After the SUV has largely mutated into an SUV, the manufacturers especially like to spice up their smaller SUVs for off-road mobility at a surcharge. At least visually. At Skoda these models are called "Scout" and such a version has also been available for the compact SUV Karoq for some time.
In the past, all-wheel drive was mandatory for a sport utility vehicle. In the meantime it is almost worth a special mention, at least from the compact class down. Because in these segments, buyers are mostly satisfied with front-wheel drive today. Anyone who opts for a Skoda Karoq as a "Scout" always has the 4 × 4 drive on board. Otherwise, the Czechs give their compact SUV in this variant - there are also the "bourgeois" lines "Active", "Ambition" and "Style" - the usual off-road look insignia in the form of wheel arch linings, underbody protection and 18-inch wheels with me on the sometimes bumpy route. A 2,0-liter diesel and a 1,5-liter Otto (110 kW / 150 PS each) can be combined with the "Scout" equipment. Prices start at 33.090 euros (petrol).
For almost one and a half years Skoda offers the Karoq as the successor of the cult-edged Yeti. For the "Scout" version, the VW subsidiary took a little longer, this variant is offered only since last summer. All-wheel drive, however, there was already in connection with certain engines before, so that the comparatively just 3.000 Euro more expensive Scout ultimately differs mainly by the optically more rustic appearance and more features of a Normalo-Karoq.
Even otherwise, this version is through and through a typical Skoda. There is plenty of space for the driver and three passengers thanks to the sleek design. There is also a suitably large trunk with space for well over 500 liters of luggage. Who wants to use the SUV sometimes for a move, can expand the room by extending the seats up to 1.800 liter when he orders the so-called Varioflex seating system for 400 Euro. Additional stowage compartments, bag hooks, the large load compartment opening and large door cut-outs provide the Skoda typical everyday usability. For sensible appearance fits the clear cockpit with a beautiful 9,2-inch display and tidy center console.
Of the two engines offered, the diesel is the most appropriate choice for this car, even if about three out of four buyers currently opt for the gasoline engine. The available from 34.850 Euro diesel is sufficiently powerful and delivers a torque of up to 340 Newton meters, which rests almost over the entire relevant in everyday life area. The standard consumption of 5,2 liters is in practice with cautious driving not completely illusory, who calculates with 6,5 liters is safe and should not be disappointed.
The engine is not exactly quiet, but its growling attitude is not unpleasant either. What annoys rather is the dual-clutch transmission (DSG), if one decides for this. It likes to jerk and is much less comfortable compared to a modern converter. For the Karoq springs comfortable and the chassis can hardly face serious problems.
But of course you can already ask the question, if it really needs an equipment variant "Scout". Engine, transmission, all-wheel drive and equipment can finally be put together like this. The more robust outfit will not really be needed for the fewest users; If you really only want to ride on easy terrain yourself, you will probably look at other vehicles. But what does it say so beautifully in a song by André Heller: The true adventures are in your head. Who dreams of his dream of the automobile freedom in the Karoq Scout, at least when buying a car did not do much wrong.
