New 2024 Skoda Scala hatch freshens up

The Skoda Scala hatchback has received a wide-ranging mid-life update in a bid to remain competitive against the likes of the Mazda3 and latest Mk8 Volkswagen Golf.

Set to arrive in Australia early next year, the overhaul for the 2024 Skoda Scala mirrors those applied to the Skoda Kamiq small SUV, which is based on the same Volkswagen Group MQB A0 platform.

See our separate story on the new 2024 Skoda Kamiq here.

Design revisions for the Scala include new front and rear bumpers, a resculpted front grille and a pair of slimmer and more advanced headlights.

Inside, Skoda has ramped up the amount of sustainable material used in the construction of the Scala’s cabin.

New materials include a headlining derived from plant fibres and flooring and mats made using recycled fabrics.

The wheel-arch linings and windscreen water reservoir are also made with recycled plastic.

Powertrain options remain unchanged, starting with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that’s available with either 70kW or 85kW.

The former is combined with a five-speed manual while the latter gets the choice of either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The flagship engine is a 110kW 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol that combines with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This engine also features cylinder deactivation tech that shuts down two cylinders when cruising for better efficiency.

All versions are available in Europe with optional Sport Chassis Control adaptive dampers with two settings that see the Scala ride 15mm lower to the ground. A rough road suspension is also an option that raises the Skoda hatch by an additional 15mm.

The latest update also brings safety improvements, with the standard driver assist tech now including a pedestrian monitoring system, lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition. Nine airbags are also fitted.

In Europe, just three model grades are offered – Essence, Selection and the flagship Monte Carlo, the latter featuring black accents and faux leather seats.

All models now come with an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster, with the option of a larger 10.25-inch instrument panel.

Like before, entry Scala models come with an 8.25-inch infotainment system, with the option of a larger 9.2-inch touch-screen.

Up to five USB-C outlets are dotted around the cabin, with one now included in the rear-view mirror to power a dashcam.

New tech includes an optional hands-free gesture-activated electric tailgate and brighter Matrix LED headlights.

Other exterior changes include redesigned alloy wheels that range in size from 16- to 18-inch in diameter. There’s also now nine paint options to choose from.

In Australia, the new Skoda Scala is due to touch down in the first quarter of 2024.

You can expect it to continue to be offered in a single high-grade trim with the 85kW 1.0-litre turbo combined with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Full pricing and local market details will be announced closer to its debut.

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