Skoda unveils Scout variant of Octavia

Skoda has unveiled the Scout variant of its Octavia.

The new variant adds rugged details, off-road flair, 15mm increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive to the fourth generation of Skoda's best-selling model.

Distinct front and rear bumpers, each with aluminium-look underbody protection, and additional black plastic trims on the wheel arches, side sills and at the bottom of the doors protect the Octavia Scout's body and provide it with a distinct appearance. This is rounded off by the standard 18-inch silver-coloured Braga alloy wheels or the optionally available 19-inch Manaslu alloys.

The front and rear diffusers, roof rails and window frames come in a silver finish, as do the housings of the electrically adjustable, folding and heated wing mirrors that include an automatic dimming function. The Octavia Scout is also equipped with LED fog lights as standard and bears exclusive 'Scout' badges on its front wings.

Available only with the estate body, the Octavia Scout continues to boast a cavernous boot capacity, which has been increased by a further 30-litres to a total of 640-litres. A new, EVO-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI with a power output of 197bhp and 400Nm of torque is celebrating its premiere in the Octavia Scout, the most powerful diesel in the history of the model range to date. Skoda is also offering its lifestyle estate with the choice of either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Customers can also opt for a 2.0-litre TDI with an output of 114bhp, or a 1.5-litre TSI delivering 148bhp – both of which are equipped with a manual six‑speed transmission. An e-TEC version of the 1.5-litre TSI featuring a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox and mild hybrid technology. Alternatively, the range-topping petrol engine - a 2.0-litre TSI producing 188bhp - will come with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed DSG as standard.

The interior of the car also features a redesigned dashboard that is modular and arranged in different levels, with a large, free-standing central display measuring up to 10-inches. The centre console is adorned with chrome detailing, which can also be found on the new door trims and handles.

Scout-specific decorative trims on the dashboard as well as ThermoFlux seats and 'Scout' logos on the front seats provide special visual touches in the interior. The Octavia Scout's pedals feature an aluminium finish, whilst its upholstery, steering wheel, armrests and dashboard all come with contrasting Tabor Brown stitching.