After teasing us with numerous shots and a concept car, Skoda has finally unveiled the production version of the car. Christened as Scala, the car is taking the battle to the likes of Ford Focus boasting an array of interesting features.
Skoda is offering five engine options for this car. The petrol engines are offered in two 1.0-litre variants pumping 93 and 113 horses via a 5-speed and a 6-speed grearbox respectively as well as a 1.5-litre variant churning 147bhp that gets a 6-speed gearbox along with 7-speed DSG offered as an option. The 1.6-litre diesel engine unleashes 113 ponies via a 6-speed gearbox with an optional 7-speed DSG on the menu. To make things interesting, Skoda will be offering a 1.0-litre G-Tec (CNG) engine later in 2019. The Czech giant is offering an optional “Sport chassis control” that allows the driver to switch between two chassis set-ups (normal and sport).
Staying true to their Vision RS concept study, the Scala boasts generous space and the largest boot in the segment at 467 litres. The dashboard features an exclusive texture resembling crystalline structures. The car has been pampered with ambient lighting and warm hues which provides a pleasant atmosphere. From suede seat covers to the heated windscreen and steering wheel, customers will have an array of accessories to choose from.
The Scala features LED illumination for the headlight and the tail lights with the customers having the option to go full LED and flaunt the Skoda’s first dynamic rear indicators. The car is also packed with up to nine airbags which includes driver knee airbag along with rear side airbags which are the first in the segment and things don’t end there. Scala also receives Skoda’s first 10.25 inch stand-up display.
The sports chassis control which according to Skoda adds sportiness to the car’s character. Along with the normal mode, the sports mode gives the shock absorbers a firmer character. The Scala offers Normal, sports, Eco and Individual driving modes.
Skoda has thrown in all the bells and whistles to keep the Scala at the top of its game. One such feature is the side assist that detects vehicles behind looking to overtake or are in the blind spot of the car. Other noteworthy feature is the lane as well as front assist with city emergency brakes offered as standard. Adding to the Skoda first’s list is the e-sim equipped infotainment that keeps the car online all the time which means emergency calls as well as online assistance is available. The Scala also gets an optional electric tailgate. The company offers lots of accessories that help the customers make the most out of the large boot space.
Skoda is yet to decide if the car will ever make it to our shores and if it does, it may be stripped of some of the safety features.
Words by Manaal Mahatme