Skoda Scala: Funny Name, Cool Car.
Czech manufacturer Skoda seems to slide under the radar at times. That’s a pity because the almost criminally underrated brand does make some pretty decent machines. Their Octavia wagon and sedan, and especially in RS form, is lauded by journos globally.
2020 ŠKODA SCALA 110TSI
2020 sees Skoda ramp up its attempt to be more visible in the marketplace and build upon their simple yet catchy “Simply Clever” marketing phrase.
A new small to mid-sized five door hatch is on the way. Named Scala, it builds upon the revamped design signature that Skoda introduced in 2019. It’s currently slated for a June release for Aussie showrooms and will come packed with plenty of tech and safety. There will be three models available: 110TSI, Monte Carlo, and a limited run Launch Edition.
It’ll be powered by Skoda’s potent 110TSI turbocharged petrol engine and drive the front wheels via a choice of transmissions. The good old three legger, a manual, is offered with six speeds and only in the entry level mode, or a seven-speed DSG transmission, available in each trim level.
2020 ŠKODA SCALA Monte Carlo
The lead-in variant, the 110TSI, brings with a feature list that would normally be found for thousands more. The Euro style sweeping indicator lamps which are becoming more and more popular (and are a sensible addition to any car) complement 18 inch alloys and privacy glass for the rear windows. For the humans inside adaptive cruise control, Skoda’s Smartlink smartphone pairing service, along with Android and Apple apps, plus a wireless charging pad, are also standard.
The “Virtual Cockpit”, a 10.25 inch full colour LCD display features in the driver’s binnacle. This too is standard across the three. A repositioned touchcsreen of 8.0 inches for the 110TSI/Monte Carlo and 9.2 inches for the Launch, allows access to the various onboard functions and apps, plus the audio system.
Red ambient lighting will provide a warmth to the cabin’s signature red styling in the Monte Carlo sports seats, whilst the Launch Edition will have leather trim. Monte Carlo’s passenger’s will have a panoramic sunroof as standard.
Extra standard equipment for the 110TSI includes a powered tailgate, Lane Assist, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and seven airbags. The Monte Carlo adds full LED front lighting, a dual zone climate control system, with teh front passengers having sports seats and sports pedals for the driver. The Launch Edition adds heating for the front and rear seats, body coloured door mirrors, a chrome grill frame and chrome window surrounds, Auto Parking Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Side Assist/Blind Spot Assist.
2020 ŠKODA SCALA Launch Edition
Launch pricing sees $26,990 for the 110TSI Manual, and $28,990 for the same car with the DSG transmission. Monte Carlo will start from $33,990 whilst the Launch Edition will price from $35,990. These are drive-away prices.
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