Skoda Scout Reviews

Volkswagen's Czech brand Skoda has begun something of a product onslaught for its Australian operations with the launch of the DSG-transmission-equipped Octavia Scout 4x4 wagon.The Skoda Scout first saw the light of day in Australia back in 2009 but until now it was available only in six-speed manual guise - a decision that limited its sales success.The new DSG-equipped Scout comes in two models - the entry-level version priced at $41,790 and the Premium that tips the dollar scales at $45,790. Both of the manufacturer's list prices are $2300 more than the manual versions and Skoda believes the top-spec model will account for around 60 per cent of sales.With Subaru's petrol-and-diesel Outback firmly it his sights, Skoda Australia boss Matthew Wiesner says he and his team are excited to offer what they believe is the best all-round package in this segment.Using the DSG Scout as a product-launch springboard, Wiesner plans to follow the wagon in the next few months with the funky Fabia hatch, a sporty Monte Carlo version of the Fabia, the Yeti 2WD and 4WD and a stove-hot Fabia RS wagon.But back to the Scout.Its powerplant is the VW group's excellent new-generation 2.0-litre common-rail-equipped turbo-diesel that delivers 103kW at 4200rpm and a handy 320Nm of peak torque that is on tap between 1750 and 2500rpm.As well as its great torque delivery, what is seriously impressive about this engine is its combined-fuel-consumption of just 6.1litres/100km. Environmentally conscious buyers will also be impressed by a CO2-emissions figure of 160g/km.Safety is also one of the Scout's highlights and as well as its top-lint 4x4 system, standard kit includes six airbags, electronic stability program, ABS brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, anti-slip regulation and hill-hold control.The wagon's all-wheel drive system uses a fourth-generation Haldex clutch that works with its other onboard electronic systems to deliver super-fast fast responses.Even the entry-level Scout comes standard with a generous inventory of standard goodies and it includes satellite navigation, 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, heated front seats, dual-zone air conditioning, rear acoustic parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, roof rails, a multi-function, leather-wrapped steering wheel, twin chrome exhausts and unique interior-trim features.Opt for the Premium model and you add an electric glass sunroof, privacy glass from B-pillar, polished 17-inch alloy wheels, Alcantara leather-appointed upholstery and an electric driver's seat with memory.Ground clearance is 180mm ground clearance and Skoda engineers have modified the wagon's springs to raise the ride height by 40mm over the standard Octavia Wagon. With the rear seats occupied, there is 580litres of luggage space and this rises to 1620litres when the 60/40 rear seat backrests are dropped down.Preliminary driving impressions gleaned in the Queensland and northern New South Wales hinterland showed the DSG-equipped Scout to be a smooth, capable cruiser that is not unsettled by a bit of rough stuff. Its steering is beautifully weighted, turn-in is impressive and predictable and the car's surefootedness on rough gravel surfaces was right up there with the best of them.In fact it was surprising how infrequently the Scout's ESP kicked in, even during the most enthusiastic of gravel-road punting. The 103kW/320Nm and the DSG go together like peaches and cream and the fuel economy means visits to the diesel pump are infrequent.SKODA SCOUTPrice: from $41,790Warranty: 3-year / unlimited kilometreResale: 75% (est.)Service interval: variable, condition-basedSafety: 4-star Euro NCAPEngine: 2.0-litre, 4-cyl turbodiesel, 103kW/320NmBody: five-door wagonWeight: 1550-1570kgTransmission: 6-speed manual and DSG, four-wheel driveThirst: 6.1 L/100km, CO2 160g/km.