Skoda already offers a range of modern petrol and
diesel engines, but it doesn’t stop there, as it also dabbles in CNG
(compressed natural gas) as well, and has just unveiled such a version of the
new Scala hatchback. The Scala G-Tec is the brand’s second CNG-powered model after the
Octavia and willlaunch in the fourth quarter of the year, in three trim levels
called Active, Ambition and Style.
Powering the Scala G-Tec is a 1.0-liter
turbocharged, three-cylinder engine that produces 90 PS and 160
Nm of torque and meets the Euro 6d-Temp emissions standard. Power
is channeled to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.
The automaker claims that,
with all three CNG tanks filled, it has a range of around 410 km.
Add the 9 liters that fit in the petrol tank and the Scala G-tec
will travel for roughly 630 km before having to stop for fuel.
Running on CNG instead of petrol has dropped the CO2 emissions by 25 percent.
The CNG tanks have been integrated in the underbody,
and as a result, the new Czech compact hatchback has a luggage capacity of 339
liters, with all seats in place, 128 liters less than
the petrol- and diesel-powered Scalas. Still, according to the company, this is
“a best-in-class value for natural-gas vehicles in this segment”.
Like all versions of the Scala, the G-Tec a pretty
comprehensive list of standard kit, including Lane Assist, Front Assist with
City Emergency Braking, LED headlights and taillights, and others.
