Skoda Kodiaq Scout Launch Tomorrow: 5 Things You Need To Know

UPDATE: Skoda has launched the Scout Variant at a price tag of Rs 34 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Cosmetic changes will include skid plates and 18-inch restyled wheels.
• Off-road-focussed enhancements include a new Off-road driving mode
• Expected to retain the 2.0-litre 150PS/340Nm TDI engine.
• Will take on rivals like the Ford Endeavour and Toyota Fortuner.

The wait is almost over as Skoda prepares to launch the Kodiaq Scout tomorrow on September 30 in India. Unlike the creature comfort-focussed L&K variant, the Scout is an off-road-focussed variant and comes with a host of enhancements. Here’s all you need to know about the upcoming SUV. 

Design

On the outside, it will get a variety of rugged cosmetic elements that include aggressive skid plates at the front and back, restyled alloy wheels that are likely to be 18-inch units and silver finish on the ORVMs, roof rails and the grille surround. Going inside, the Kodiaq Scout is expected to sport black interior upholstery to withstand muck and dirt.

Off-road Enhancements

 

The various off-road-centric enhancements to the Kodiaq Scout will include a more off-road-centric all-wheel drive system with the addition of the ‘Off-Road’ drive mode. This mode adjusts throttle response and damper settings depending on driving conditions. Topping off the enhancements is full underbody protection to secure all the expensive hardware.

Features

With the Kodiaq Scout likely to sit at the mid-range of the model lineup, expect features like a digital instrument display, panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting. Other bits expected are a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Skoda Connect as well as ventilated seats. In its international-spec, the Skoda Kodiaq Scout also gets driver assistance systems like Trailer Assist and Blind Spot Detection. However, due to India’s restrictive laws regarding the use of radar-based technology, these gizmos are unlikely to be offered here.

Engines 

The Kodiaq Scout is expected to retain the same 2.0-litre TDI engine as the road-biased variants. The India-spec develops 150PS of power and 340Nm of peak torque mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission and all-wheel-drive. The international-spec, on the other hand, benefits from more engine options that consist of a 190PS 2.0-litre TDI engine, 150PS 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine or a 190PS 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine. 

Price & Rivals

The regular Kodiaq variants are currently priced in the range from Rs 35.37 lakh to Rs 36.79 lakh (ex-showroom India). Since the Kodiaq Scout is expected to be slotted in between the Style and L&K variant we expect it to come at a premium over the standard variant. Expect the rugged Kodiaq Scout to take on rivals like the Ford Endeavour and Toyota Fortuner.