With the SCALA, you can take your pick of the 1.0 and 1.5 TSI petrol engines or the 1.6 TDI diesel engine. They all feature direct injection as well as a turbocharger and, of course, meet the latest emission standards. The power ranges from 70 to 110 kW, and is transmitted to the front wheels. Three types of transmission are available: a 5- or 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic and 7-speed DSG gearbox. The 1.0 G-TEC/66 kW engine – combining petrol and CNG – is a cost-effective option.

Sitting at the wheel of the SCALA will make you see the notion of driving pleasure in a whole new light. Grip the multifunction steering wheel and stay keep abreast of what’s happening with the customisable Virtual Cockpit including five different layouts. If you like a dynamic ride, Sport Chassis Control is made for you. This lowers the SCALA’s chassis by 15 mm and adds adjustable shock absorbers with two modes – Normal and Sport. The dynamic Sport mode delivers firmer features for a sportier experience.

Occupants are protected by up to 9 airbags that work in tandem with the seat belts. The Isofix and Top Tether systems are used to improve the protection of children in infant carriers. If an accident is unavoidable, passengers are prepared for impact by Crew Protect Assist which, in the front, closes the windows and activates belt pretensioning. ESC, ABS and many other systems also keep an eye on the car when it is on the go.

The powerful new full LED headlights, featuring three crystal “stones” and characteristic lashes, tie in with the dynamic design. The razor-sharp designed full LED tail lights shine in the brand-typical ‘C’ shape. Another of this version’s tempting virtues is the dynamic rear indicator and tail light extending into the tailgate.

Inching forward a bit at a time, passing pedestrians, etc. The ŠKODA SCALA’s job is to make this easier for you. The Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitor can alert you or stop the car in the event of an imminent collision with another vehicle or a person. The Side Assist detects vehicles approaching from behind or that are in the car’s blind spot up to 70 m away, so it also effective at warning the driver of hazardous situations on multi-lane roads and motorways.

When you buy a SCALA, all your parking worries are over. Park Assist semi-automatically guides the car into perpendicular parking spaces, and in and out of parallel spots. You’ll also appreciate the Rear-view camera when parking. Rear Traffic Alert will help you exit a line of cars as it detects whether another car is approaching and alerts you in good time. Park Distance Control with Manoeuvre Assist makes sure you don’t hit any obstacles when manoeuvring the car in tight spaces.

When you’re on the motorway, systems are ready to help by taking over some of the driving for you. Adaptive Cruise Control drives the car at a set speed, slows down when it closes the gap with the car ahead, and accelerates again when the road is open. Lane Assist uses a camera to read road markings and warns if the car starts to veer out of lane. Hundreds of miles on the motorway will always test the limits of your stamina. Driver Alert ensures you don’t take risks – it alerts you if you need to take a break.

Maintain optimal lighting and steering assistance when you move away from city and motorway lights. Auto Light Assist automatically turns the full beam on and off depending on the current lighting conditions and traffic situation.