Skoda Scala vs. Skoda Rapid Spaceback - Old vs. New

The Skoda Scala had its world premiere in Tel Aviv, Israel this week. Here’s how it compares to the Skoda Rapid Spaceback, its predecessor.

The Scala is the first model to implement Skoda’s new design language. Compared to the Rapid Spaceback, it has a more emotive design and dynamic shape and sportier styling. Full-LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, full-LED tail lights, panoramic glass roof, ‘SKODA’ in block lettering across tailgate (a Skoda-first) and dynamic rear indicators (a Skoda-first) are some of the highlights of the exterior design.

As for the interior, the Scala features an understated design that accentuates its modern appearance and spaciousness. The dashboard, with its extensive decorative elements, and the front door trims feature a soft-foam surface with a new specific texture resembling crystalline surfaces.

For the first time in a Skoda, there’s a free-standing central touchscreen, positioned high on the dashboard, and it measures up to 9.2-inches depending on the selection of the infotainment system from the third-gen of the MIB modular infotainment matrix. Other technology highlights include 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit, Skoda Phonebox and built-in e-sim with LTE connection.

Skoda claims the Scala is the new benchmark for safety in compact cars. The company has equipped it with nine airbags (including segment-first rear side airbags), Crew Protect Assist*, Side Assist** and more.

The Skoda Scala is the Czech automaker’s first model based on the MQB A0 platform. The MQB A0 platform is for smaller cars, and so it went under some comprehensive adjustments to become compatible for this compact hatchback. The result - longest possible wheelbase (2,649 mm) and rear overhang (870 mm) for any car sitting on this platform.

The new VW Golf rival is 4,362 mm long, 1,793 mm wide and 1,471 mm tall. Its boot capacity is 467 litres - the highest in its segment. Folding down the rear seats, this figure increases to 1,410 litres.

Skoda will offer its C-segment hatchback in the following mechanical configurations***:

• 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine (95 PS/175 Nm), 5-speed MT
• 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine (115 PS/200 Nm), 6-speed MT/7-speed DSG
• 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine with ACT (150 PS/250 Nm), 6-speed MT/7-speed DSG
• 1.6-litre TDI diesel engine (115 PS/250 Nm), 6-speed MT/7-speed DSG
• 1.0-litre G-TEC petrol-CNG engine (90 PS/145 Nm), 6-speed MT

To customers desiring a sportier driving performance, Skoda will offer a sports suspension with a choice of two chassis settings (Normal and Sport). This option lowers the ride height by 15 mm.

Also Read: Skoda Karoq will not launch in India before BS6 rollout in April 2020

The Skoda Scala will go on sale in first markets as early as in H1 2019.

*Automatically closes the windows and tensions the front seat belts in the event of an impending collision
**Warns the driver of vehicles approaching from behind up to 70 m away (Rear Traffic Alert integrated)
***Brake energy recovery and Stop/Start technology is standard