Skoda have unveiled their new premium hatchback, christened the Scala in Tel Aviv, Israel. The Scala will be a very important model for Skoda globally because it is the first Skoda to be built on the MQB AO platform. Developed in co-ordination with the Volkswagen Group, the MQB AO platform will spawn affordable products in the future for Skoda as well as VW.
If Skoda decides to launch the Scala in India, it would serve as a brand-building model for Skoda India.
It is likely to be launched globally next year. However, it is not yet clear whether Skoda will be launching the estate-hatch in the Indian market or not. In our opinion, it may seem a good chance for Skoda to take a risk, because the Indian public may warm up to the idea of a spacious estate-hatch having lots of practicality.
Coming back to the Scala, it will be based on Skoda’s Vision RS concept. The Scala implements a new development stage for Skoda and will feature design elements seen on the Octavia and the Superb. It will have features like LED headlamps and tail-lamps, virtual cockpit interior design, a floating touchscreen and so-on.
The Skoda Scala will compete with the likes of VW Golf, Ford Focus, Renault Megane, Hyundai i30 and Kia Ceed.
Skoda have given the Scala a range of three powertrains, namely a 1.0 litre TSI and a 1.5 litre TSI petrol along with a 1.6 litre TDI diesel motor. Both petrol versions make 95 bhp and 150 bhp respectively, while the diesel one is capable of 115 bhp. These come mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, with the 1.5 TSI also being offered in a 7-speed DSG one.
When launched in India, the Scala will be placed between the Rapid and the Octavia in Skoda’s line-up. The Scala will also form the base for Skoda’s upcoming mid-size SUV, slated to launch in 2021. We can expect Skoda to price the Scala affordably in India, given that it operates in the cost-effective MQB AO platform.
To read more on Skoda India, Click here
Also see: Skoda premium hatch may come to India in 2019
Source: AutoCarIndia
