Škoda has taken the wraps off its Scala hatchback, which provides it with its first-ever direct rival to the VW Golf and Ford Focus.

Škoda Scala

Based on the Škoda Vision RS concept at the Paris Motor Show and positioned between the Fabia and Octavia, it’s the first Škoda that uses Volkswagen Group’s MQB A0 platform – which also underpins the VW Polo and Seat Ibiza – but brings similar dimensions to the Golf. It also offers claimed class-leading boot space with a figure of 467 litres rising to 1,410 – compared to 380 and 1,270 for the Golf.

Full engine details are yet to be confirmed but the line-up coveers three 1.0-litre or 1.5-litre TSI engines and a 1.6-litre TDI, with power from 95 to 150hp, and a 90hp 1.0 G-TEC that runs on CNG.

Equipment is said to bring a high level of active and passive safety, full-LED headlights and tail lights, as well as numerous Simply Clever features.

The Škoda Scala will launch in the first half of 2019.