You may know the Skoda Octavia Scout as a rugged off-roadery version of the popular estate car. It features raised suspension and all-wheel drive, which made it a pleasing oddity to behold. UK-based fans of the Scout may be happy to hear that it’s returning for 2021, but unfortunately for civilians, purchases will only be for the UK’s emergency services.
Based on Skoda’s estate wagon, the Scout
has been given a bit of ruggedness to make driving over diverse terrain
slightly more bearable. Skoda claims that the new generation crossover/wagon
fusion is said to be the most capable yet, and will come in a choice of 2.0L
turbocharged diesel engines that will produce either 150 PS or 200 PS. They will
be paired with an all-wheel-drive DSG transmission, which the Czech automaker
is convinced will be a great addition to a fleet required to carry out special
duties.
The standout aspect of the Scout compared
to the rest of the Octavia series is its proclaimed off-road capabilities.
Compared to the regular Octavia estate, the Scout comes with a total ground
clearance of 161mm (15mm more than the standard Octavia). The “rough road
package” offers a rear axle skid plate, revised springs, and Scout-specific
chassis tuning. Couple that with an array of stability systems (ABS, ASR, ESC)
that, in conjunction with the optional Off-Road function, are adjusted
specifically for rough terrain, you apparently have a competent SUV challenger.
But even with its added height and fancy
new bits and pieces, it still manages to remain very much an Octavia, with
emphasis on comfort and drivability with aspects such as a 10″ touch screen
infotainment system, USB C outlets, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and
Mirrorlink compatibility. Perhaps most important to ambulance, fire, and police
teams, you get an exceptionally practical 640-liter boot.
Skoda’s ‘one-stop-shop,’ which will cater
exclusively to emergency service fleets, is ready to make modifications to suit
the customer’s intended purpose for the Scout, making its purchase a complete
package.
