Skoda Scala review

Interior

Dashboard & tech

The Scala’s interior is a lesson in straightforward, user-friendly design. The dashboard is neat and logical, with everything exactly where you’d expect to find it. Entry-level models come with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, but most versions you’ll find have a larger 8-inch or 9.2-inch screen that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless phone connectivity.

All models get air conditioning and LED headlights as standard, which is a nice touch. Moving up the range adds features like a stunning digital driver’s display (Virtual Cockpit), cruise control, and rear parking sensors. It’s all very functional and easy to get along with every day.

Comfort

The Scala is a comfortable car to spend time in. The seats are supportive, and there’s enough adjustment for the driver to get settled for a long trip. The ride is generally smooth, soaking up most bumps and potholes without much fuss, making for a relaxing experience for everyone on board.

It’s also a quiet car at motorway speeds, which helps reduce fatigue on longer journeys. Even with the optional panoramic sunroof fitted, there’s still plenty of headroom, so passengers won’t feel cramped.

Quality

Skoda is known for building solid, durable cars, and the Scala is no exception. While it might not have the premium flair of a Volkswagen Golf, the materials feel built to last, and everything is screwed together tightly. The main touchpoints, like the steering wheel and gear lever, feel good to use.

You’ll find some harder, scratchier plastics lower down in the cabin, but that’s common in this class and they feel like they’ll stand up to the rigours of family life. Higher-spec SE L models add soft microsuede upholstery and chrome details, which lift the cabin’s atmosphere.

Practicality & boot space

Interior space

This is where the Skoda Scala really shines. Despite being based on similar underpinnings to the smaller Volkswagen Polo, it’s one of the most spacious cars in its class. There’s lots of headroom and legroom in the front, and rear-seat passengers are treated to more space than you’ll find in many larger cars.

Two adults can sit comfortably in the back on a long journey, and there’s enough room for three on shorter trips. You’ll also find two sets of Isofix points for securely fitting child seats. Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ features are dotted around too, like the famous umbrella hidden away for a rainy day.

Boot space

The Scala’s boot is enormous for a car of this size. At 467 litres, it’s significantly bigger than what you get in a Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra. This means you’ll have no trouble fitting in a couple of large suitcases, a bulky pushchair, or the spoils of a big weekly shop.

The boot opening is wide and the load lip isn’t too high, making it easy to load heavy or awkward items. It’s a genuinely practical space that’s perfect for growing families.

Versatility

Need even more space? The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split, opening up a massive 1,410-litre load area that’s perfect for those trips to the DIY store or for moving bulky items. There are also plenty of useful storage cubbies around the cabin for phones, wallets, and drinks, making it an easy car to keep tidy. The Scala proves that you don’t need a big SUV to get impressive practicality.

Driving

Driving experience

The Scala is set up for comfort and ease of use rather than thrilling performance. The steering is light and accurate, which makes it easy to manoeuvre around town and simple to park. On the open road, it feels safe, stable, and predictable.

It’s not a car that encourages you to seek out a twisty B-road, as rivals like the Ford Focus are more fun to drive. However, for the daily commute, school run, or long motorway cruises, the Scala’s calm and composed nature is a real strength. It does exactly what a good family car should do, without any drama.

Performance

The engine range is straightforward, with a choice of efficient petrol engines and a diesel. The most common is the 1.0-litre TSI petrol, which comes with either 94bhp or a more flexible 114bhp. The 114bhp version is a great all-rounder, with enough power for motorways while still being economical.

For more performance, there's a 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine with 148bhp. It’s noticeably quicker and feels effortless, making it a great choice if you regularly carry a full car. There’s also a 1.6-litre diesel for high-mileage drivers. You can choose between a slick manual gearbox or a seven-speed DSG automatic, though the auto can sometimes be a little slow to respond from a standstill.

Running costs

Fuel economy & CO2 emissions

Whichever engine you choose, the Scala is an affordable car to run. The diesel is the champion of economy, officially capable of up to 60.1mpg. However, the petrol engines are impressively efficient too. The popular 1.0-litre TSI can return around 50mpg, while even the powerful 1.5-litre TSI can manage over 45mpg.

CO2 emissions are low across the board, which means your annual Vehicle Excise Duty (car tax) will be inexpensive. This also makes the Scala an attractive option for company car drivers.

Value for money

Value is one of the Scala’s biggest selling points. It was priced very competitively when new, undercutting most of its main rivals. This translates into excellent value on the used market, where you can get a nearly-new, well-equipped family car for the price of a much smaller supermini. Generous equipment levels, even on entry-level trims, add to the appeal.

Reliability & Warranty

Skoda has a stellar reputation for reliability, consistently performing well in owner satisfaction surveys. The Scala feels solidly built and uses proven parts from the wider Volkswagen Group. From new, Skodas come with a three-year/60,000-mile warranty, which is standard for the industry.

Safety

Safety features

The Skoda Scala received a full five-star safety rating from the experts at Euro NCAP, with particularly high scores for adult and child occupant protection. All models come with important safety features as standard, including autonomous emergency braking, which can help prevent a collision, and lane-keep assist to stop you from drifting out of your lane.

This standard-fit safety kit is a real plus point and gives you extra peace of mind. Higher-spec models also add features like cruise control and rear parking sensors to make driving even safer and easier.

Trims & Engines

Trim levels

The Scala comes in a few clear trim levels. S is the entry point, but it’s far from basic, with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen.

Most buyers will find the mid-spec SE is the sweet spot. It adds desirable features like cruise control, rear parking sensors, an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, and an umbrella.

SE L adds a touch of luxury with larger 17-inch alloys, a bigger 9.2-inch sat-nav system, a digital cockpit display, and microsuede upholstery. For those wanting a sportier look, the Monte Carlo trim sits at the top of the range, adding a panoramic roof, a black styling pack, and unique interior details.

Engines

The engine line-up is simple and effective. Most Scalas are fitted with the 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine, available with either 94bhp (paired with a five-speed manual) or 114bhp (with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG automatic). The 114bhp version is the pick of the two for its added flexibility.

A more powerful 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine produces 148bhp and offers brisk performance, available with either a manual or automatic gearbox. For drivers who cover a lot of miles, a frugal 1.6-litre TDI diesel engine was also offered, which provides excellent fuel economy for motorway cruising.

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