The hatchback comes with a load of new features which are new for its segment and will be available in 5 variants.
Skoda has lifted the covers off their new premium hatchback which is called the Scala. The hatchback will re-position Skoda’s place in the compact car segment, the company said. The Skoda Scala hosts multiple safety features and has been revealed in Tel Aviv, Israel.
The Skoda Scala comes with the new design language of the company. It has the name ‘Skoda’ written across the tailgate instead of the logo. The interiors are based on the VISION RS concept study and incorporates within it good ergonomics as well. The vehicle sits on 18-inch alloy wheels. There are also options to add a heated windscreen and heated steering wheel to provide better comfort while driving.
The vehicle comes with 5 engine variants, where the petrol-powered options vary from two 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder TSI engines and a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder TSI engine which can generate power outputs of 93.8 HP, 113.9 and 147.5 HP and torque figures between 175-250 Nm. The diesel variant comes with a 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder TDI engine which can churn out a maximum power of 113.9 HP and peak torque of 250 Nm. A CNG-powered variant is also made available which has a 1.0 G-TEC, 3-cylinder engine with a capacity of 88.5 HP power and torque of 145 Nm. The CNG variant will be launched later in 2019.
All engines will comply with Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards. The option of a Sport Chassis Control is also made available, though it is optional. This allows the driver to switch between the two driving modes available – Normal and Sport. While the 1.0-litre TSI engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, all other variants come with a 6-speed transmission and a 7-speed DSG is also made available to these models.
The Scala also comes with many assistance systems which were previously available only for the higher-priced segments. These include the Side Assist function, Adaptive Cruise Control, Park Assist, Lane Assist and Front Assist with City Emergency Brake. While the former three are optional, the latter two come as standard with the vehicle.
The Scala hatchback hosts LED headlights and tail lights as standard, with full LED versions made available as an option and dynamic rear indicators, which is a first for the company. The car comes with up to nine airbags including one for the driver’s knee. Optional rear side airbags are also available for the first time in this segment.
Other optional safety features include the proactive occupant protection system Crew Protect Assist. This serves to automatically close windows and reinforces tension on the front seat belts well before a collision can take place.
A much awaited feature of the Skoda Scala is the optional Virtual Cockpit which has a 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system is also digital. The car also houses the latest connectivity options and can be unlocked by phone. An inbuilt eSIM with LTE connection keeps the Scala online all the time.
A number of Simply Clever features come with the Skoda Scala package, which include an electric tailgate, Tip-To-Close function and a retractable tow bar. This is electrically unlocked at the push of a button in the boot.
The Skoda Scala seems like a very promising product but we aren’t sure whether this car will be launched in the Indian market or not. Even if Skoda does decide to bring it here, we’re not expecting it before 2020.
Skoda Scala Global Reveal
– Premiered at Tel Aviv, Israel
– Comes in petrol and diesel variants, CNG variant will be launched in 2019
– Houses many new features and India launch is unclear
