spaciousness. Equipment levels were never the Fabia's strong point, relying instead on solid no-nonsense build quality. This time round there are items like electronically-controlled Climatronic air-conditioning and an MP3/iPod compatible stereo but if you go to your Skoda dealer expecting to be granted a view of the state-of-the-art in small car electronics, you're likely to be disappointed. Unimpeachable build quality, on the other hand, you can take for granted.

The latest model carries over some of the engines from the old Fabia line-up and improves some of the others. With four petrol units and three diesels available, there's no shortage of choice. The petrol range kicks off with the three-cylinder 1.2-litre HTP engine, developing 60bhp. The next step up is the 70bhp 1.2HTP 12v, followed by the 85bhp 1.4 16v. A 1.6-litre 16v engine is also offered with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox option. The trio of diesel engines starts with two 1.4-litre TDI units in either 70 or 80bhp guises with a 1.9-litre TDI that's good for 105bhp at the top of the range. On the road, the handling is tuned to please the family driver rather than the enthusiast - which is understandable given Skoda's likely clientele. Expect it to ride and respond with all the quality of a VW Golf and you won't be disappointed. There are no throttle cables: your right foot impulses are communicated via a 'drive-by-wire' throttle. Five years ago, you found this technology on F1 cars: now you find it on Skodas. Who would have thought it?

In summary, this second generation Fabia may not be as cheap as small Skodas of the past but it's still cheaper than all its main rivals. And better in many ways, with space, safety and build quality all class-leading. Czech mate? I thought so.