Riding a wave of confidence from a successful range of models, a new style direction and a reputation that no longer holds it back, Skoda has suddenly decided to go all niche on us.
It’s already launched the brave Roomster and now the Czech manufacturer has decided to spin off the Octavia ‘Scout’.
Skoda wants you to think of it as an alternative to the Volvo XC70 or Audi Allroad, but for £10,000 less of your company’s cash. Convinced? Well it may lack a prestige badge and the ability to play the luxury card, but for those who tow, or regularly go off-road, it could be just the ticket.
But wait a minute, what of the regular and existing Octavia 4×4? Skoda won’t admit it but it’s quietly understated off-roader is being quietly ignored.
So there we have it, towering 40mm higher than the Octavia estate car and 17mm over the Octavia 4×4, the Scout wears its tough black plastic proudly, but will still slip under the 4×4 haters’ radar because it looks more like an estate.
