Watch 2019 Skoda Scala’s World Debut Live From Tel Aviv Right Here

Skoda is ending 2018 on a high note with the reveal of the all-new Scala, a C-segment hatchback that replaces the Rapid Spaceback.

The Czech automaker has chosen Tel Aviv as a venue for the world premiere of its new model to highlight the brand’s connection with Israel. Skoda is the best-selling European car manufacturer in the country, with 20,000 deliveries in the first eleven months of 2018 and a market share of 8 percent.

Another reason for choosing Tel Aviv is the fact the company set up the Skoda Auto DigiLab joint venture for digitization and mobility services in the Mediterranean city which is a hotspot for the IT sector. What does that have to do with the Skoda Scala? Well, the compact hatchback is said to mark “a huge leap in terms of connectivity with its new mobile online infotainment services.”

Largest touchscreen displays in the segment, Virtual Cockpit

Skoda has already revealed the first interior photos of the new Scala, which packs infotainment systems with the largest displays in the segment (up to 9.2 inches) as well as the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument panel. The updated design language brought by the Vision RS study is obvious in the Scala, which also adopts new colors and materials. Skoda says the new model marks the beginning of a new brand identity, which is “as emotive as it is functional.”

The exterior is influenced by the Vision RS concept as well, but we haven’t got the chance to see it without camouflage yet. Expect similar proportions to the study but a toned down appearance in order to leave room for a future RS model.

Gasoline, diesel and CNG engines ranging from 90 PS to 150 PS

The engine lineup is no longer a secret, though. It includes five options — all turbocharged and direct-injected with stop/start system, particulate filter, and energy-recuperating brakes. There are three gasoline units: an entry-level 1.0-liter TSI three-cylinder producing 95 PS (94 hp), a mid-range 1.0-liter TSI with 115 PS (113 hp) and a top-of-the-line 1.5-liter TSI four-cylinder that makes 150 PS (148 hp).

The lineup also includes a 1.6-liter TDI four-cylinder turbodiesel rated at 115 PS (113 hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. Finally, customers can go for a 90PS (89hp) 1.0-liter G-Tec unit that runs on natural gas (CNG). Transmission options include five- and six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch units.

Similar interior space to the Octavia despite smaller exterior dimensions

Almost as big as the VW Golf, the Scala promises a generous amount of interior space. It’s 4,362 mm (171.7 in) long, 1,793 mm wide (70.6 in), making it a little shorter and narrower than the Golf. However, it rides on a longer wheelbase of 2,649 mm (104.3 in) and is a little taller at 1,471 mm (56 in).

As a result, it will offer similar interior dimensions to the larger Octavia, including one of the biggest luggage compartments in the segment. With the rear seats up, the boot has a volume of 467 liters (16.5 cu ft) and it can extend to 1,410 liters (50 cu ft) when the rear bench is folded down.

Watch the video unveiling in the live feed below from 6:30 p.m. CET (12:30 p.m. EST).