The Skoda Octavia Scout->ke1949 will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show->ke228 and it should mark Skoda's intention of becoming a player in the crossover market.
To be fair to Skoda->ke82, the new Octavia Scout does possess some notable elements, even though the crossover does follow some of the same characteristics of its predecessor. The notable rough and sporty exterior is a big plus, given the rather bland public perception the company has in the industry.
More than that, the Octavia Scout also gets a choice of engine and a four-wheel-drive system that should improve the car's performance and handling credentials.
Whether it's enough to attract a new segment of buyers is another thing; Skoda still has some work left to do in that regard. But it's pretty comforting knowing that the company is trying and at this stage in its ascent, you can be sure that it'll have more surprises for the Octavia Scout when the vehicle makes its debut in Geneva.
Click past the jump to read more about Skoda Octavia Scout
2014 Skoda Octavia Scout
- Make: Array
- Model: 2014 Skoda Octavia Scout
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Exterior
Similar in look the Octavia Combi, the Octavia Scout distinguishes itself with the kind of powerful and broad look that Skoda normally doesn't exude. We're not too bit surprised, but it is refreshing to see how Skoda has taken the time to work on improving the Octavia Scout's appearance. Special fist bump to the company for the wider air intake and the sharply embossed fog lights. Both elements add balance and character to the Octavia's overall look.
Interior
There's not a whole lot going on in the interior other than the fact that all the pertinent components are where they should be. Everything appears to be clean and smartly designed with functionality being the top priority. A three-spoke multifunction leather steering wheel is one of the highlights, as is the digital display on the center console. As a crossover, there's reason to be optimistic about space, specifically at the rear and the cargo space at the back.
Drivetrain
Under its hood, the Octavia Scout could receive either a 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine or a 1.8-liter TSI turbo petrol. No word yet on how much output it'll have but we expect it to be in the vicinity of 220 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. That should be good enough to hit 60 mph in eight seconds to go with a top speed of around 138 mph.
Competitors
Hard as it is to already match prestige with a brand like BMW, the Octavia Scout will likely have its hands full with the X1, which has the hallmark German build quality that has become a staple of BMWs. Add that to the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with the now famous TwinPower Turbo Technology that develops 240 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 1,250 rpm and you're looking at a car the Octavia Scout should be very wary of.
Volvo has done a tremendous job reinventing itself and its clear that the V40 Cross Country fits that mold. The new Cross Country model is about 40 mm higher than the standard V40 and will be distinguished by a new front end with a dark, contrasting bumper, honeycomb mesh grille, and upright DRL-lights. As far as power, the crossover will be offered in two different petrol versions: a T5 and T4 variant The T5, specifically, is powered by either a 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 254 horsepower or a 2.0 liter five-cylinder engine with 213 horsepower, along with a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Conclusion
It's too early to tell how the Octavia Scout is going to be packaged but based on the photos and how it looks, the Octavia looks a lot sportier than its predecessor, which is what you should expect given the lengths Skoda has taken to re-imagine itself to the public.