Skoda has announced a raft of minor changes to various models across the company’s line-up in time for 2021. Small changes will be made to a number of cars, including the Karoq, Kodiaq and Kamiq SUVs, as well as the smaller Scala and Fabia hatchback models. The Skoda Scala in particular has undergone some further refinement with a few minor tweaks and additions.
For the 2021 year model, the engines fitted in the successful Scala hatch range will be converted to comply with Euro 6d emissions standards. Subtle detail changes and new colour schemes will provide the finishing touches to the cars.
Some new features and optional extras will also be made available. New options include a set of silver-coloured 17-inch Propus alloy wheels, and also the KESSY keyless vehicle entry system, where the transmitter signal now deactivates if the key has not been moved for five minutes, instead of the previous 15 minutes. Then there is the Simply Clever multifunction storage pocket underneath the boot cover for stowing items, such as a coat or jacket.
And with the optional extras for the Monte Carlo version, the Skoda lettering on the tailgate can be ordered in silver as well as the usual black. A Red & Grey package is also new to the Scala. The frame of the Skoda grille and the wing mirrors come in sporty black too. In addition to the 17-inch Propus Aero alloy wheels (or with 18-inch Vega Aero or Blade alloys on request), the package includes striking red/grey wrapped doors and specific door sills, and can also be combined with selected paint finishes.
All Scala models are now equipped with an activated carbon filter that can also remove allergens from the air. The G-TEC variants with CNG drive and offering 66 kW (90 PS) are classified according to Euro 6d emissions standards. The 1.5-litre TSI produces 110 kW (150 PS), whilst the 1.0-litre TSI is available with outputs of 81 kW (110 PS) and 70 kW (95 PS).
For those unfamiliar with the Skoda Scala G-TEC variant, it was first introduced in 2019 at the CNG Mobility Days in Berlin. This Scala is powered by natural gas, adding a particularly efficient and eco-friendly engine to its roster. The 1.0-litre G-TEC has a peak output of 66 kW (90 PS), with three CNG tanks enabling a range of around 410 kilometres in natural-gas mode, according to preliminary data. The total range stretches out to 630 kilometer when combined with the nine-litre petrol tank.
“Natural gas will play a key role in Skoda’s engine portfolio over the coming years in order to lower CO2 emissions. Our natural-gas engines are becoming more and more popular with our customers because of their low emissions. And anyone driving a Skoda Scala G-TEC will in future also benefit from comparatively low fuel costs in many countries”, explains Christian Strube, Skoda Board Member for Technical Development.
These changes for the new 2021 Skoda Scala come off the back of some major introductions and additions to recent models. For example the Scala along with the Kamiq in Europe were the first Skoda’s to get the newest generation of infotainment systems (which was only recently announced that it would be coming to other Skoda models for their 2021 range). These include a built-in eSIM, giving the Scala a permanent online connection, and a digital voice assistant called Laura that provides hands-free support for navigation, infotainment and telephony. Also newly introduced were the 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit, a fully digital instrument panel on the dashboard, and an optional upgraded Amundsen navigation system on a 9.2-inch display with touch and gesture control, Wireless Smartlink supporting wireless Apple CarPlay connection, and optional Phone Box that amplifies the mobile phone’s signal as well as provides wireless Qi-induction charging.
