This is the new Skoda Scala (2019)

Skoda kept their word and revealed the production version of La Scala on Thursday night (December 6th) in Tel Aviv. In recent weeks, the Czechs have already presented basic information about Rapid's successor. Among other things, the cockpit and technical data have already been revealed. And in a street art video, the car was almost unmasked. However, Skoda kept some secrets until the official presentation. With the Vision RS study, there was already a concrete vision of the newcomer to the 2018 Auto World.

© Skoda

Attack of established competitors

With the new Scala, Skoda is launching for the first time a real attack against the established competition of the compact class. Because the Octavia is too bulky for a compact model and the Rapid Spaceback, now aging, mixes Polo and Golf V techniques. Of course, the Scala but not the raid in its own group – here it comes to side of the Golf on the Seat Leon and the Audi A3, but especially competitors like Kia Ceed, Hyundai i30, Peugeot 308, Renault Megane, Opel Astra or Ford Focus.

© Skoda

Dimensions, space and design

With its dimensions, the Scala fits perfectly to the compact class: it measures 4,362 millimeters long, 1,793 millimeters wide and 1,471 millimeters high. The 2649 millimeter wheelbase is located at the golf course (2.63 m). Skoda promises a generous space in both rows, which should almost get closer to Octavia, much longer. The knee measures 73 mm (Octavia: 73 mm), the clearance for the elbows of the rear seats increases to 1,425 mm (Octavia: 1,449 mm). And the volume of the Scala trunk even sets new standards in the compact class. It ranges from 467 to 1,410 liters. Visually, we can certainly see the Scala. It is not as sporty as the RS Vision on the road, but overall, the compact gives a consistent impression. The proportions are balanced and the flat rear window gives off a little dynamism. In addition, the sideline is marked by a striking edge of light. The forehead is very horizontal. The width of the grid and the air intake flat in the lower part of the deck dominate here. The optional LED headlights offer a striking view. Skoda also offers LED taillights and dynamic indicators (rear). These are not yet available on any model of the brand. Another novelty Skoda: the Scala is the first European production model of the brand, in which, instead of the logo of the inscription "Skoda", centered on the hatchback. This should be of better quality and better express the self-confidence of Skoda. In other markets, such as China, this approach has already been taken through different models.

© Skoda

New cockpit layout

The cockpit of La Scala is very similar to that of the Vision RS study. In the compact model, Skoda's design elements are used for the first time to transfer the design of the body to the interior. For example, on the dashboard, a line of characters surrounding the raised freestanding screen quotes the lines of the hood. Under the display is a tray for the hand that controls the touch screen. To create a high-quality print, there is a soft foam surface with large-scale decorations. In addition, the dashboard and door panels have a new specific grain. In addition, Scala passengers can enjoy ambient lighting with optional white or red light as well as contrasting color seams on the seat trim.

© Skoda

Fully networked

The bestsellers of the compact class must also define the successor of Rapid in the size of its screens. The optional virtual cockpit (group of digital instruments), flexibly configurable, measures 10.25 inches and offers the driver five different views. Depending on the needs, the driver can use conventional round instruments, a large navigation chart or vehicle data. For the infotainment systems available, the diagonal of the touch screen can reach 9.2 inches. As it is at the very top of the dashboard, it is optimal in the field of view and easy to reach. About new online services available from Skoda Connect Owners can lock and unlock their vehicle via their smartphone and update infotainment system software or the "over the air" navigation map. So, you do not have to go to the extra workshop. As the first model of the brand, La Scala will always be online. The integrated SIM card (eSIM) establishes an Internet connection via LTE. As standard, the eSIM supports the features of emergency call (emergency call automatically after an accident) and Proactive service.

© Skoda

engines

At launch, the new compact model includes five different turbocharged engines, all of which meet the Euro 6d Temp emission standard and are already in use in other Group models. Among them are three gasoline and a diesel. Later in 2019, a natural gas engine (CNG) will be added. The on-off system and recovery of braking energy are always on board.

The 1.0 TSI 95 hp gives its power via a 5-speed manual transmission. The identical 115-hp three-cylinder is equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox or, upon request, a 7-speed automatic DSG. The top gasoline engine is 1.5 TSI. The four-cylinder provides 150 hp, is off and comes standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. On request, a 7-speed DSG is available. All gasoline engines are equipped with Otto particle filters. The 1.6 TDI four-cylinder mobilizes 115 hp and applies a torque of 250 Nm to the crankshaft. An SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection and diesel particulate filter is included as standard. The diesel is coupled as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox, the 7-speed DSG is optional. At the end of 2019, a 90 hp natural gas variant will follow.

© Skoda

landing gear

The standard suspension is purposefully designed with ease. For dynamic natures, there is the "sport chassis presetting" in the additional list, which offers two different polls. The chassis is lowered by 15 millimeters and has, in addition to the normal mode, a sport mode with a harder feature of the switchable switch via a valve damper. The change between the two parameters is controlled in the driving profile selection menu. Selecting the driving mode,

© Skoda

support systems

Like every new model of a large manufacturer, Scala has a multitude of support systems. Some are even standard on board. These include the lane departure warning and the front radar assistant, including the emergency braking function of the city. The latter monitors the area in front of the vehicle by radar in the city and initiates emergency braking if necessary. L & # 39; option Side Assist indicates to the driver when approaching from behind vehicles that want to overtake or who are in the blind spot. While the famous lane change assistant has a maximum range of 20 meters, the Side Assist system can detect vehicles up to 70 meters. The assistant Auspark, who warns against cross-border traffic, is also part of the side assistances. The optional Automatic Distance Control (ACC) is provided for long distance motorway trips up to 210 km / h. Another highlight is the optional park steering assistant, who automatically manages the Scala in the longitudinal and transverse parking spaces and during maneuvers.

>>> Read more: Skoda presents the new Scala at the shoot of a video

conclusion

With the Scala, Skoda could spin the compact class properly spoiled. In Austria, the brand has a very good reputation. In this country, only the main brand of the parent company Volkswagen sells more cars a year. With the Scala, the gap with VW could be further reduced and the lead over other manufacturers could be further increased. If the Czechs maintain their proven concept of offering a lot of cars at a reasonable price, nothing seems to stand in the way of great success. Because technically, the spacious newcomer is absolutely up to date. The new Scala will be available in the spring of 2019 – probably in May. Prices will be revealed at the beginning of the order at the beginning of next year.

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