Škoda Auto has a long and storied history that began in 1895 when Václav Laurin and Václav Klement founded a bicycle manufacturer in the town of Mladá Boleslav, Bohemia. The company evolved over the decades into one of the largest carmakers in Europe. In 1925, Laurin & Klement merged with Škoda Works, an industrial conglomerate, and the Škoda name was given to the cars. Today, Škoda Auto is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group.[1]
The Škoda Scala is Škoda’s compact hatchback model that was introduced in 2018. It replaced the Škoda Rapid model in Europe. The Scala represents an important entry-level model for Škoda and competes against vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Toyota Corolla. The Scala aims to provide practicality, value, and typical Škoda quality in an affordable package.[2]
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%A0koda_Auto
[2] https://www.skoda-auto.com/world/history
Overview of the Skoda Scala
The Skoda Scala is a five-door subcompact hatchback that sits below the Octavia in Skoda’s lineup. It is known for its style, value, spaciousness, and modern technology. Some of the Scala’s key features and selling points include:
– An athletic and sleek hatchback exterior with a prominent grille and sharp headlights. The Scala has a sporty, coupe-inspired silhouette for a subcompact hatch.
– A surprisingly spacious interior, especially for rear seat passengers. The Scala’s interior dimensions nearly match mid-size cars.
– Fuel efficient engine options including 1.0L and 1.5L turbocharged petrol engines, as well as a 1.6L diesel. The engines provide a good blend of performance and efficiency.
– Standard tech features like a touchscreen infotainment system, wireless phone charging, and advanced safety systems like blind spot monitoring. The Scala is well-equipped for its class.
– Competitive pricing that makes it an affordable alternative to rivals like the Ford Focus and VW Golf. The Scala is priced as a value-driven model in Skoda’s lineup.
Overall, the Scala strikes an appealing balance as a stylish, spacious, and tech-savvy hatchback with Skoda’s reputation for value. It fills an important spot in Skoda’s global lineup as an entry-level model aimed at young, first-time buyers.
Scala Generations and Redesigns
The Skoda Scala has been in production since 2018 and is currently in its first generation. It is based on the MQB A0 platform from Volkswagen Group and was introduced as a replacement for the Skoda Rapid model. Some key details on the generational history of the Scala include:
First generation (2019-present): Launched in 2018 at the Paris Motor Show, this first generation Scala went on sale in 2019. It featured an updated exterior design compared to the Rapid with influences from the Vision RS concept. The interior was also completely redesigned. Two gas engines and one diesel engine were available at launch.
2021 mid-cycle refresh: In 2021, Skoda introduced a mid-cycle refresh for the Scala. This included revised exterior styling with a new front bumper and grille design. The headlights and taillights were also updated. Interior changes were minimal but included some new color and trim options. The powertrain lineup remained mostly unchanged.
The Scala is still in its first generation as of 2023. No new generation or full redesign has been revealed yet. Skoda did introduce an updated Scala in late 2022 for the 2023 model year, with subtle styling tweaks and new wheel designs. But this remains the original first generation Scala at its core (source).
Scala Models and Trims
The Skoda Scala is available in several different models and trim levels. The base model is simply called the Scala, while higher trims include the SE, SE L, and Monte Carlo (Source).
The Scala trim offers a good amount of standard equipment including LED headlights, lane assist, and a 6.5″ touchscreen. Moving up to the SE adds extras like cruise control, rear parking sensors, and keyless start. The SE L trim includes a larger 9.2″ touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and heated front seats.
The sporty Monte Carlo model comes with a different look featuring black styling elements, sports seats, and red brake calipers. It also includes lowered sports suspension and 18″ alloy wheels for improved handling (Source).
Higher trims builds upon lower ones by adding more tech, comfort, and convenience features. Each model caters to different budgets and priorities, ranging from an affordable base model to a more luxurious flagship trim.
Scala Engines and Performance
The Skoda Scala offers two petrol engine options:
- 1.0 L TSI 3-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 95 hp and 175 Nm of torque
- 1.5 L TSI 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 150 hp and 250 Nm of torque
The 1.0 L engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 10.8 seconds and has a top speed of 194 km/h. Fuel economy is rated at 18.5 km/l.
The 1.5 L engine gets a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 8.2 seconds with a top speed of 212 km/h. Fuel efficiency is lower at 14.5 km/l.
Both engines feature direct injection and turbocharging to optimize power and efficiency. The Scala offers responsive acceleration and drivability for an engaging driving experience.
Scala Interior and Exterior
The Škoda Scala features a modern and refined interior designed to appeal to buyers looking for a practical family hatchback. The dashboard follows Škoda’s minimalist design ethos, with a free-standing infotainment screen in the center and neatly arranged controls.
There is ample room in both the front and rear seats to accommodate adults comfortably. Rear legroom is a highlight, with generous space for tall passengers. The Scala offers a roomy 467-liter trunk capacity, expanding to 1,410 liters with the rear seats folded down. 60:40 split-folding rear seats allow flexible cargo space.
On the outside, the Scala features Škoda’s latest design language with sharp lines and crisp edges. The front end is characterized by a wide grille flanked by sleek headlights. Side profiling reveals an athletic stance with prominent character lines. The rear features C-shaped taillights and a discreet roof spoiler. The Scala measures 4,362mm long, 1,793mm wide, and has a 2,649mm wheelbase. There is a choice of 14 exterior colors.
Scala Technology and Infotainment
The Scala offers a range of technology and infotainment features to keep drivers connected and entertained on the road. According to Skoda’s website https://www.skoda-auto.com/models/layers/layers/skoda-scala-technology, higher trims come equipped with an Amundsen satellite navigation system with a 8″ touchscreen display. This system provides 3D mapping, integrated WiFi, and access to online services for traffic, fuel prices, parking, and weather.
For connectivity, the Scala offers SmartLink technology that enables Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink. This allows drivers to integrate their smartphones and access apps and content on the infotainment display. There are also up to four USB ports for device charging and connectivity.
The audio system differs based on trim level but can include an eight-speaker sound system with a digital equalizer. Bluetooth is standard across the range for hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming.
Entertainment is provided via the onboard DAB digital radio and integrated apps like Web Radio and Media Command. Buyers can also opt for a rear-view parking camera and voice control system on higher trims.
Scala Safety Features
The Skoda Scala comes equipped with numerous standard safety features across all trim levels. This includes airbags for both front and rear passengers, ABS brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, and tire pressure monitoring.
Available advanced safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera. Higher trims add more airbags and multi-collision braking.
The Scala was crash tested by ANCAP in 2019 and received a 5-star safety rating. It scored 90% for adult occupant protection, 87% for child occupant protection, 76% for pedestrian protection, and 95% for safety assist.
According to ANCAP’s report, protection was good for both front and side impacts. Head protection was also rated as good. The active safety systems worked well in preventing or mitigating crashes.
Overall, the Scala provides segment-leading safety with high levels of both passive and active protections. Buyers can feel reassured knowing the Scala provides excellent safety for their family.[1]
Scala Awards and Reviews
The Skoda Scala has earned positive reviews from critics for its value, interior space, fuel efficiency, and driving dynamics. Some of the key awards won by the Scala include:
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Best Small Car in the 2021 Auto Express New Car Awards[1]
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Best Compact Family Car for Value in the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards[2]
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Best Family Car in the 2020 What Car? Car of the Year Awards[3]
[1] https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/car-news/consumer-news/352973/auto-express-new-car-awards-2021-the-winners
[2] https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/awards/106378/auto-trader-new-car-awards-2021-the-winners
[3] https://www.whatcar.com/news/2020-what-car-car-of-the-year-award-winners/n20658
Reviewers have praised the Scala’s composed handling, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. TopGear noted the Scala “rides tidily” and has a “calm, settled composure.”[1] WhatCar? described the interior as “roomy” and called the Scala “one of the most comfortable small cars.”[2]
The fuel efficiency has also earned positive remarks, with AutoExpress commenting on its “impressive economy.”[3] Reviewers also highlight the value pricing and generous standard equipment. Overall, reviews indicate the Skoda Scala punches above its weight, offering a balance of practicality, efficiency and driving enjoyment.
[1] https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/skoda/scala
[2] https://www.whatcar.com/skoda/scala/hatchback/review/n19190
[3] https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/skoda/scala
Buying Advice and Ownership
If you’re in the market for a Skoda Scala, it’s important to understand pricing, deals, ownership costs, reliability, and who the car is best suited for before making a purchase.
The Scala offers strong value, with base models starting around £16,000. Higher trims add more equipment but climb to over £23,000. Incentives and discounts can sweeten purchase deals, especially on previous model years. The Scala offers lower depreciation than many rivals, so resale values are quite good.
Ownership costs are another advantage for the Scala. Real-world fuel economy ranges from 40-60 mpg depending on engine and driving habits. Insurance, maintenance, and repair costs are reasonable. The Scala has proven very reliable so far, with few major issues reported by owners.
The Skoda Scala excels as an affordable, practical family hatchback. There’s ample passenger and cargo room, paired with a high-quality cabin and user-friendly tech. The Scala is ideal for small families, commuters, and those seeking value and practicality in a compact package. While not the most exciting car to drive, it offers comfort, refinement, and versatility at an accessible price point.
