Skoda Octavia Scout 2008 AIMS
October 9, 2008 by Matt Brogan
Skoda is broadening the appeal of its Octavia line-up even further with the introduction of an exciting new product – Octavia Scout 4X4.
The Scout will see Skoda enter the compact SUV segment and is designed for drivers who demand equal measures of practicality and individuality. The Octavia Scout 4X4 model features all the usual Skoda refinements but adds rugged good looks, high equipment levels and a state-of-the-art four-wheel-drive system allowing owners to go where others fear to tread in some compact crossover SUVs.
The Octavia Scout 4×4 has been developed to offer drivers the best of both worlds. As happy on urban roads as it is in mud, sand or snow, Octavia Scout 4X4 is fitted with an abundance of features which allow it to tackle a wide variety of rough terrain.
The key to its dramatic dynamic flexibility lies in its second-generation Haldex clutch mechanism, which allows power to be transferred between the front and rear wheels as and when it is required.
A further development of acclaimed first-generation Haldex system, the new version reacts even faster to provide increased traction on loose surfaces. The Octavia Scout 4X4 has ground clearance of 180 mm so that it can be used in many different conditions: on road, off road, for commercial purposes and recreation.
The power to the wheels is delivered through a powerful yet economical Volkswagen Group 2.0-litre TDI with diesel particulate filter as standard producing 103 kW/ 320 Nm, linked to a six-speed manual transmission.
As you would expect from a Skoda, the new Octavia Scout comes with a generous range of standard equipment including 17″ Proteus alloy wheels, heated front seats, dual zone air con, ESP, 6 airbags, rear acoustic parking sensors, cruise control, twin chrome exhausts and unique ‘Scout’ touches throughout the cabin.
When you also consider the 580 litres of boot space (1,620 litres with the back seats down), there is no doubt the Scout is a true all-rounder.
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These Skoda’s are great cars. I am currently traveling in Europe on business and have ridden in a lot of the Octavia taxis. All the drivers have said they are well built, one of the most reliable cars in Europe, economical and just don’t give trouble. Some of them have huge kilometres on the clock. One had something approaching 500′000 odd thousand, still on the original.
The only problem in Australia is the unknown resale value and the limited dealership structure. Unfortunaly Skoda has taken a wrong turn and has given some dealerships to second hand outlets of some other brands. For instance the closest one to me is the Holden dealer in Ferntree Gully (an outer east suburb of Melbourne). When I went in their to have a look some weeks ago, I ended up having to tell the sales person about the car. He was convinced Skoda was owned by Volvo, not VAG. He also thought they were made in Korea. That sort of approach will not succeed unfortunately which is a shame because these are great cars. I also had a ride in the new Superb. Despite the looks (always a matter of differing taste) it is nice to ride in. Very comfortable, quiet and a huge amount of space. The sedan/hatch with traditional bootlid that can be opened as a hatch is a brilliant idea. Imagine if Holden did build a new age Torana withthat feature! Hey Skaifey, gotta a new car for you…..