THE 4x4 saloon and estate is now an established part of the British motoring scene, offering extra grip for bad weather motoring and accessing remote places along tracks which would prove too demanding for conventional offerings.

One of the most popular choices is the Skoda Octavia Estate 4x4 which forms part of the third-generation Octavia range from this Czech manufacturer - now part of the VW Group.

The SE version which I drove is powered by the company's 2.0 TDI CR 150ps diesel engine with automatic DSG transmission.

The advanced four-wheel drive system is designed to tackle those challenging conditions that would leave two-wheel drive competitors stranded.

Power distribution is controlled electronically by a fourth-generation Haldex clutch.

Under normal traction conditions, 96% of the total power is directed to the front axle. In adverse weather conditions - similar to those experienced in the UK last winter - the Haldex system reacts in a split second to redirect power to those wheels with better traction, greatly increasing driving safety.

It also has to be remembered that the 4x4's capabilities aren't limited to wintery conditions. In summer months the 4x4 technology will ensure that towing caravans and trailers is easier and safer, and because drive to the rear wheels is disengaged when not required, there's little adverse effect on fuel consumption.

And performance is way up to mark from what you would expect from this car which costs £22,715. Top speed is 132mph and it is quick off the mark too with a 0-62mph sprint of 8.7 seconds.

On the economy front its combined mpg figure is 57.6mpg underlining the fact that modern technology is now capable of making a roomy 4x4 car capable of nearly 60mpg. Something that would have been unheard of some years ago.

And the Octavia certainly proves itself on road because its rail-riding properties inspire confidence and the whole package seems a very safe bet for all-weather driving.

It forms part of the latest Octavia range which builds of the strength of its predecessor- of which 205,000 have been sold in the UK.

Each time Skoda unveils a new model it raises the bar in terms of quality and the Octavia 4x4 is no exception.

With bold design language, a sophisticated road stance and a roomy and classy interior it is, thanks to Volkswagen ownership, light years ahead of the disappointing Skodas of the 1960s and 1970s.

It features the best interior space in its segment and rear cargo space is truly cavernous.

One feature is particularly impressive and that is that elbow room is increased by 39mm in the front and 26mm in the rear. Not much you might think, but it is astonishing what a difference this makes.