Following last month’s preview, Skoda has
released new photos and a video of its all-new Octavia Scout, along with full
information on the jacked-up estate. There’s plenty to talk about, including
the fact that the Octavia Scout is available with front-wheel drive for the
first time. Customers can have a FWD Octavia Scout with two engines: a 115 PS 2.0-liter TDI and a 150 PS 1.5-liter TSI – both mated to a
six-speed manual transmission.
The petrol engine is also available as an
E-Tec mild-hybrid unit featuring a 7-speed DSG. For those who want the full
package, Skoda offers the Octavia Scout with standard all-wheel drive in
combination with two diesel engines and a petrol unit. Regardless of the
powertrain, the Octavia Scout is only available in the Combi (Estate) body
style.
The range-topping power plant is a new
EVO-generation 2.0-liter TDI rated at 200 PS and 400 Nm of
torque. It’s the most powerful diesel engine ever fitted to a Skoda Octavia.
Customers can also have a 150 PS 2.0-liter TDI or a 2.0-liter TSI
making 190 PS. All three engines feature a seven-speed DSG gearbox and
AWD as standard.
Speaking of the all-wheel-drive system, it
features a sixth-generation electronically controlled multi-plate clutch with
an integrated ECU, reduced bearing preload and refined internal lubrication
thanks to low-friction oil. 0.8 kg lighter than its predecessor, the
new clutch is said to enable “very low fuel consumption,” even during 4×4
operation.
When coasting at low load or when
traveling in a straight line, power is generally sent to the front axle. When
the driving situation requires it, the rear axle is activated to generate
additional traction. The optional Off-Road mode offered as part of Driving Mode
Select, is said to provide even better driving performance on rough terrain.
All Skoda Octavia Scout models feature a
Rough-Road package as standard, which includes underbody protection and 15 mm more ground clearance. Besides the higher ride height, the Octavia
Scout can be recognized thanks to the distinct bumpers with aluminum-look
underbody protection, black plastic cladding on the wheel arches, side sills
and at the bottom of the doors, as well as the standard 18-inch silver-colored
Braga alloy wheels.
Additionally, the lower bumper elements,
roof rails, window frames and mirror caps feature a silver finish. LED fog
lights are standard on the Octavia Scout, which also features Scout badges on
its front wings. Full-LED Matrix headlights can be had as an option. Inside,
model-specific features include the ThermoFlux upholstery, embroidered Scout
logos on the front seats, decorative trims on the instrument panel, as well as
Tabor Brown stitching and aluminum decor finish for the pedals. Other interior
goodies include the chrome trim, textile floor mats, and a Scout welcome logo
on the standard 10-inch central touch display.