Škoda Octavia Scout

Ready to be unveiled at next month's Paris Motor Show, the new 4x4 is a cheaper alternative to Audi's A6 Avant-based Allroad, and widens the appeal of Skoda's model range.

Riding 40mm higher than the standard Octavia estate, the Scout doesn't feature the adjustable air-suspension of the Audi, but it still has enough ground clearance to tackle rough roads. What's more, with a tough all-wheel-drive system and underbody protection, it should offer all the mild mud-plugging ability most owners will ever need.

Visually, the Scout is given a chunky finish with a redesigned front and rear bumper, as well as extended side skirts and wheelarches. The extra bodywork has increased the overall dimensions, and at 4,581mm in length, the model is 10mm longer and 15mm wider than the standard Octavia 4x4, which is already available in the UK. At the rear, twin exhausts are also standard.

Inside, the Scout variant is set apart by unique trim designed to reflect the rugged exterior styling. Buyers have a choice of two engines. A 2.0-litre FSI petrol developing 148bhp will provide maximum refinement, while a 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel offers greater economy. Both are linked to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard.

Following its debut in Paris, the car goes on sale in the UK early next year. Only estate variants will be available, but the existing 4x4 model will remain in the line-up alongside the Scout.