Skoda has built up a reputation for producing value-packed family-friendly models that rightly value functionality over flair.
And one of its latest products – the Scala – continues to fit in with this mould. It replaces the Rapid, and is one of the most affordable mid-size family hatchbacks on sale today.
If that sounds appealing, read on to find out what you need to know about it…
What engines are available?
If you’re looking for a Scala, you can pick between a pair of petrol options and a diesel unit.
The petrol options are the most popular, with the range starting with a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol unit available with either 94bhp or 113bhp. The less powerful option features a five-speed manual transmission, whereas the 113bhp unit is comes with the choice of either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more power, try the 148bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which is also available with the choice of manual and automatic transmissions. This is the quickest engine available, with a 0-60mph time of eight seconds and a top speed of 137mph.
Those looking for something efficient can pick the 113bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine, which is also offered with manual or gearbox choices. It will return up to 57.3mpg, with low CO2 emissions of 108g/km.
What trim levels are offered?
Four trim levels are levels on the Scala, with buyers also now able to choose a new sportier Monte Carlo grade. Equipment highlights and prices are as follows.
S – from £16,940
Standard equipment on the Scala includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and DAB radio. It also comes with plenty of safety kit, too, including lane-keep assist, high beam assist and automatic emergency braking.
SE – from £18,130
This version adds revised 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a leather steering wheel. It also adds rear parking sensors, cruise control and a larger eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring.
SE L – from £19,930
This high-spec version brings larger 17-inch alloy wheels and full LED rear lights with dynamic rear indicators. It also features keyless entry, dual-zone climate control and a top-spec 9.2-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation. A configurable digital cockpit is also fitted.
Monte Carlo – from £22,680
This top-spec version brings sportier styling through its large 18-inch alloy wheels, as well as a black styling pack, which includes the rear diffuser, door mirrors, front grille, spoiler and ‘SKODA’ lettering at the back. It also features a panoramic glass roof and an extended piece of rear glass, which is usually a pricey option on other cars. When it comes to the interior, you get part-leather sports seats black roof lining and red ambient lighting among a myriad of other features.
What about personalisation?
Skoda doesn’t offer a huge number of personalisation options on the Scala, but buyers are able to choose various alloy wheel designs available up to 18 inches in size. There are also plenty of colour choices available – including solid, metallic and pearlescent shades. Solid colours are free, including interesting shades like Race Blue, Rallye Green and Maple Brown. To make your Scala stand out, you can also opt for an extended piece of glass for the tailgate.
There are a fantastic number of conventional options on offer, too, with wireless charging (£240), adaptive cruise control (£415) and a reversing camera (£315) being worthy boxes to tick.