What's all this about?
The well-received Skoda Vision RS concept previews a new hatchback called the Scala. The model is said to resemble the Paris Motor Show concept car closely and marks a repositioning of the brand's models. Set to go up against established hatchbacks like the Ford Focus, Kia Ceed and Volkswagen Golf, the Scala will need to be an impressive package if it is to win a share of what is already a highly competitive segment.
So what's the name about?
The Scala name is Latin for 'stairs' or 'ladder', making it an ideal name considering the plans that Skoda has for this car. Skoda confidently says that the new car perfectly embodies "smart understatement". We'll have to wait until the car is revealed in full in early December to see if that's true.
What engines will it have?
We don't yet know what the engine range for the Scala will consist of, but it is likely to start with the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit that is currently available in the Karoq and Octavia. We're expecting also to see a larger capacity petrol engine, possibly a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder, while the prospect of at least one diesel option is also on the cards.
Will there be a hybrid?
There's a high likelihood that Skoda will skip conventional hybrid technology and move straight to a plug-in hybrid, but this option may not be offered initially from launch. Skoda's first plug-in hybrid will come with the updated Superb in 2019.
Dave Humphreys - 15 Oct 2018