SKODA, the budget car which was once the butt of acid-tongued comedians, has shown dozens of smarter cars where to get off.

The Czech brand which has for several years been part of the VW group has taken third place in the latest satisfaction poll in Auto Express.

The magazine says it is the most important survey of its kind because it is based on the views of ordinary motorists rather than 'experts'.

The public decided that the Fabia (pictured right), costing from £7,935 new, is the best 'ordinary' car we can buy.

The only ones to beat it are the Porsche Boxster (£31,000) and a posh BMW 5 Series.

The verdict comes at a crucial time for Skoda. Later this month, it will put on sale its latest model, a large, swish, upmarket saloon called the Superb, but still at a Skoda price. It starts at £14,200 and you can read more about it here next week.

Meanwhile, the Fabia won high ratings from motorists for its smooth ride and comfort, build quality and practicality. "This is a very accomplished car, and there's no sign of badge snobbery," says the magazine.

"With the Polo well below the Fabia, why should small hatch buyers look any further?"

The verdicts were based on hundreds of replies, in some cases thousands. The Skoda beats a collection of luxury cars including the Lexus IS200, (at No 5), the Rover 75 (at 6), Mercedes E Class (at 7) and an Audi A2.

And another Skoda, the Octavia, comes in at No 9. Both are rated higher than a Jaguar X Type, a Volvo 850 or BMW 3 Series.

Auto Express gives its wooden spoon to No 100 Peugeot's ageing 106. It did well for razor-sharp agility, but came last for comfort and performance.