PRICES and specifications have been revealed for the eagerly-awaited new performance flagship of the Skoda SUV range.

Order books have now opened for the range-topping Kodiaq vRS with prices starting from £42,870. First deliveries are expected in early Spring.

Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last year, it is the most powerful diesel production vRS model ever built by the Czech company. Powered by a twin turbocharged two-litre engine mated to four-wheel-drive via a seven-speed DSG gearbox it can sprint from 0-62mph in just seven seconds and has a top speed of 136mph.

Dynamic Chassis Control and progressive steering are fitted as standard.

With cabin space for seven it will be practical as well as quick and will stand out from the SUV crowd with 20-inch alloy wheels, gloss black finish on the grille and mirrors, dual exhaust pipes, vRS sports bumpers and trademark red brake calipers.

Inside, standard kit includes figure-hugging Alcantara-trimmed sports seats finished with contrast vRS stitching and logo, along with a black rooflining and vRS stitching for the door panels. The vRS is also the first ŠKODA to be offered with a fully digital virtual cockpit display as standard.