Skoda Scala Review 2021
- Striking exterior design with LED headlights as standard
- Classy interior with 60/40 split rear seats
- Wide range of petrol engines to suit needs and budget
- 467-litre square boot with optional adjustable boot floor
- Extensive range of trim levels including S, SE, SE L and Monte Carlo
The Skoda Scala is certainly interesting to look at, especially in the sporty Monte Carlo trim. Borrowing design cues from the premium European manufacturers, the Scala's front end features a wide grille and pointy LED headlights. At the rear, the taillights spread across the width of the tailgate, and an optional full glass panel on top half.
Practicality is pretty impressive too, with plenty of storage features inside the cabin, including a decent-sized glovebox, a large drawer under the front seats, and a sunglasses holder above the rear-view mirror.
The Scala's 60/40 split rear seats fold almost flat, but in their upright positions, the 467-litre square shape boot takes considerably more luggage than the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf, offering plenty of bag hooks and a low load lip with optional adjustable boot floor.
Inside, the Scala boasts a classy cabin with soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and doors and piano black and chrome accents and switches. Leg and headroom are exceedingly generous for the class, even beating the spacious Ford Focus, but its slightly narrower front means that the driver and front passenger may feel a tad more intimate than in other cars in its class.
The Scala is available with an extensive range of trim levels, including the S, SE, SE L, SE Technology and Monte Carlo. The entry-level S trim gets the basics, including a 6.5-inch touchscreen with a DAB radio, Bluetooth, air conditioning and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The SE trim brings a high-definition, 8.0in touchscreen with SmartLink, cruise control, automatic lights and wipers and rear parking sensors.
The range-topping SE L and Monte Carlo trims add a 9.2-inch screen with in-built sat-nav, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED rear lights, privacy glass, climate control, electrically folding door mirrors and keyless entry/start. Monte Carlo also includes a panoramic sunroof, sports seats and extra styling details inside and out.
Under the bonnet, there's a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine available with 94bhp (TSI 95) for those on a budget, a 109bhp (TSI 110) for the best blend of performance, economy and smoothness, or a 1.5-litre 150hp (TSI 150) with extra power for those looking to carry lots of people and luggage. Transmission options include a Skoda's six-speed manual or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
In terms of drive, the Scala is one of the better-riding cars in the family car class, giving the Kia Ceed, Mazda 3, and Ford Focus a run for their money both around town and on the motorway. Yet, while its handling may not excite as much as the SEAT Leon or Honda Civic, most will enjoy the Scala's composed drive and accurate steering.
Prices for the new Skoda Scala start from£19,925.00 OTR* or to lease from £186.05 per month.
Want to get behind the wheel of the new Skoda Scala? Car leasing offers many benefits over buying with road tax, breakdown cover and free delivery direct to your door, all included in the fixed monthly price. Flexible term, mileage and initial rental options are also available to suit your budget, needs and requirements.
*'On the road' price correct at time of publication and typically includes one year’s road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Always check with the manufacturer.
