Fully prepared and always ready for an adventure we find out if Skoda’s Octavia really can be transformed into a Scout writes Geraldine Herbert
What is it? Skoda’s Octavia Scout, a no-nonsense estate car with impressive off-road capability is an interesting alternative to the suburban SUV.
Who is it aimed at? For those looking for a decent amount of power, four-wheel drive with the space and practicality of an estate this may just be their ideal car!
Styling? The Scout has been made to look more rugged with black cladding, plastic mouldings on the bumpers and wheel arches and silver plates front and rear. It is also a fraction longer than the regular Octavia Estate and comes complete with an increased ride height of 33mm that gives an impressive 171mm of ground clearance and is equipped with all-wheel drive. And if its towing you are interested in the Scout will pull up to 2,000kg.
Under the Bonnet? There are just two 2.0-litre diesel engines to choose from, the top of the range 184bhp variant, which comes with a six-speed semi automatic DSG transmission as standard or the 150bhp with a 6 speed manual gear box which is the car we tested. It goes from 0 – 100 in 9.1 seconds and has a top speed of 207 per hour..
What about inside? Inside, the Octavia Scout is very similar to the standard Octavia Estate with a clean and uncluttered dash but there are also a number of Scout cues dotted around the place to remind you that you are in a Scout. According to Skoda inside it has the greatest amount of passenger space in its class, including a generous back seat and boot space that expands from 610 to 1740 litres.
On the Road? On the road it drives well, the suspension is good so it handles nicely and the increased ride height and off-road kit means there is a little more body roll on corners but generally if feels very much like the rest of the Octavia range. The all wheel drive system gives it a huge amount of grip and it feels very stable. But it could be a little more refined and wind and road noise is noticeable
And Safety? There is plenty of high-tech wizardry to keep you and all occupants safe and each model comes with 9 airbags.
Options? The Scout comes with a choice of two engines and just one trim spec. Standard equipment is good and includes Cruise control, Rear Parking Sensors, Roof Rails, Front Fog Lights and Rear LED Lights.
Will it break the bank? Prices for the Octavia Scout start at €33,795 and go to €37,095 for the 184bhp version with a semi automatic gearbox (DSG).
Economy? Given the fact that it is all wheel drive fuel consumption on the Octavia Scout is particularly good and Skoda reckon the Scout returns 4.9 litres per 100 or 57.7 mpg with CO2 emissions of 129 so its €270 a year to tax
Verdict? The Octavia Scout Skoda is a great capable family car but if you want a diesel estate with a decent amount of go anywhere ability the regular Octavia Estate with 4×4 comes with a cheaper price tag and enough kerb-hopping ability for most buyers.
Why you’ll buy one? Space; looks; Reliability
Why you won’t? Octavia Estate is better value; Engine Noise
ŠKODA Octavia Scout 4×4 2.0 TDI 150bhp
Engine: 1968cc diesel, 112 kW (150php) @3,500, 340 @Nm 1750rpm
Max speed: 207km/h
0-100 kph: 9.1 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 129g/km (€270)
Model price range(L&K): €33,795 – €37,095
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 4.9 litres per 100 kms
Boot Capacity Seats up(down) : 610 Litres (1740)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4685mm
Width: 1814mm
Height: 1531mm
Wheelbase: 2679mm
For more information check out Skoda.ie, the Skoda Facebook page or follow them on twitter here.
Geraldine Herbert
1st April, 2015
