Our verdict

The Skoda is the clear winner here. It’s not perfect – there are cars with a better ride and handling compromise in this class (namely the Ford Fiesta), just as there are cars with classier interiors (try the VW Polo), and the new Jazz certainly beats all comers for space and practicality. 

However, in this class of car, the Fabia is the best blend of function, comfort and cost. It’s sweet to drive, roomy inside, and cheap to buy and run, too, no matter how you’re paying.

The Seat is slightly less comfortable but slightly more fun, and its engine is perfect for this sort of car, being impressively efficient yet energetic from low revs. However, you’ll want to avoid the Ibiza if you value rear passenger comfort or boot space, and it’s missing some of the convenience and safety kit that many would consider the bare minimum these days.

The Jazz is a really decent car despite coming last here. It has quite remarkable interior space and versatility, is dynamically more than fit for purpose, and, while it’s expensive, it comes with properly ‘big car’ levels of equipment. However, in this ever hard-fought class, it needs a more efficient and more refined engine, lower PCP costs and a better driving position if it’s to be considered one of the best rather than just recommendable.

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1st - Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI 90 SE

ForSpacious and good to drive, smooth engine, low costs

Against Slightly firm low-speed ride, less practical boot than the Jazz

Verdict Remains easily the best all-rounder in this class

Rated 5 out of 5

Find a great Skoda Fabia deal

2nd - Seat Ibiza 1.0 EcoTSI 95 SE

For Sweet engine; cheap company car; economical

Against Mediocre practicality and safety equipment

Verdict Enjoyable, but Fabia is better on most counts

Rated 3 out of 5

Find a great Seat Ibiza deal

3rd - Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC SE

For Outstanding practicality; masses of kit; gearshift

Against Noisy; driving position; engine needs revving

Verdict Plenty to like if you can get comfortable

Rated 3 out of 5

Find a great Honda Jazz deal

Specifications: Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC SE

Engine size 1.3-litre petrol

Price from £13,645

Power 101bhp

Torque 91lb ft

0-62mph 11.7 seconds

Top speed 118mph

Fuel economy 48.7mpg

CO2 116g/km

Specifications: Seat Ibiza 1.0 EcoTSI 95 SE

Engine size 1.0-litre petrol

Price from £9995

Power 94bhp

Torque 118lb ft

0-60mph 10.7 seconds

Top speed 119mph

Fuel economy 52.2mpg

CO2 94g/km

Specifications: Skoda Fabia 1.2 TSI 90 SE

Engine size 1.2-litre petrol

Price from £11,155

Power 89bhp

Torque 118lb ft

0-60mph 10.9 seconds

Top speed 113mph

Fuel economy 44.9mpg

CO2 107g/km

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