Skoda Scala review

In general, the best thing about the Scala is that even with the more modest specifications, it doesn't feel like it's been stripped back, with lots of reminders of what you didn’t option. You don’t look like a cheapskate with the base spec, in other words.

Everything feels robust if not granite solid, there are some decent textures, some slightly plasticky ones and a few really nice touches. 

The dash layout is simple but clear, the interior design modest and clean. The seats are flat but comfy (the sports seats – standard on Monte Carlo trim, optional elsewhere – are really very swish, but not worth the extra), the set-up VW-familiar, the control surfaces as easy as a video game.

VW-FAMILIAR? THAT DOESN’T SOUND GOOD…

Don’t panic – the Scala mostly avoids the pitfalls of other VW Group products. Base spec models get an 8in infotainment screen as standard, with the mid- and range-toppers getting 9.2in units, but there are buttons for all the things you’d like buttons for, while the touchscreen itself is responsive and useful. 

In even better news you also get individual climate controls, complete with temperature, fan speed and airflow rotary knobs. It's a damn sight better than in the MkVIII Golf. 

HOW MUCH SPACE IS THERE?

Skoda claims the Scala features one of the largest boots in its segment, and 467 litres (1,410 litres with the split back seats folded down) is indeed huge for its class, with a VW Golf only managing 380 litres, a Ford Focus 375 litres, and a Kia Ceed and Hyundai i30 a like-for-like 395 litres.

There’s also generous space for rear passengers and wide back doors – Skoda really does know what practical looks like, and it plays to its strengths here. If you’ve got kids/dogs/an active hobby, you’ll know that all these things matter. Not stuff you necessarily show off about in the pub, but things that matter day-to-day.