The Skoda Superb Scout will stick around beyond the end of 2020.
Initially launched as a limited edition to fill the gap between the discontinued 2019 model and the arrival of the 2021 model, the high-riding wagon will be a full-time member of the range going forward.
Skoda says it was able to lock down extra supply of a car that fills a gap in what is a shrinking market, as large wagons gradually disappear from Australia.
Whether the car will continue on beyond 2021 as a full-time member of the Superb range will depend on supply.
Skoda has changed the Scout slightly for 2021.
The price has risen by $2000 to $63,990 drive-away (or $61,990 before on-roads), backed by extra equipment including a detachable tow bar, the latest MIB III infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, and a sportier flat-bottom steering wheel.
Power still comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 200kW of power and 350Nm of torque, sent to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Unlike the engine in the regular 206TSI range, the Superb Scout has a petrol particulate filter.
Necessary to meet emissions regulations in Europe, the filter is designed to catch the worst, most harmful particles in the car’s exhaust and burn them off at high temperatures to prevent them being emitted into the atmosphere.
Skoda stresses the fact owners need to use premium unleaded in the car. Australian petrol contains significantly more sulphur than the unleaded sold in Europe, especially in the case of 91RON regular unleaded, which can clog the filter.
The Skoda Superb Scout and 206TSI will be in Australia next month, followed by cheaper 162TSI models in the first quarter of 2021.
