Skoda Scala Spied at the Nurburgring, Looks Out of Its Element

Skoda is well known for its notchback cars, but the Scala is a full-blown hatchback. From what we understand, this is the only body style that will be offered, and it doesn't bother us at all.

While the old Rapid was a more budget-minded car without any good features, this thing is said to be a direct rival for the VW Golf, at least the entry versions, as you won't get anything above around 150 horsepower.

Even though the Scala's design was said to be revealed by the Vision RS concept, we aren't dealing with a hot version at the Nurburgring. Instead, this is a regular old family car that happens to be testing at the most challenging track around. Show off!

The back end reminds us of the Kodiaq, but it's clear that a new era of Skoda design is upon us. It's by no means overstated, though you kind of expect that. Thanks to one of the official teaser photos, we also have a pretty good idea of what the interior looks like. It's going to have Skoda's first tablet infotainment, along with a digital dashboard.

Perhaps the most significant attribute of this compact is its spaciousness. The Octavia's ridiculous knee room will be matched, while the 467 liters of available trunk space is far beyond the segment norm.

As far as the engines are concerned, it's already been revealed that two versions of the 1.0 TSI will provide 85 and 115 HP, matched by a TDI model. Also, the 1.5 TSI will entice some with its 150 horsepower.