Škoda Scala Monte Carlo, reasonable and practical

Following its extensive facelift and revisions earlier this year, Škoda is establishing itself as a serious contender for family and business vehicles on UK roads

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Car Reviewed: Škoda Scala Monte Carlo 150PS

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This Spring, Škoda underwent a substantial interior and exterior redesign of its Scala hatchback and Kamiq SUV, as well as the addition of additional equipment and the simplification of the powertrain options in its three specification levels.

The diesel engine that had been in use for years was replaced, and a variety of turbo-petrol units are now available to buyers. These units include a 94 or 113bhp 3-cylinder 1.0-litre engine and a 148bhp 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine. The most potent engines have a six-speed manual gearbox, while an automatic gearbox is optional.

Our version is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, as opposed to a dual-clutch automatic, which costs approximately £1,300 more. Trim and features are available in three options: SE, SE L, and Monte Carlo.

Adding £1,860 to the list price, the demo car was equipped with the optional brilliant silver metallic paint, convenience pack, steel spare wheel and tow bar preparation. Although it may appear to be a substantial sum, it does elevate the specification to a practical and reasonable level.

While the 1.5-litre engine is well-suited for long-distance open-road cruising, cross-country journeys necessitate frequent gear changes to maintain pace with traffic in hilly regions, which also impacts engine composure and economy. The engine consistently achieves over 50mpg in these settings.

Although it is relatively swift, it is not particularly rapid to begin with, and the presence of a limited number of passengers does emphasise the gearing’s deficiencies and the necessity for frequent adjustments.

Nevertheless, the long travel clutch and the slick six-speed gearbox simplify urban and daily transportation.

The car exhibited a propensity to roll around tighter turns and to run wide on them despite remaining firmly anchored on the road. However, when the steering or throttle were reduced, it promptly returned to its intended path.

The brakes were exceptional, with a powerful and progressive sensation, and the traditional lever-type manual parking brake was robust.

Secondary controls were located on the wheel spokes on either side of the column and were distributed across the width of the fascia. They were silent when in use and were easily accessible, although they were not always in direct line of sight behind the wheel-rim and chunky spokes.

The instrumentation was very good, with a large, clear, and well-lit display that was selectable and well-lit at night. Additionally, the central infotainment display on the dashboard top was satisfactory. The heating and ventilation systems functioned efficiently, and the windows were powered on all sides.

The new Scala has a significant amount of oddments space available for all passengers to utilise, making it an excellent family vehicle. This is facilitated by the ample rear seat legroom and offset collapsable rear seat backs, which maximise the vehicle’s carrying capacity and options.

The wrap-around sports seats in the front offered a wide range of adjustment, while the low waistline provided excellent visibility. Additionally, the vehicle featured bright lighting, a camera and parking sensors, and a full-length glass sunroof with a powered shade.

Its cabin and boot access were exceptional, and its total capacity exceeded that of competitors in its category. Additionally, I was surprised, it featured a powered tailgate.

The Škoda Scala Monte Carlo provided a comfortable, yet slightly firm, ride over a wide range of surfaces. Its seats effectively cushioned the majority of shocks before they caused any discomfort for the passengers.

Noise levels were generally negligible. The four-cylinder engine is consistently quieter than its triple-pot stablemates, particularly when it is being forced through the gears with a burden. Wind or other mechanical sounds were exceedingly low, and road rumbles were occasionally audible but seldom felt.

It dynamically evoked the sensation of a much larger and more expensive vehicle; however, certain interior panel treatments in contemporary sustainable materials may not be to everyone’s liking. It also appeared dark inside with the extensive use of black materials.

The Škoda Scala’s external redesign of the front end and rear has significantly enhanced its style, transforming it from a mundane bridge between a driver’s desires and their financial capabilities. The revised powertrains, equipment, and features will further substantiate this family hatchback as a wise choice, albeit not a hybrid that qualifies for reduced road tax.

For: Roomy, versatile, comfortable, very economical, motorway cruiser

Against: Some engine and road noise, dark interior, average performance, handling and warranty.