• Engines are all TSI petrols
• Inexpensive to run
• Reasonable servicing costs

What are the running costs?

Diesels may be falling out of favour with buyers generally, but the 1.6-litre TDI still represents the most economical way of enjoying Scala motoring. You can’t buy a new one anymore, but high-mileage drivers should consider hunting the diesel down.

Opting for the 115hp 1.6-litre TDI engine with the six-speed manual transmission will yield economy in excess of 55mpg according to official figures, which should be achievable with a light right foot.

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But the petrol models should still prove economical. The 95hp 1.0-litre TSI (five-speed manual) is quoted at mid to low 50s mpg, while the 116hp version (with a six-speed ‘box) is barely any less efficient. That latter motor can also be paired with a seven-speed DSG auto, which knocks the figure a little, but you should still get over 48mpg. 

Even the most powerful 150hp 1.5-litre TSI is pretty frugal, with clever tech that means it’s nearly as efficient as the 1.0-litre if you drive it carefully. It costs quite a bit more to buy in the first place, but it’s worth a look if you want more poke.

Servicing

Skoda servicing costs are reasonable, but don’t forget that the parts are sourced from the Volkswagen Group, meaning that repairs on some items can be very pricey when out of warranty .

Reliability

• Skoda has a solid reliability record
• Many tried-and-tested parts
• Average warranty length

Skoda has a respectable reliability record, with many of the parts used in its cars already tried and tested on other Volkswagen Group models.

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The Scala and its VW Group MQB A0 platform (also used by the Skoda Fabia) has been around for a while now and we’ve not heard about any particular problems with it.