Isomerization catalyst and processes for selectively upgrading a paraffinic feedstock to an isoparaffin-rich product

An isomerization catalyst and process is disclosed to selectively upgrade a paraffinic feedstock to obtain an isoparaffin-rich product for blending into gasoline. The catalyst comprises a support of a tungstated oxide or hydroxide of a Group IVB (IUPAC 4) metal (wherein the element of Group IVB (IUPAC 4) preferably is zirconium), a first component selected from the group consisting of at least one lanthanide series element, yttrium or mixtures thereof, which is preferably ytterbium or holmium, and a second component comprising at least one platinum-group metal component which is preferably platinum.