Skoda has added another string to the Kodiaq’s bow, revealing a rugged Scout version of its new SUV which will be revealed in full at the Geneva Motor Show this March.
The Kodiaq Scout gets a handful of distinctive styling details alongside plenty of off-road inspired standard equipment, the overall package similar to the tweaks found on the Octavia Scout. As such, an all-wheel-drive system comes as standard.
Both the front and rear bumpers get new silver coloured protective inserts to make the Kodiaq Scout appear tougher than regular versions of the SUV. Silver detailing is also found framing the radiator grille, on the roof rails and on the side window trims. Unique 19-inch wheels and Scout badging round off the styling tweaks. The Scout also gets a slightly higher ground clearance of 194mm, plus better under-body protection.
Alongside the all-wheel-drive system, the Scout comes with a suite of driver assists tailored towards its off-road character. Off-Road Assist adjusts the shock absorbers, reduces throttle response, primes the differential lock for quicker reactions and permits a little slip in the ABS system. It’s paired with hill hold and descent control functions, plus a driving mode selector with a snow specific setup.
Trailer Assist and Blind Spot Detect makes the cut, as does Rear Traffic Alert, proximity sensing Front Assist and autonomous emergency braking. Park Assist on the Scout uses wide-angle cameras to create a top-down virtual view of the car on the infotainment screen too.
• Hot Skoda Kodiaq vRS on the table
In the cabin the Kodiaq Scout gets the Swing touchscreen infotainment setup as standard, though the range topping Columbus system with its 9.2-inch screen, sat nav and on-board Wi-Fi is on the options list. A multi-function steering wheel, LED ambient lighting and Alcantara covered seats are also found within.
Skoda hasn’t revealed UK prices for the Scout just yet, but at launch the engine line-up will consist of two petrols and two diesels. Petrols are covered by the 148bhp 1.4-litre TSI and 178bhp 2.0-litre TSI, alongside the 2.0-litre TDI in two states of tune – 148bhp and 187bhp.
Does the Kodiaq Scout sound like the best version of Skoda's new SUV? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.