Skoda Scala used cars for sale

Skoda Scala buying guide

There are a few trim and engine choices available for the Scala. This guide will talk you through each so you can choose the best version for you.

What Skoda Scala trim levels are there?

Basic Scala cars come in SE trim. Despite the entry-level billing, you still get nice touches including alloy wheels, auto lights and wipers, air conditioning, cruise control, rear parking sensors, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a basic infotainment system with smartphone mirroring, DAB radio and Bluetooth.

Stepping up to SE L trim brings larger alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, part-faux-suede upholstery, climate control, a larger infotainment system with built-in sat nav, and a digital screen in place of the driver's dials.

Range-topping Monte Carlo trim gets a panoramic glass roof along with unique interior and exterior styling details.

What's the Skoda Scala's interior and technology like?

The Scala’s cabin is an example of function over form, with an easy-to-use layout and intuitive controls. While the styling is unlikely to get pulses racing, it’s attractive enough inside and uses pleasingly soft and high quality materials. Skoda has resisted the temptation to consign all the physical buttons to the infotainment system, so you still get proper controls for the air con and heater.

The infotainment system is easy to get to grips with and includes all the key features you’d want, even on entry-level models. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the range, while mid-range SE L trim cars and above include a digital screen in place of the usual driver’s dials, which helps the cabin feel more modern.

While interior styling isn’t the Scala’s key strength, it scores extremely high marks for practicality. Adults can fit comfortably in every seat, and you can even seat five for shorter journeys. Parents will find the Scala easier to live with than the comparable Fabia hatchback thanks to having more rear seat space to make it easier to fit bulky child seats. Boot space with all seats in place will probably be enough for most day-to-day tasks, or you can fold the rear seats down if you need to carry bulkier items.

Skoda Scala engine range explained

Skoda Scala 1.0 TSI 95 petrol

The basic engine for the Scala is a 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder petrol with 95hp. This option is only offered with a manual gearbox and can average up to 54mpg if you drive with a light right foot. It can hit 62mph from rest in 10.9 seconds so will only begin to feel strained at faster motorway speeds.

Skoda Scala 1.0 TSI 110 petrol

The mid-range engine option is the same 1.0-litre turbo petrol but with power turned up to 110hp. This drops the 0-62mph time to 10.1 seconds, helping this version feel more relaxed at higher speeds. Efficiency only takes a small hit with the manual gearbox so this is our favourite engine choice in the lineup. An automatic gearbox is optionally available with this engine.

Skoda Scala 1.5 TSI 150 petrol

If you want a little more performance when you put your foot down, upgrade to the TSI 150 engine. This version swaps in a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol with 150hp. All that extra thrust drops the 0-62mph time down to hair over eight seconds, helping the 150 model feel much keener to accelerate. Efficiency remains around 49mpg whether you choose the standard manual or the optional automatic gearbox.