Long-term test review: Skoda Octavia Scout - pictures

Photographer Otis found the Octavia Scout's mix of rugged styling and supreme practicality made it a compelling choice.

There's not much of the UK's motorway network that the Octavia Scout hasn't covered during its time with us.

Otis' growing collection of camera gear slid effortlessly into the Octavia Scout's huge boot.

We've got a Skoda Octavia Scout on our fleet. It's entering the growing crossover estate market and offers a bit of extra ground clearance and usability than the standard Octavia Estate. 

Our model is powered by a 2.0-litre TDI engine with 148bhp. It emits 125g/km of CO2 and we're currently averaging 44.6mpg.

The Scout handles exactly in the manner you would expect an Octavia to, with the added bonus of long-travel suspension ensuring the ride is very comfortable. 

The Scout is proving to be a great cruiser, and the plush cabin contributes to the refined and relaxed feel. Brown leather and alcantara seats won't suit all tastes, but it's hard-wearing and easy to keep clean. 

The seats are all comfortable, and there's plenty of room for a family and luggage. 

Lack of a boot lip means loading items into the back of the Scout is easy, and optional double floor boosts space.

Skoda has always excelled in offering massive capacity, and the Octavia Scout is no exception, with huge 610-litre boot extending to 1,740 litres with the rear seats folded.

Most owners are unlikely to to venture much further than up onto a kerb or grassy track, but 4WD means the Scout can tackle trickier terrain with ease.

"If the majority of SUV buyers were being honest, they don't really need anything more rugged than the Octavia Scout. The 4x4 system is capable enough to tackle muddy tracks - which is about as far as most regular SUVs go - it has plen

The Scout's estate car roots mean it'll cost pennies to run when compared to most permanent 4WD models. The suspension soaks all but the harshest of bumps, while the plush cabin and quiet diesel engine help it to be a great cruiser.&nb

Sat-nav is easy to use and links seamlessly to our man's phone. 

<p style="text-align: left;">Bespoke dials add a classy touch to the cabin.</p>

Chunky tyres and wheels unique to the Scout add a touch of ruggedness to the look.

Silver mirrors are present as part of the rugged makeover and complement the Octavia's straight-edged design.

Silver roof rails add a touch of class, too.