Smart buys: used JD Power winners - Small family car

Skoda Octavia
Price range £4000-£20,000
Years 2004-present
You'll like... Build quality; ride and handling
You won't... Shortage of safety kit
Average economy 35.8mpg-53.3mpg
Insurance group 4-7
Road tax £140-£210

Forget the old jokes about Skoda - these cars are now shrewd buys.

The Octavia is based on the current VW Golf, so it's good to drive, but it isn't anywhere near as expensive as the Golf.

There are lots of high-mileage diesels for sale, but independent garages usually have a good selection of well-priced cars.

We spotted one...
Skoda Octavia 1.9 TDI Ambiente 5dr - '05/05, 30,000 miles, £5995