THERE was a time when it seemed the leading contenders in the 4x4 market didn’t have any more mountains to climb.

For a time they ruled the roost, shrugging off feeble challengers – only for a whole new generation of 4x4s to emerge and take an increasing share of the proverbial sales cake. And the newcomers not only sold to farmers and country folk but in greater numbers to all sorts of motorists who fancied and vehicle to match their wellingtons and waterproofs or take the children to school in the country style.

A recent arrival is Skoda’s Octavia Scout, a 4x4 that has the perfect trappings for the family. It is not only a very competent and stylish vehicle but priced to compete with the opposition.

It costs £17,755 for the petrol 2.0 FSi and £19,690 for the 2.0 turbo diesel.

The Scout comes in estate form with excellent practicality and with the sort of running and servicing costs that makes a lot of sense during these times of high fuel prices.

Skoda, who operate under the wing of the giant Volkswagen group, have acquired a name for reliability, quality and value and this is embodied in the Scout.

The 2.0-litre turbo diesel will be the favourite choice. It pushes out 140bhp to produce a healthy 236 lb ft of torque or pulling power - just what is needed when the going gets tough.

But the petrol is also an excellent car with 150bhp, a 6-speed gearbox and is a good deal cheaper. While it doesn’t have the torque of the diesel, it sprints faster from 0-62mph and has loads of power for rapid overtaking.

The very first time I used the Scout was to pull a large trailer. The petrol motor was more than man enough for the job with steep hills causing no problems while the car’s firm suspension ensured a smooth and controlled ride.

The Scout is the latest version of the Octavia 4x4 and has a new, more sophisticated off road set up that detects slip and quickly summons up extra grip to the affected wheel. Otherwise the Scout operates with front wheel drive.

Helping its composure is stability control along while Hill Hold Control that makes for easy starting on hills. An automatic brake disc drying system is also a useful safety idea after going through wet or flooded places.

The Scout is different to the Octavia 4x4 in other ways. The beefed up suspension increases ground clearance, there are new bumpers, under-body protection plates and slightly wider wheel arches.

in some ways it’s better specified, too, with the availability of leather trim, two-zone climate control, bigger alloy wheels and cruise control.

On the road, the Scout gives a firm but composed and comfortable ride. You’ll like the slightly higher and more commanding view from the driver’s seat and the firm feel of the steering which lets you know exactly what the front wheels are up to.

The steering is also very communicative off road and while the sturdy Scout will handle some pretty uneven terrain it won’t go mud-plugging to the same extend as a 4x4 with a separate transfer gearbox designed for off-road activity.

Back on the straight and smooth, the petrol Scout’s top speed is 124mph with the 0-62mph spring is done in 10 seconds.

In diesel form the Scout averaged 44.1mpg, helped also by a smooth 6-speed manual gearbox, while the petrol engine returns 32.5mpg.

Inside, the Scout is typical of the VW group, being very orderly and with a range of materials and 4x4 embellishments. It’s well built inside and out.

The rear seating is roomy and there is loads of space in the boot area which can be extended considerably with the rear seats down.

It is easy to see why do-it-all vehicles like the Scout are so popular. They are rugged enough for rural life yet still return the affordability of a car, as distinct from an SUV.

More new compact 4x4s are being launched this year. Volvo promise a five-seat XC60 with powerful petrol and diesel engines, Ford will have the Kuga and Renault the Koleos, both with diesel motors.

At-a-glance Skoda Octavia Scout 4x4 2.0 FSi 6-speed.

Price: £17,755.

Top speed: 124mph.

0-62mph: 10 seconds.

Fuel: 32.5mpg (combined figure).

Emissions (g/km): 207.

Verdict: Strong performance, fine handling, practical, and well built.rs.