The spicy Scala has been upgraded by ABT and is now sold by Skoda.
The Vision RS concept Skoda was introduced at the Paris Motor Show in October 2018. It was widely believed that the Rapid-replacing Scala would produce a hot hatch version. The showcar featured a powerful hybrid powertrain that combined a 1.5 TSI and an electric motor to produce 241 horsepower. It’s now February 2021, and there is no Scala RS. But there is a silver lining. The Scala Edition S is now available.
The Scala Edition S was developed by Skoda’s German Division in collaboration with the ABT tuners. It isn’t a full-blown RS derivative, even though it’s larger than the compact hatchback’s standard version. The engine is the same four-cylinder 1.5 TSI engine with a six-speed manual transmission. However, the Kempten-based aftermarket experts have boosted the power output to 190 horsepower and 290 Newton meters (214 pound-feet) of torque. This is an increase of 40 horsepower and 40 Nm (30 lab-ft).
The Scala Edition S comes in Monte Carlo trim. It has a power boost and a stiffer suspension. This brings the hatchback closer by 15 millimeters (0.6) inches). The custom 18-inch ABT wheels are used. There are subtle aero upgrades and the interior cabin features black fabric seats with stainless steel pedals. There are three color options: Steel Gray, Black Magic Pearl Effect and Velvet Red Premium Metallic.
Skoda Deutschland will limit production to 500 units and is currently accepting pre-orders at EUR33 790 per pop. This is a significant premium considering that the Scala Monte Carlo donor car starts at EUR24,000. You might be better spending a few thousand more to drive an Octavia RS (EUR38.940), as it is a better car in every way.