Skoda Spaceback 1.6 TDI 90 CV Road Test (exterior design, interior space and cargo capacity)

The second part of our road test of the Skoda Spaceback 1.6 TDI 90 CV, after having detailed its performance and consumption in the previous instalment, in this second part we will offer an analysis of its design as well as its interior space and cargo capacity in this compact from Skoda.

Exterior design: sober, practical, different

As for exterior design, the first thing that comes to mind is the comparison between the Spaceback and its ‘sibling’ saloon, the Skoda Rapid. The two cars are practically identical up to the C-pillar, perhaps a little before it; the Skoda Spaceback inherits the exterior styling of the saloon with its own touch at the rear.

It is a sober design, with the main identity features we have seen on the latest models from the Czech brand: headlights, front grille and badge. The profile of the Spaceback looks very clean, with a flowing line from front to rear, whose modification blends very well with the rest of the whole.

But let us get into detail by comparing the dimensions of the Skoda Rapid with those of the Spaceback. The Rapid measures 4,483 mm in length, 1,706 mm in width and 1,461 mm in height. Meanwhile, the Spaceback measures 4,304 mm in length, the same 1,706 mm in width, while its height comes to 1,459 mm. The Spaceback is 18 cm shorter than the Rapid.

To try to offset this sobriety of the Spaceback’s exterior design, Skoda has opted for some elements to give this compact a more ‘youthful’ touch. The black roof, rear spoiler and tailgate half black and half in body colour give it a slightly more modern look.

In short, we could say that the exterior design of the Skoda Spaceback is balanced. Despite sharing features clearly identical to those of the Rapid, it has touches that set it apart from the saloon; if we take into account optional accessories, body paint and wheels, the look can be remarkably different.

Interior design: more sobriety, plenty of functionality

Once inside the Skoda Spaceback, we find lines, materials and layout that are very sober, clearly inherited from the Volkswagen Group, as seen in the instrument screen and centre console to mention just a few. As expected, it benefits from components of other models – and generations – of the VW Group.

But beyond that similarity with other models, what stands out in the Spaceback’s cabin is the interior space. The room inside is really good for all occupants, plenty of legroom for the driver, and shoulder and hip room that also stand out. In short, there is more than enough room to travel comfortably.

The feel of the materials is good, the steering wheel is a correct size and all the controls are within reach of the hands and in view of the eyes. The driving position is good, aided by a comfortable seat with adequate support, and also by a glazed area that provides good visibility.

The conclusion is clear: the cabin of the Skoda Spaceback is simple, uncomplicated, but offers the comfort needed to get the most out of the car. Driver, front passenger and rear occupants will travel very comfortably, whether on short trips or long journeys, in town, on country roads or motorways.

Cargo capacity: a great asset

Without doubt, this is one of the main features of the Skoda Spaceback. Its saloon sibling has a cargo capacity of 550 litres, in the case of the compact, the volume is reduced to 415 litres, which is still sufficient and places it very well against its rivals such as the Citroën C4 (408), Renault Megane (405), Peugeot 308 (398), Seat León (380), Ford Focus (363). It is on a par with the Nissan Note, but well behind the outright leader, the Honda Civic, with 477 litres.

The tailgate, wide and with a more than adequate opening angle, together with the height of the loading lip, make loading and handling luggage easy. A great strength of the Skoda and, once again, the term ‘balance’ appears, since we are dealing with a compact that handles very well in urban environments while at the same time offering comfort for long journeys, and its boot capacity is ideal for trips with 4 adults and their luggage.

We bring the second part of this road test of the Skoda Spaceback 1.6 TDI 90 CV to a close. In the third and final instalment we will review its equipment, versions, prices, as well as general opinions and a final verdict.