2020 Skoda Octavia Scout Revealed; Australian Debut Possible

The 2020 Skoda Octavia Scout has been revealed ahead of a possible Australian debut in 2021. Based on the latest-generation Octavia, the Scout now offers more choice in its range with both petrol and diesel powerplants, as well as the choice of front-wheel drive for those who don’t need all-wheel drive but still want a raised ride height. 

Competing against other raised wagons such as the Subaru Outback, Volkswagen Golf Alltrack and even its in-house rival the Skoda Superb Scout, the Octavia Scout has been in existence since 2007 when it was released on the second-generation Octavia.

Like the previous Scouts, the new model features a slightly raised ride height (+15mm) as well as lots of plastic body cladding, unique interior trims including woodgrain dashboard highlights, and unique software touches such as Scout naming on the centre screen. The pedals are metal, and the upholstery, steering wheel, armrests and dashboard come with brown stitching. 

The exterior also features unique 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels, silver-coloured front and rear diffusers, roof rails, window frames, mirror caps. The mirrors are also auto-folding and auto-dimming as standard, and the Scout also has LED front fog lights and exterior Scout badging to further differentiate itself from regular Octavia models.

Measuring 4,703mm long and 1,829mm wide, the new Octavia Scout is 16mm longer and 15mm wider than the previous model, and features a huge 630-litre boot (increased by 30L). The new Scout can also tow up to 2,000kg. 

Available powerplants for the 2020 Skoda Octavia Scout include an 110kW 1.5-litre turbo petrol, a 140kW 2.0-litre turbo petrol and a 2.0-litre turbo diesel in 85kW, 110kW and 147kW power forms. The most powerful models come with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and all-wheel drive as standard, while the other models feature both as options. Front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual are standard. 

Skoda Australia is yet to confirm the 2020 Skoda Octavia Scout for local sales, though with the previous model being sold here and the current Superb Scout on sale, the chances are good of the new model coming down under.