SKODA models are known for their smart use of space.

Whether it's the Octavia or Superb, they're Tardis-like in their ability to stretch the inches within the cabin.

This is also true of the new Kodiaq, a seven-sea large SUV that majors on its roomy interior.

The latest, recently launched, version is slightly longer than its predecessor but more significantly, the space between the front and rear wheels has increased, allowing more passenger room

The result is a super-spacious all-purpose family wagon that doesn't break the bank to buy or run. It may not look quite so sleek but it delivers good style.

There's an array of engine choices including hybrid self-charge, plug-in and diesel. We went for possibly the most popular version - the self-charge hybrid 1.5 TSI e-TEC. It might sound like a tall order for a fairly small engine to haul such a substantial vehicle, but the Kodiaq feels lively and nimble and never gets left far behind.

The unit is paired to a dual clutch automatic gearbox which allows smooth changes, though there's a slight delay when instant thrust is required.

Ride and handling are among the best in class with an easy-going gait and relatively soft suspension that help make the Skoda an accomplished long distance mile-gobbler. It's generally fairly quiet, though when worked hard the four cylinder unit becomes a tad harsh. Wind noise is pleasantly subdued, though.

Seats front and rear are supportive and fairly soft. Those in the third row are obviously smaller but perfectly usable for adults on shorter trips. Access is easier than many seven-seaters.

With more than 900 litres of cargo space behind the second row of seats, there's virtually room for the proverbial kitchen sink. The row splits 60-40 and can be moved forwards or backwards depending on your luggage/passenger capacity. There's even decent space behind the final row when a full complement of passengers is onboard.

The cabin is plush and stylish with a large oblong screen set in front of the driver and a 13-inch touchscreen sprouting from the centre of the facia. The gear selector has moved from a central position to a twist stalk to the right of the steering column, while the wiper, washers and rear wipe system has shifted to a left hand stalk - we found the new arrangement less user friendly and a bit more of a fiddle.

Good to see, however, that Skoda is keeping to its ‘simply clever' pledge in providing a secret umbrella hidden in the driver's door and an ice scraper in the petrol filler flap. Good stuff!

Drive the Kodiaq sedately and you'll easily squeeze 40mpg-plus out of the eager 1.5-litre engine. Even pushed hard, our consumption never dropped below 34mpg, a decent result for a large SUV.

The SE L version driven here comes with plenty of goodies - front and rear parking sensors, heated front seats, rear view camera, lane assist and blind spot detection system are all there.