Indeed, the Skoda Rapid does not even fit the sector’s conventions, for at 4.48m overall it is half a size up on them all.

The most sensible, high mileage company car user case is made – just  – by the diesel in SE trim level, at  £17,100 on the road. CO2 emissions are not spectacularly low at 114g/km, nor indeed is the “C” band VED charge or even the current 16% per cent company car tax rating.

But economy is good at 64.2mpg, P11D price unassuming, and performance adequately brisk thanks to meaty low-down torque. Things will also improve in mid-2013 with the launch of a range of “GreenLine” versions fitted with engine stop/start and other eco-goodies which will bring CO2 emissions as low as 106g/km – although still not enough to drop the Rapid into zero VAT, congestion charge territory.

• Good economy, modest pricing and brisk performance add up to a very competitive company car

On the road, the Rapid is relaxed and undemanding to drive until pushed – when clear differences of behaviour emerge between the 85bhp petrol model also tested briefly and the almost 100kg (mainly nose-) heavier diesel.

The petrol unit spins over happily with refinement at high revs and retains a fair degree of agility in harder driver. The diesel can’t quite match either, emitting some relatively unrefined grumbles of protest should it be so asked.

Skoda chief designer Josef Kaban’s crisply styled and ergonomically efficient cabin, however, is a distinctly pleasant place to be.

The Skoda Rapid looks smart and bodes well for the next-generation, equally all-new and larger Octavia range which will slot in above the Rapid from the middle of next year.

It is also expected to become, and has the credentials to be, Skoda’s K best-seller, thus playing a big hand in helping Skoda meet its highly ambitious UK sales growth targets – and providing company car drivers with an economical and efficient car to drive.

Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI CR SE 105PS DPF – the low down