THE Scots are not renowned for their passion for cars.

However, it would appear that they can spot a good car when they see one, as the new Skoda Fabia vRS was last month crowned Diesel Car of the Year 2003 at the Scottish Car of the Year Awards.

Clearly, the Scottish Motoring Writers, who cast the votes, were impressed by the 1.9 TDI PD diesel engine, offering 130 bhp.

As sensible consumers, they could also have been attracted by the £11,990 price tag and 55.4 mpg (combined).

I suspect, though, that it was a combination of all these factors that led to the vRS' success, which is being repeated on the forecourts.

Motorland in Basingstoke, which supplied the vRS for this test-drive, says that demand is so high the cars are being sold as fast as they come in.

This popularity is not surprising as the vRS offers the performance of a sporty petrol-driven car combined with the economy of a diesel. Its powerful acceleration, hearty brakes and responsive steering make for an exhilarating ride.

As a result, there is very little that can compete with it at such a rock-bottom price.

However, there are a few things about the vRS that have to be taken along with the sporty looks, performance and value for money.

Firstly, it is a diesel. And while it may be miles away from the stereotypical noisy tank, you are still faced with that repellent grumble as the engine idles. This, though, dies down as the revs pick up, although it is replaced by a surprising amount of road noise.

Secondly, the interior is a mixed bag. While the display and seats offer a touch of style, as does the sports steering wheel, the majority of the interior is clunky plastic. Although the addition of a CD player and electric windows compensate to a degree.

Overall, though, these few gripes mean little when you consider that, at under £12,000, the Skoda Fabia vRS is miles ahead of its rivals.

From now on, I will listen far more intently when I ask a Scot what he's driving.

For more information on the Skoda Fabia, call Motorland on 01256 811111.