Welcome to drive the debate

Pleasant and smooth to drive, comfortable with nice build quality, feels like a bigger car than it is, cheap insurance

Underpowered, shaky cold starting when damp, petrol cap won't shut, Skoda badges have fallen off (badge snobs might want to put this under 'pros')

The best value car I've ever bought. Modern looks, good build quality, reliable (so far), surprising and smooth 'big car' feel to drive, and all for much less money than a same-age Polo. Would make a great first car. Mine seems underpowered, but it may only be because the previous owner didn't service it properly. Despite this, the Fabia's still going strong!