Skoda will take aim at Subaru and the likes of Hyundai's City with Scout versions of the Octavia and Roomster. But existing products can breathe a sigh of relief -- the Czech-brand's high-riding models won't be here until late in 2008.

The Octavia Scout is a confirmed addition to the VW-owned brand's local line-up around mid-year 2008.

Essentially a high-clearance version of the Octavia 4x4 Combi [read: wagon], the Scout echoes the likes of Subaru's Liberty-based Outback and Volvo's larger and more expensive XC70. Thus in keeping with the formulae, Scout gets extra plastic cladding to the lower door and fender surfaces and larger wheels and tyres. A single-speed, automated 4x4 system is used, augmented by a reprogrammed version of the same traction and stability control systems used in the low-ride Combi.

Boasting a high-output 2.0-litre TDI version in Europe, the Octavia Scout is currently only offered in six-speed manual form -- hence Skoda Australia's decision to delay the debut.

"We believe that the majority of Scout buyers will be looking for an automatic gearbox," Skoda Australia chief, Matthew Wiesner told The Carsales Network. "To that end we've taken the decision to wait until we can offer the Octavia Scout with DSG."

"DSG offers the best of both worlds -- sequential manual or a fully automatic mode," he said.

The Scout version of the Roomster could join its hatch/MPV namesake sooner, however, Wiesner has hinted.

Like Hyundai's City, the Roomster has mini SUV looks and a higher riding suspension (courtesy of a suspension lift of approx 15mm plus bigger 'boots') but remains steadfastly front-wheel drive. In fact, the platform on which it is built is not even all-wheel-drive compatible.

The Roomster Scout is available in petrol and turbodiesel versions in Europe, the former offering the choice of manual or auto boxes.

According to Wiesner, the marque is "seriously considering" its options to add Roomster Scout to its launch campaign.

"The feedback we're getting is that Roomster Scout could provide an added dimension to the brand in its launch phase Down Under," Wiesner told the Carsales Network.

Two-wheel drive versions of high-riding wagons/SUVs have become somewhat of a favourite of Aussies of late.

Around 65 per cent of all Ford Territorys sold are two-wheel drive. Toyota is on the verge of launching its new Kluger with a front-wheel drive version and in smaller categories models like the Dodge Caliber and Hyundai Tucson City are also proving attractive to buyers.

Read our launch review of the Roomster here and visit soon for our Octavia review.

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