CZECH OUT STYLISH SCALA
THIS is the latest offering from Czech manufacturer Skoda. It’s called the Scala and it’s perfect for the town or out in the country. I have just spent a few days with the newcomer, which came to the UK in July, and we got on just fine. It’s a very nice package with crisp styling and lots of technology.
A five-door hatchback, it slots between the Fabia and Octavia in the company’s line-up and will fill the gap created by dropping the Rapid.
The Scala is wider and longer than the Rapid and there are three trims to choose from called S, SE and SE-L, with prices ranging from £16,595 to £23,315.
You can select from a choice of engines. Petrol power is provided by a 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder unit with 95ps or 115ps and a four-cylinder 1.5 TSI unit with 150ps. The only diesel unit is a 1.6-litre TDI engine producing 115ps.
The Scala is certainly a goodlooking car with modern styling. It has a striking upright radiator grille, narrow, tapered LED headlights, sweeping rear indicators on the higher trim, full LED tail lights, a choice of 16 to 18-inch alloy wheels and boldly displays the Skoda name on its rump.
The spacious cabin features a
I drove the SE model powered by the lively 1.0-litre 115ps engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox which costs £18,585.
It tackled the 0-62mph sprint in 9.8 seconds, is capable of up to 125mph and, according to official figures, should deliver 44.8-49.6mpg under the stricter WLTP ratings with carbon emissions of 113g/km.
Equipment was impressively hi-tech, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, DAB radio, Bluetooth, an eight-speaker sound system and the latest USB-C ports for faster charging.
The Scala cruises quietly and smoothly at motorway speeds. The suspension soaks up all but the worst bumps, the small engine is quiet and responsive and steering is accurate.
It is packed with the latest safety features, as well as a number of driver-assist systems to help prevent accidents. There is lane assist and front assist with city emergency braking, hill hold control, a full suite of airbags, emergency call and proactive services as well as adaptive cruise control.
I enjoyed my time with this stylish newcomer. It offers fine value for money and should win more motorists over to Skoda.