Škoda Scala, first official details and camouflaged images of the new Czech compact

Just a few days ago Škoda gave us a first teaser of its new addition to the lineup, the Scala, a model that will mark the brand’s entry into the compact segment for the first time, one of the most crowded and sought-after alongside SUVs, to rival other models such as the Volkswagen Golf or the SEAT León if we look within the VAG group itself.

The Vision RS concept as the example for its design

We will probably see the new Škoda Scala in all its glory before the end of this year; in fact, the brand will not take long to put it on sale, since its arrival on the market is scheduled for the first quarter of 2019. That is why Škoda, despite showing us the Scala still covered by its camouflage, has wanted to reveal its first details, a model that, incidentally, will have certain reminiscences of the Vision RS prototype that we saw at the last Paris Motor Show.

Škoda says that beneath all that camouflage we will find a compact with sculptural shapes, combined with dynamic elements and precise details, a model that will mark a new phase in the design language of the Czech brand. The Škoda Scala will use the well-known A0 MQB platform of the VAG Group, with dimensions typical of the segment, being 4,362 mm long, 1,793 mm wide and 1,471 mm high, in addition to a wheelbase of 2,649 mm. Furthermore, when it is unveiled, we will find front and rear light units that may be Full-LED optionally, and it will be the first Škoda model to feature dynamic turn indicators.

Inside, the new Škoda Scala will have nothing to envy from other models such as the Octavia in terms of dimensions, although logically these are slightly smaller. Even so, comfort for all occupants will be ensured, with a boot capacity of 467 litres that places it among the largest in the segment, expandable up to 1,410 litres if the rear seats are folded down. As is customary at Škoda, the Czech brand has also incorporated several Simply Clever solutions designed to make life easier, such as the retractable tow bar operated by a button in the boot, the umbrella compartment in the driver’s door, or an ice scraper under the fuel filler cap.

Furthermore, as you can imagine, the Škoda Scala will make use of modern technologies for its occupants, such as the configurable Virtual Cockpit consisting of a 10.25-inch screen, a 9.2-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, Škoda Connect mobile services or high-speed LTE internet connection thanks to a built-in eSIM. To all this we must add the latest safety advances that we can already find on virtually any vehicle on the market, such as Blind Spot Detection, Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Park Assist, or up to nine airbags, among many other systems.

Petrol will be the star of its engines

Mechanically, the Škoda Scala will offer a selection of five engines to meet the needs of its customers, with petrol taking the main role: three petrol engines and one diesel, to which another CNG-compatible engine will be added later in the year. All of them, as expected, will comply with the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard.

Breaking them down, on the petrol side we first find the 1.0 TSI engine, which delivers 95 CV of power paired with a five-speed manual gearbox; followed by another 1.0 TSI which in this case raises its power to 115 CV and can be paired with a six-speed gearbox or, optionally, the seven-speed DSG automatic; while the most powerful option is the 1.5 TSI, which delivers 150 CV and can also be chosen with a manual or DSG automatic gearbox.

On the diesel side, the only option is the 1.6 TDI engine with 115 CV and 250 Nm of torque, paired as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox or optionally with the DSG automatic. For the natural gas variant, or CNG, there is the well-known 1.0 G-TEC found in other VAG Group models, an engine delivering 90 CV and paired exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Finally, the new Škoda Scala will also allow dynamic improvements, which translate into greater driving sensations and sporty handling, all thanks to the optional Sport Chassis Preset system. Through this system we will have two settings: Normal and Sport, with which the ride height can be lowered by 15 mm and the suspension stiffened, thanks to valve-adjustable dampers.

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackSkoda Scala9 versions · from 28,000 €