I am also trying to pick between the Skoda and Civic. I am leaning towards the CIVIC. It is a newer model and a Japanese model would any day run circles around an East European model. I have owned 2 other Honda cars and both have been excellent. I do not have along commute to work so fuel cost is not a major criteria for me. However, if you have a lot of driving to do you may want to consider your savings in fuel cost between the two.