Introduction
When it comes to building rugged SUVs, Skoda is up there with the best of them. The Karoq and Kodiaq have proven a huge success since their relatively recent introductions, proving to be a smash hit amongst buyers.
Both cars in 4x4 forms are already capable machines, but what if you’re looking for something just a little bit tougher? Step in the Scout range — the firm’s attempt at offering rough-and ready machines. It’s the Karoq Scout we’re driving here.
Performance
Powering our Karoq Scout test car is a 2.0-litre diesel engine, sending its 148bhp and 340Nm of torque to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. The result is 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds, with a top speed of 122mph possible.
The engine is a little bit more on the gruff side — as is to be expected from a big diesel — but power delivery is impressive for something of this size. Low-end torque allows for brisk getaways from junctions, and the engine doesn’t feel underpowered at any point in the rev range.
Ride & Handling
Though the Karoq Scout may take on a tougher look, it remains a remarkably capable car in regular driving. Its ride is supple, cabin noise is limited and its very happy to be sat at speed on a cruise. It’s far from the most involving drive, so don’t expect an engaging back road monster, but it offers impressive levels of grip and proves hard to unsettle — partly in thanks to its four-wheel-drive system. Around town, great visibility and surprisingly agile dynamics make it great to shift around tighter spots too.
Interior & Equipment
The cabin is remarkably Volkswagen Group — sharply-designed, not too fussy and very well put together. There are some harder plastics dotted around the place, but they’re no bother unless you purposely seek them out, and the fabric seats can become uncomfortable over long distances. As for space, five can be seated with plenty of comfort while the boot can take up to 521 litres worth of luggage.
Scout trim sits high in the Karoq range, resulting in a respectable level of equipment. Enhancing its appearance is a set of ‘Scout’ bumpers, 19-inch alloy wheels and full adaptive LED headlights, while interior luxuries include a panoramic sunroof, a leather multifunction steering wheel and wood-finish dashboard inserts.
Cost
Pricing for the Skoda Karoq Scout starts from £30,650. This puts it at the pricier end of the small SUV market, but for the level of equipment on offer it’s a reasonable cost to bear.
As for running costs, Skoda claims the Karoq Scout as tested here can return 42.8mpg on the combined WLTP cycle while emitting 134g/km in CO2 emissions — making it an affordable prospect.
- Entry Level Karoq Scout - starting from £30,650.00
- Range topping Karoq Scout DSG - starting from £32,590.00
Prices correct at time of publishing from the manufacturer website.
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Verdict
Scout trims take the already impressive hallmarks of the Skoda Karoq and adds an extra sense of rugged styling. It’s not off-road brute, but it looks cool and the tougher additions haven’t detracted from its comfortable ride, impressive practicality and leisurely drive.