Facelift for Skoda Scout
Facelifted versions of Skoda's excellent Octavia Scout 4x4 wagon are now on-sale.
The exterior and specification changes have freshened the handily-priced and well-equipped European mid-size wagon. In fact the sticker price of $39,990 has not changed from the now superseded model.
Visual changes are apparent at the front where the new model gains a new grille with 19 vertical ribs and new headlights (larger xenon lights with dynamic angle control are optional).
Inside the dual-zone air-conditioning now has an air quality sensor which automatically switches the system to re-circulation mode when air quality is sensed to be inferior.
The engine remains Volkswagen Group's current 2.0-litre TDI direct injection turbocharged diesel. This modern, EU4-compliant powerplant delivers 103kW of power and peak torque of 320Nm.
Drive is to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and Volkswagen's fourth generation Haldex clutch system.
Safety scores high marks with standard six airbags (dual front, front-side and curtain), and an Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) with Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) and ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
The versatile load area is enormous with up to 1620 litres (rear seats folded).
Dimensionally, the Scout is slightly larger than the standard Octavia 4x4 wagon and its ground clearance is 40mm higher at 180mm.
Combine that high ground clearance with a standard underbody sump guard and protective wheel arch strips plus side moldings and the result is a Skoda nicely set-up for off-road action.
