Skoda Kodiaq Scout

The Skoda Kodiaq Scout is a variant of the Kodiaq SUV that is tailored for those who want a more rugged and off-road capable vehicle without sacrificing luxury. It features a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine producing 148bhp and 349Nm of torque, paired with a smooth 7-speed DSG gearbox. The Scout variant includes design upgrades such as front bumper inserts, a rear diffuser, roof rails, and ORVMs in metallic silver, along with dual-tone 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it boasts an all-black interior with Alcantara leather upholstery and a brush wood finish on the dashboard. The off-road mode is a key feature, adjusting the engine, electronic assistants, and stability control systems for better low-speed performance off the beaten path. Additionally, it comes with underbody protection for the engine, oil sump, and gearbox, and a tyre pressure monitoring system unique to this variant. Overall, the Kodiaq Scout offers a unique blend of luxury, refinement, and off-road capability, making it an attractive option in its segment.

The Skoda Kodiaq Scout is priced at Rs 33.99 lakh ex-showroom in India, positioning it between the Style and LK variants. When you factor in the on-road costs, including taxes and registration, the price can go up to around Rs 40-42 lakh, depending on the state you are in. This pricing makes the Scout a competitive option, especially considering it retains most of the premium features of the LK variant while adding unique off-road capabilities. Its about Rs 2.8 lakh and Rs 1.3 lakh cheaper than the LK and Style variants, respectively, making it a value-for-money proposition for those who need a balance of luxury and off-road readiness.

The Skoda Kodiaq Scout offers a respectable fuel economy, with an official rating of 16.25 kml. In real-world driving, especially on highways, it can deliver around 13-14 kml, which is commendable given its size and capabilities. This makes it a reasonable choice for those concerned about running costs, especially if you plan to use it for both city driving and occasional long trips.

The Skoda Kodiaq Scout is a compelling option for those seeking a blend of luxury, off-road capability, and everyday practicality. On the road, it exhibits superb driving dynamics, a firm but well-damped ride, and a very European feel that sets it apart from its competitors. The addition of the off-road mode, which adjusts throttle response, dampers, and traction control, makes it more capable in challenging terrain. However, its important to note that while it handles light trails and bad roads with ease, it is not designed for extreme off-roading. The interior is luxurious, with Alcantara leather upholstery and a brush wood finish, though it misses out on features like the virtual cockpit and 360-degree camera available in the LK variant. Overall, the Kodiaq Scout is a great choice for those who want a premium SUV that can handle both urban and light off-road duties with aplomb.

The upcoming second-generation Skoda Kodiaq has scored 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash test, ensuring high safety standards. This is reassuring for potential buyers, especially those considering the Scout variant for its off-road capabilities. I think this safety rating will boost consumer confidence in the vehicles overall performance and safety.

The second-generation Skoda Kodiaq, set to launch in India in mid-2025, will include a plug-in hybrid variant, marking a significant technological advancement. This new generation will be larger than its predecessor and offer multiple variants, including the Scout. I believe the addition of a plug-in hybrid option will make the Kodiaq more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

Skoda Auto India increased the allocation of Kodiaq units for the Indian market to 750 SUVs per quarter in 2023. This move was part of their strategy to meet the growing demand for the SUV, including the Scout variant. The increased allocation should help reduce waiting times for customers. I think this is a positive step, showing Skodas commitment to the Indian market.

In 2021, the Skoda Kodiaq, including the Scout variant, received a mid-life facelift. This update brought subtle design changes, new features, and a BS6-compliant 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine. The facelift aimed to refresh the SUVs look and enhance its performance. I believe these updates made the Kodiaq Scout even more appealing to Indian buyers looking for a versatile SUV.

The Skoda Kodiaq Scout, an off-road focused variant of the Kodiaq SUV, was launched in India in 2019, priced at Rs. 34 lakh. This variant comes with additional cladding, larger wheels, an all-black cabin, and a dedicated Off-Road mode. The Scout also features protective elements for the engine and undercarriage, making it more robust for rough terrain. I think this variant is a great option for those who love adventure and need a vehicle that can handle challenging roads.