New Skoda Scala officially revealed

We had already seen the cabin, knew its dimensions and even had an idea of its overall shape. However, the new Skoda Scala was only officially unveiled yesterday. It replaces not only the Rapid, but also moves upmarket, positioning itself unequivocally in the C-segment.

Although it is the first Skoda to use the MQB A0 platform - the same architecture found beneath the Volkswagen Polo and SEAT Ibiza - the Scala will take on cars such as the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. In truth, it certainly has the dimensions to do so.

At 4.36 m long, the Skoda Scala is larger, for instance, than the SEAT Leon (4.28 m) and Volkswagen Golf (4.26 m). Its engine line-up will comprise five options: three petrol units, one Diesel and a natural gas (CNG) version.

Design: the start of a new philosophy

Previewed by the Vision RS prototype displayed by the Czech brand at the Paris Motor Show, the Scala is, according to Skoda, the first production model to introduce the next stage of the brand’s design language.

One development in this evolution of Skoda styling is the use of the brand name, rather than the badge, across the rear end; the Scala is the first Skoda in Europe to adopt this approach. Front and rear LED lights are another highlight, making it the first model in its segment to provide this lighting technology as standard.

Skoda Scala interior: space in abundance

The Skoda Scala’s cabin also reveals the adoption of the new design approach. The new Skoda model features a touchscreen positioned at the top of the dashboard and does away with a number of physical buttons and controls - another solution previously seen on the Vision RS concept.

The MQB A0 platform enables the Skoda Scala to deliver interior space comparable with that of the Octavia. Its boot has a 467 l capacity, one of the largest in the segment; the considerably longer Civic manages 478 l.

In terms of infotainment, the Skoda Scala is the first model from the Czech manufacturer to be permanently online. This is made possible by an integrated eSIM card, which supplies an internet connection without requiring an additional SIM card or a wired connection through a smartphone.

The Scala can be equipped with the SKODA Connect app, allowing owners to lock or unlock the car remotely using a smartphone, and even check whether every window is closed. A 10.25″ Virtual Cockpit is available as an option, while a 9.2″ touchscreen is offered.

Skoda Scala engines and chassis

Alongside its five engine choices, the Scala will be available with the optional, more sporting Chassis Sport Preset. This lowers the Scala by 15 mm and adds a Sport driving mode, which changes the firmness of the adjustable dampers and can be selected through the Driving Mode Select menu.

Engine	Power	Torque	Transmission
1.0 TSI, 3 cyl.	95 cv	175 Nm	Manual, 5-speed
1.0 TSI, 3 cyl.	115 cv	200 Nm	Manual, 6-speed, DSG automatic, 7-speed (optional)
1.5 TSI, 4 cyl.	150 cv	250 Nm	Manual, 6-speed, DSG automatic, 7-speed (optional)
1.6 TDI, 4 cyl.	115 cv	250 Nm	Manual, 6-speed, DSG automatic, 7-speed (optional)
1.0 G-TEC*, 3 cyl.	90 cv	145 Nm	Manual, 6-speed

Available later in 2019

Safety has not been overlooked

Thanks to the new platform, Skoda has been able to fit the Scala with the latest safety and driver-assistance technologies inherited from higher-segment Volkswagen Group models.

Available as options are systems including Side Assist, which alerts the driver when a vehicle is approaching to overtake, Adaptive Cruise Control and Park Assist.

As standard, the Skoda Scala comes with systems such as Lane Assist and Front Assist. The latter includes City Emergency Brake, which monitors the area ahead of the car when driving in urban areas and can apply the brakes in an emergency.

Simply clever solutions remain

As expected of a Skoda, the Scala also includes a range of characteristically simply clever features. In this case, though, they go well beyond the umbrella in the driver’s door and the ice scraper in the fuel-filler flap.

Highlights include an electrically retractable tow bar, operated by pressing a button in the boot, an optional electric tailgate with “tip-to-close” functionality, four USB ports - two at the front and two at the rear - and other solutions.

The Skoda Scala is scheduled to arrive at Portuguese dealerships in the second quarter of 2019. The Czech brand has not yet announced prices.