SKODA'S entry into the SUV market with its much awaited Kodiaq will be one of the highlights of next week's Paris Motor Show.

The Czech manufacturer's take on this looks to be a similar size to it's family mate at Audi, the Q5, but promises to have the largest boot space in its class and will come with the option of having seven-seats.

From the outset is will have a choice of two diesel engines and three petrols, with two or four-wheel-drive versions choices.

As you would expect, the diesels are based on the VW-sourced 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit in two forms, 148bhp and 187bhp. The petrols are a 1.4-litre with 123bhp plus another of the same size tuned up to 148bhp and a 2.0-litre delivering 177bhp.

Four-wheel-drive is only available on the most powerful diesels and petrols, as is the highly thought of seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox. However, the 148bhp 1.4 petrol can get a six-speed DSG or a six-speed manual in four-wheel-drive versions, or just the DSG with front-drive. The one model with front-wheel drive and a standard manual gearbox is the entry-level petrol.

You can expect the powerful diesel to hit 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds, though the high-powered petrol does the same timed run in 7.8 seconds.

Four-wheel-drive Kodiaqs will get a driving mode control, which will have a 'dial a terrain' action, including hill descent control.

Its luggage credentials are in a class of their own, as in the five-seater – the second row can move forwards and backwards by up to 18cm, which is standard across the range – the boot capacity can be up to 720 litres. With the seats lowered, a pretty huge 2065 litres of space is available.

Though not official yet, it is expected that the range will start at about £23,000. First UK deliveries will be in early 2017.

Future plans include a luxury version, plus a more sporty one featuring the VW 240bhp twin-turbo diesel engine.