The UK is gaining two Scalas in 2019 – the new classical music radio station launched last week, and the Skoda Scala that goes on sale in the summer.
Debuted at this month’s Geneva motor show, the Scala replaces the Rapid as Skoda’s Focus-sized family hatch. Dealers will start taking orders for it in May, with first deliveries in the summer.
The Scala is the first Skoda to use Volkswagen Group’s MQB A0 platform that already underpins the SEAT Ibiza and Volkswagen T-Roc. It is evolved from the Vision RS concept that Skoda unveiled at the 2018 Paris motor show, and styling details from that concept remain in the production model – notably the optional all-glass rear screen.
UK buyers of the Scala will have a choice of with three petrol engines and a single diesel. Petrol options are 1.0-litre units with either 95hp or 115hp or a 1.5 with 150hp. The diesel is a 1.6-litre unit with 115hp.
Six-speed manual transmissions will be standard but all bar the 95hp petrol will also be available with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
The Scala will be sold in three trims – Skoda’s familiar S, SE and SE L grades. Entry-level S models start from £16,595 and highlights of the specification include 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, leather on the steering wheel, gear and handbrake lever, air-conditioning, DAB digital radio and an infotainment system with a six-inch screen.
Skoda’s Front Assist system, which incorporates autonomous emergency braking, tops the standard safety equipment.
Mid-range SE versions cost from £18,580 and extra equipment includes cruise control, rear parking sensors, an upgraded infotainment system with eight-inch touchscreen and an integrated umbrella in the door.
Range topper is the SE L at £20,380 and this includes Skoda’s new Amundsen infotainment system with nine-inch glass touchscreen, digital cockpit display, climate control air conditioning, keyless entry with start/stop and a colour multifunction trip computer.
Other SE-L features include 17-inch alloy wheels, full LED rear lights, dynamic indicators privacy glass on the rear windows and bespoke interior trim.