Skoda Scala review - MPG, CO2 and running costs

The Scala’s light weight helps to make it one of the most efficient cars in its class – our preferred 108bhp 1.0-litre TSI model returns a claimed maximum of 54mpg if you stick with the standard six-speed manual gearbox, or approximately 49mpg when equipped with the seven-speed DSG automatic.

We managed an impressive 54.7mpg when we drove this version of the Scala against a Volkswagen Golf and Kia Ceed, and that's without the use of any hybrid technology. It was notably more efficient than the Golf and Ceed in that test too, which returned 49mpg and 42.9mpg respectively.

The lower-powered 94bhp uses the same 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine to deliver up to 54.2mpg, while customers opting for the punchier 1.5-litre TSI model in top-spec Scalas will see economy fall slightly to around 49mpg. Although after covering over 11,000 miles in our Scala 1.5 TSI long-term test car, we averaged 41mpg.

If you're seeking maximum return on a tank of fuel, and don't mind looking on the used market, then the now discontinued 1.6-litre diesel is the one to go for, with maximum economy of 60.1mpg from the manual version and 56.5mpg from the DSG auto. 

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Emissions for the 1.0-litre models range from 126g/km to 148g/km of CO2, depending on the chosen trim level, while the 1.5-litre variant emits from 130g/km to 153g/km. The 1.6-litre TDI diesel is the best performer here, producing 122g/km to 141g/km of CO2.

Insurance groups

The Scala’s low running costs should extend to insurance too – the entry-level 94bhp model in SE trim sits in group 10, while the more powerful 108bhp version occupies group 13 and the top-spec 1.5-litre petrol in Monte Carlo trim is in group 19.

You can get personalised car insurance quotes fast with our comparison tool powered by Quotezone...

Depreciation

Our experts predict that the Skoda Scala will be competitive in the retained value stakes, holding on to between 48 and 53 per cent of its original its value come trade-in time after 36,000 miles and three years of ownership.

For comparison, the more expensive, premium-badged Volkswagen Golf is expected to retain between 45 and 55 of its value over the same period, depending on the exact specification.

To get an accurate valuation on a specific model check out our valuation tool...