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2015 Skoda Octavia Scout 4x4 detailed


Skoda confirms Australian specifications for the new Octavia Scout ahead of March arrival.

The new off-road orientated Skoda Octavia Scout will hit local showrooms next month, with the second generation of the Octavia wagon-based model promising a blend of practicality and ability away from the blacktop. 

The Scout will rival cars like the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack and new Subaru Outback in the jacked-up wagon segment, and will likely be significantly cheaper than the $48,290 VW and similarly priced to the Japanese car which starts at $35,490. 

Three different engines will be offered in Australia, with the choice of a six-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

The entry-level model is powered by a 110kW turbodiesel engine with a six-speed manual, while a 132kW petrol and 135kW diesel are also available exclusively with a dual-clutch auto. 

The 135TDI uses a similar 2.0-litre four-cylinder powertrain to its Passat Alltrack VW Group sibling, but the Skoda pushes out an extra 5kW.

Like the Previos Scout, the new model uses a Haldex all-wheel drive system, and sits 31mm higher than standard Octavia models for off-road ground clearance.

The new Scout also wears unique front and rear bumpers with black plastic moldings around the wheelarches that hint at the its off-road pretentions. 

There’s also extra underbody protection compared to the standard Octavia wagon for added ruggedness.

Inside, the Scout is mostly standard Octavia wagon apart from the slightly higher-set driving position. 

Standard features include nine airbags, reversing camera with rear parking sensors and fatigue detection system, while up-spec 135TDI and 132TSI add eight-inch touchscreen infotainment with satnav, dual-zone air-con and automatic tailgate – these features can also be added to the base model through the optional Premium Pack. 

Optional on all models is the Tech Pack, which includes adaptive cruise control, xenon headlights, auto park assist, premium sound system, keyless entry and start, drive mode selector and city emergency brake system – though oddly not available on the 135TDI diesel. 

For the first time on a Skoda, a new camera-based lane-keep assist system is also available as part of the optional Tech Pack. 

The new Skoda Octavia Scout 4x4 goes on sale across Australia on March 26.