The Scala is the first Skoda based on new MQB A0 platform of VW and the hatchback also debut the all-new design language of the brand
Skoda has officially revealed the new Scala hatchback, which will replace the ageing Rapid in the portfolio. The company has given an all-new design theme for Scala as the hatchback took inspirations from the Vision RS Concept showcased at the Paris Motor Show earlier this year and we could see a hot hatchback version of Scala sometime in the future.
The front gets small headlamps, which extend towards the front grille and the company is offering full LED headlamps with dynamics turn signals as part of the options list. The rear also comes with LED tail lamps and To make the hatchback upmarket, Skoda name is written in the hatchback door instead of the logo.
The Scala is based on MQB A0 platform and it is the first product to be based on this new VW platform. The hatchback measures 4362 mm length, 1793mm width and 1471 mm height. The wheelbase of Scala is 2649 mm and the boot capacity is 467 litres, which can be further extended by folding down the rear seats to 1410 mm.
According to Skoda, future models from the brand will be based on this new design language. The interior design also takes a different approach as the dashboard gives the impression of a premium car. The three spoke multi-function steering wheel is similar to current cars and the infotainment screen is placed on the dashboard rather integrated into it.
The Scala comes with optional 10.25 digital instrument cluster and 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with usual connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but this system comes with over-the-air updates, which is lacking in current generation systems and it can be connected to online always.
Skoda is currently offering the Scala with five engine options. The entry-level petrol engine will be a 1.0 L TSI engine with two different outputs – 95 PS & 175 Nm and 115 PS & 200 Nm. The 1.5 L TSI puts out 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque. The Scala gets a single diesel engine option, which is a 1.6 L unit producing 115 PS and 250 Nm. The lower 1.0 L TSI engine is mated to 5-speed manual gearbox.
The other engine options come with 6-speed manual transmission as standard and optional 7-speed DSG. The company also offers 1.0 L G-TEC CNG engine with 90 PS and 145 Nm, mated to 6-speed manual gearbox. The Scala gets a new system called Sport Chassis Control, which will lower the hatchback by 15 mm to improve handling.
The Scala comes with lots of features like wireless charging, remote door unlocking with Skoda app, keyless, adaptive cruise control, rear-view camera, automatic park assist, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist and more. The meaning of Scala in Latin is a ladder and the company decided to use it to represent the improvements in the new model compared to its predecessor.
VW-Skoda future cars for India will be based on the MQB-AO-IN platform and Skoda has already announced that they will bring at least 2 new cars every year in India from 2020. The company hasn’t confirmed whether it will bring this model as the manufacturers are yet to bring big hatchbacks to India.