Škoda Scala

Pragmatic European hatchback engineering never goes any better than that which is reflected in the new Škoda Scala – modern lines and superb functionality combined together. Sitting under the Octavia but on top of the Fabia, this Scala makes an excellent case for itself by its nicely thought-out design and great list of attractions that do make it an appealing, pragmatically attractive buy into the increasingly fashionable compact area.

Exteriorly the Scala scores big-time with the profiled form and with aerodynamic curves. The Scala is available in some of the most striking colors from the palette, such as Velvet Red and Steel Grey. Its expressive front grille and sharp LED headlights have helped it achieve a rather confident stance. The length of 4,362 mm and the wheelbase of 2,649 mm provide both a spacious cabin and sleek exterior proportions and offer ample legroom to passengers and sufficient boot capacity of 467 liters which can be expanded up to 1,410 liters.

It is under the hood where things get interesting-the Scala is offered with frugal yet sprightly powerplants, namely a 1.0L turbocharged inline-3 and the more potent 1.5L inline-4. Both offer outputs that range from 110hp to 150hp, although torque peaks at 200–250 Nm, promising silky-smooth acceleration as well as sufficient highway travel. The front-wheel drive chassis mated with a 7-speed DSG automatic or a 5-speed manual gearbox gives it flexible driving dynamics suited for city as well as high-way driving. Scala is equipped with a wonderful mileage of 16–18 km/l, which gives this car further reasons to be in the market.

Inside, however is where the Scala can become truly practical. You’ll find dual-zone automatic climate control, and also seat options made of fabric, or available leatherette to keep things comfortable and right. Entertainment on the road is not a problem. An intuitive 8 or 10.25 inch infotainment screen puts connectivity via USB or aux inputs within easy reach and provides all the connectivity any driver may need to remain entertained. A modern take on digital information cluster gives necessary information in clear, concise forms.

Safety has been paid high priority, with six airbags, ABS, EBD, traction control and vehicle stability control as standards. Technologies such as Hill start assist and speed sensing auto door locks add additional layers of safety for both drivers and passengers. Its addition of ISOFIX child seat anchors and Child locks are a testament of how Škoda thinks for the family.

The suspension system of Scala includes MacPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam in the rear, which gives it a ride that is very smooth and balanced. The brakes of the front have ventilated discs, and those in the rear have solid discs, which provides the braking ability and stability of the Scala. The electrically assisted rack and pinion steering of Scala makes it very easy to maneuver in any given tight urban space, as the minimum turning radius of Scala is 5.2 m.

Outdoors, 16-18 inch alloy wheels contribute much to the sporty characteristic of Scala while offering an amazingly comfortable ride. With the PCD at 5×112 mm, one is able to install the car with various types of tyres, hence there will be more scope to customise as per driving requirements.

The Škoda Scala can be summarized by design, practicability, and high-tech integration. Its well-to-do combination of effective engines, a comfortable cabin, and more than excellent safety features will offer an above-average price-value ratio. For people who need a car that is both compact, stylish, and family-oriented, the Scala is the right competitor.