Used SKODA SCALA for sale

What types of used Skoda Scala cars are there?

The Skoda Scala was introduced in 2019 as a smaller sibling to the Octavia, which is technically a hatchback but takes the bigger footprint of a saloon.

Because it’s built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB A0 platform, it has more in common with the smaller Fabia as well as the SEAT Ibiza and Volkswagen Polo, but it’s designed to offer as much space as a SEAT Leon or Volkswagen Golf.

Its mechanical setup means it only gets the Group’s smaller engines, including 1.0- and 1.5-litre petrols and 1.6-litre diesels – they’re all fairly punchy, but where they excel is fuel efficiency.

With 467 litres of boot space, you actually get more room for loading bags and suitcases than you would in something like a Golf, which has 380 litres.

Popular Skoda Scala trims

There aren’t many options available, which makes choosing a Scala a pretty simple affair. Don’t expect bargain basement standard, though, because all trim levels are well-equipped.

> Skoda Scala SE - the cheapest option gets LED headlights, an 8.25-inch infotainment display, rear parking sensors and push-button start

> Skoda Scala SE L - this is the sweet spot because you get a bigger 9.2-inch display, automatic lights and wipers and a bit more style

> Skoda Scala Monte Carlo - a sporty-looking variant with keyless entry, ambient interior lighting and a reversing camera

Skoda Scala history

Skoda launched the Scala in 2019 as a replacement for the Rapid Spaceback, which had been on sale since 2013.

> Skoda Scala (2019) - Scala, Latin for ‘stairs’, is meant to show a progressive step up within the hatchback segment, and with enough space to rival bigger cars, it certainly delivers

> Facelifted Skoda Scala (2024) - an all-round update to include more efficient engines, a tweaked design, more safety kit and revised trim levels

What features does the Skoda Scala have?

If you’re after the best bang for your buck, seek out post-facelift models. Even entry-level cars get full LED headlights and tail lights, cruise control, rear parking sensors and traffic sign recognition.

Inside, there’s dual-zone climate control, and eight-inch digital driver’s display and an 8.25-inch infotainment system.

Upgraded models add a bigger 9.2-inch infotainment display and a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display.

The list of optional extras is long, so look out for cars with all-round parking sensors, a reversing camera, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control and matrix LED headlights that adapt automatically to prevent blinding oncoming traffic.

In late 2024, Skoda added the ‘Edition’ suffix to all of its trim levels to signify a major upgrade. All of these models get the bigger screen options, while top-spec Monte Carlo adds many of the optional extras for free.

Is the Skoda Scala reliable?

There’s no denying that the Skoda Scala should be extremely reliable – the Czech brand has a solid reputation, and being part of the broader VW Group certainly helps.

How much does the Skoda Scala cost to run?

Our pick would be the more powerful 116hp 1.0-litre petrol engine – this and the 95hp variant should get around 50mpg with mixed driving.

The 150hp 1.5-litre petrol probably isn’t worth the extra cash and reduced fuel economy for many, simply because the 1.0-litre unit is so excellent. There’s also a 1.6-litre diesel for long-distance drivers.

Insurance groups start at 10, and you’d need to be looking at a seriously kitted-out Scala to be above group 20, so this big annual outlay shouldn’t cost an awful lot compared with other hatchbacks.

Who is the Skoda Scala suitable for?

A used Skoda Scala for sale is a great pick for anyone who’s used to driving smaller cars but who needs that extra space.

Its compact dimensions make it easy to drive around town, but the impressive boot is virtually unrivalled, making it more similar to a mini estate.

You could consider other hatchbacks, like the Ford Focus, Kia Ceed and Hyundai i30, but none come near to offering the combination of value for money and practicality that the Scala does.