We already knew the interior, we already knew its dimensions and we even had a notion of its general shapes. However, it was only yesterday that the new Skoda Scala , which not only replaces Rapid, but also sees its positioning rise, assuming itself, without a doubt, as a C-segment.
Despite being the first Skoda to use the MQB A0, the same platform as the Volkswagen Polo and SEAT Ibiza, the Scala will compete with models like the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf. And, truth be told, there are dimensions to do it.
To give you an idea, the Skoda Scala measures 4.36 m, this makes the Czech model larger, for example, than the SEAT Leon (4.28 m) or the Volkswagen Golf (4.26 m). In terms of engines, the Skoda Scala will have five engines, three petrol, one Diesel and even one powered by natural gas (CNG).
Design: the beginning of a new philosophy
Anticipated by the Vision RS prototype that the Czech brand unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, the Scala is, according to the brand, the first model to implement the new phase of Skoda's design language.
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One of the novelties in this evolution of Skoda's styling is the fact that the brand name appears on the rear instead of the logo (the Scala is the first Skoda to do this in Europe). In addition, the use of LED headlamps at the front and rear stands out, being the first model the segment to offer this type of standard lighting.
The headlights feature LED technology as standard.
Interior: space is not lacking
Inside Skoda Scala is also visible the adoption of a new design philosophy. Thus, the new Skoda model now has a touchscreen on top of the dashboard and has given up a series of buttons and physical controls, once again, a solution that we saw in advance in the Vision RS concept.
Thanks to the adoption of the MQB A0 platform, the Skoda Scala is able to offer room rates equivalent to those of the Octavia. The trunk has a capacity of 467 l, one of the largest in the segment — the (very) longest Civic manages 478 l.
The wheelbase of the Skoda Scala is 2,649 mm.
Regarding infotainment systems, the Skoda Scala is the first model from the Czech brand to be always online. This is due to the presence of an integrated eSIM card, which provides an internet connection without the need for an additional SIM card or cable connection via a smartphone.
Scala may have the SKODA Connect app, which allows you to lock or unlock the car remotely via a smartphone and even check that the windows are all closed. The Skoda Scala can count on the Virtual Cockpit with 10.25″ screen as an option and offers a 9.2″ touchscreen.
The touchscreen is the biggest highlight on the Scala's dashboard.
The engines and chassis of the Skoda Scala
In addition to having five engines, the Scala will also have, as an option, a more sporty chassis, Chassis Sport Preset, which not only brings the Scala 15 mm to the ground, but also adds a Sport driving mode, which changes the rigidity of the adjustable shock absorbers, selectable through the Driving Mode Select menu.
| Motor | power | Binary | Streaming |
| 1.0 TSI, 3 cil. | 95 hp | 175 Nm | Manual, 5 speed |
| 1.0 TSI, 3 cil. | 115 hp | 200 Nm | Manual, 6 speed, Auto. DSG, 7 speed (optional) |
| 1.5 TSI, 4 cil. | 150 hp | 250 Nm | Manual, 6 speed, Auto. DSG, 7 speed (optional) |
| 1.6 TDI, 4 cil. | 115 hp | 250 Nm | Manual, 6 speed, Auto. DSG, 7 speed (optional) |
| 1.0 G-TEC*, 3 cil. | 90 hp | 145 nm | Manual, 6 speed |
*Available later in 2019
security has not been forgotten
Thanks to the use of the new platform, Skoda was able to equip the Scala with the latest safety and driving assistance systems inherited from the higher-end models of the Volkswagen Group.
Thus, Scala offers, as options, systems such as Side Assist (which indicates to the driver when a vehicle is approaching in order to pass it), Adaptive Cruise Control and Park Assist.
As standard, the Skoda Scala has systems such as Lane Assist and Front Assist, the latter having the City Emergency Brake system that monitors the area in front of the car while driving in urban areas and is capable of braking in an emergency.
Simply Clever Solutions Remain
As it should be when talking about a Skoda, Scala also has a series of typically simply clever solutions. But in this case they go well beyond the umbrella in the driver's door or the ice scraper in the fuel filler cap.
These include an electrically retractable tow ball (just press a button on the trunk), the optional electric tailgate, including tip-to-close function, four USB ports (two at the front and two at the rear) among others solutions.
The Skoda Scala is expected to arrive at Portuguese stands in the second quarter of 2019. However, the Czech brand has yet to release prices.