2019 Skoda Scala confirmed

Skoda has announced the Scala nameplate for its new Ford Focus-rivalling hatchback, ahead of a full reveal of the new small passenger model later this year.

The Czech brand is yet to confirm any details of the all-new model including a first full look at the car, but it is understood the newcomer will be one of a pair of new vehicles that will split the current Rapid Spaceback’s trajectory. The second will materialise as a yet-to-be-named compact crossover.

Both will roll on the company’s smallest MQB A0 platform although the Scala will use a version larger than any model before it, giving it overall dimensions larger than a Volkswagen Golf - though only fractionally.

The model will also introduce a shift in company calling cards with the traditional boot roundel swapped out in favour of full width Skoda lettering. A single shot of the new branding arrangement also reveals a frameless glass boot lid similar to the Rapid Spaceback’s.

Some reports suggest the Scala will replace the current Rapid model although its maker has not revealed any plans for the line. One possibility is that the Scala will carry the small hatchback mantle while the Rapid moniker continues on as the existing liftback version which is not sold in Australia. Alternatively, this could be the end of the Rapid name for now.

Either way, the enigmatic new Scala has not yet been confirmed for sale locally, with Skoda Australia corporate communications general manager Paul Pottinger telling WhichCar the model was still too far off to make a final decision.

“As to whether we’d take it or not … it is too early to say, but the whole Skoda model range portfolio is open to examination,” he said. “We’re interested in everything that’s coming out.”

An initial hint at what the Scala will look like can be found in the Vision RS concept that made its debut at the Paris motor show, and Pottinger said the model will continue a more mature style direction for Skoda.

“I think the days of quirky are banished and that’s reflected in a more assertive brand identity.”

Latin for stairs or step, the Scala name represents the new model’s level of technology and innovation, which is more typically found in a ‘higher class segment’ says its maker.

The Fabia will continue to look after the compact end of the hatchback segment for Skoda, while the Octavia offers customers something larger than the Scala in either sedan or wagon bodystyles. The Superb sits at the top of the pack as the brand’s luxury flagship.

As for the SUV line-up, a Kodiaq GT which was also confirmed this week will be offered in China only for now, but the crossover range will be bolstered by a new compact model riding on the same platform as the Scala in 2019, previewed by the company’s Vision X concept.