You have not said what engine is in the Skoda. If it is the 1.6 i'd avoid it as this i would be the unit at the centre of the 'dieselgate' fiasco. Even ignoring that, that engine doesn't have a great reputation. If it is a 2.0, assuming it has a manual gearbox, it should be OK. Same goes for the Ford, as both of them, in auto form, would use a dual clutch automated manual, which don't have a great reputation for long term reliability.

Other cars you should be looking at?. First thing that would be on my list would be the previous shape Honda Civic estate. This is one of a few modern diesel engines which does not seem to suffer from emissions equipment related issues. It is very spacious, very economical, very reliable, comfortable and refined. Look for SE spec or above.

Kia Ceed, you have not given a price, but looking at the likely price of the two cars you mention, a Ceed of a similar value could have as much as 6 years manufacturers warranty left (out of the 7 it had from new). Just make sure the servicing has been done by a Kia dealer.

Both are excellent, versatile cars but as BadBusDriver said, you need to be careful about which engine and gearbox you choose. Automatic gearboxes in both of these cars have reliability issues. But if you're going for a manual gearbox, those have no problems.

I had a Mondeo IV estate (pretty much the same model as you are looking at) with the 2 litre diesel engine for 3 years and it was a great car. Nothing went wrong, comfortable and fun to drive. It also swallowed all the clobber needed for a family holiday with 2 small kids easily.

With both the Skoda and Ford, there are LOADS of them around so be choosey and shop around - another car WILL come along, don't be pressured into feeling that a car you're looking at is the last-chance saloon.

I agree entirely - this depends on what engines are involved - but generally be wary of a car that's covered such a low annual mileage as the Mondeo has. It could have been used for a lot of short journeys which can lead to premature wear. And is it a long way from your home?

Also, decide whether you need petrol or diesel - the latter is suitable only for high annual mileages because of problems with diesel particulate filters if you do a lot of short trips. Be prepared to spend more time looking if neither of these two is ideal.