Skoda has just launched its new Fabia estate and it has everything going for it.

It is a solid, reliable vehicle, particularly well-priced - the only two rivals in this sector are Peugeot 207SW and the soon-to-arrive Renault Clio Estate.

The Peugeot might give Skoda a run for their money and provide some sort of competition, but if this was race I can't see the Renault getting off the blocks.

The Fabia is growing in size and is building on the success of its predecessor (launched in 2001), of which over 630,000 were sold worldwide (31,000 in the UK).

However, the second generation Fabia Estate delivers even more practicality, even more refinement, and even better value for money.

The boot space has been increased, along with the rear headroom, and the maximum load capacity has risen by around 15 per cent. You could easily get enough groceries for a family of four for a month in the back.

Like the hatch, the new estate is available with six engines: three petrol and three diesel. All are highly-efficient, clean and generate between 70bhp and 105bhp. Emission levels are low, with the 1.4-litre TDI 80bhp emitting just 120g/km of C02.

The estate is only 15kg heavier than the hatch, which means it enjoys the same driving dynamics, with a good ride quality and a positive steering.

I drove up and down one piece of road a number of times. There were plenty of bends and climbs and it was impossible to fault the car's performance. It stuck to the road despite pretty damp conditions.

Sales in the UK started a couple of weeks ago and are expected to top 4,000 units this year. The best selling model is likely to be the 1.9 TDI (105bhp).

All models are fitted with power steering, twin front and side airbags, and central locking. An adjustable steering wheel is fitted as standard, along with a height-adjustable driver's seat and electric front windows.

Other standard equipment includes a 60/40 split rear seat, a passenger airbag de-activation switch and an integrated CD player, which features a 3.5mm jack input for iPods or other MP3 players.

The petrol range starts with a 1.2-litre and fuel economy on the EU combined cycle is 47.9mpg. Further up the petrol range is a punchy 1.4-litre which can return 43.5mpg and the most powerful petrol engine available is a 1.6-litre, 16-valve unit which will give you 40.9mpg.

The Fabia Estate diesel range consists of a 1.4-litre engine with two power outputs and a range-topping 1.9-litre.

Their miles per gallon figures are quite staggering - 67.3; 70.6 and 68.9 for the 1.9.

Best of all, prices start at £9,360 for entry-level and go up to £13,775 for the Level 3 1.9 diesel.

l To test drive a Skoda Fabia Estate, go to Fish Brothers Skoda on Paddington Drive, Swindon, or call 01793 645604.