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@ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
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Ford Focus vs Skoda Scala – Which car suits you better?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Ford Focus or Skoda Scala?

Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Focus vs Skoda Scala: A Comprehensive Hatchback Comparison

The hatchback market is competitive, with offerings from various manufacturers striving to capture the attention of car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. In this article, we dive into a detailed comparison between two popular contenders: the Ford Focus and the Skoda Scala. Each model brings its unique strengths to the table, but how do they measure up against each other in terms of technical specifications and innovations?

Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Pricing: An Accessible Entry

Price is often the deciding factor for many buyers. The Ford Focus enters the market with a starting price of around €31,100, ranging up to €49,850 for higher trims. In contrast, the Skoda Scala offers a more budget-friendly lineup, starting at approximately €23,790 and reaching around €33,760. The significant price difference gives the Scala a distinct advantage for those seeking a stylish hatchback without breaking the bank.

Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Engine Options and Performance

The Ford Focus provides an assortment of engine types, including petrol MHEV, diesel, and standard petrol options, with horsepower ranging from 115 to a robust 280 HP. On the other hand, the Skoda Scala primarily offers petrol engines with power outputs varying from 95 to 150 HP.

For acceleration, the Focus showcases a range from 5.7 seconds (in the sporty variant) to 11.8 seconds, while the Scala delivers acceleration times between 8.2 seconds and 10.8 seconds. The Focus also impresses with a higher top speed, achieving up to 250 km/h compared to the Scala’s 221 km/h. However, both models feature front-wheel drive configurations, providing stability and control on the road.

Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Fuel Efficiency: Eco-Friendly Options

When it comes to fuel economy, the Skoda Scala slightly edges out the Ford Focus. The Scala's consumption ranges from 5.1 to 5.6 L/100 km, while the Focus’s range is between 4.9 L and 8 L/100 km, depending on the engine choice. Emissions are also a critical consideration, with the Focus showing a CO2 output up to 183 g/km, against the Scala’s greener alternatives, starting from 115 g/km. Consequently, eco-conscious buyers may lean toward the Scala.

Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Interior Comfort and Space

Both hatchbacks are designed with comfort in mind, offering spacious interiors with seating for up to five passengers. The Skoda Scala particularly excels in trunk capacity, boasting 467 liters, which is more than the Focus’s 392 liters. This additional space makes the Scala a practical choice for families and individuals with active lifestyles.

Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Technological Innovations

Modern cars are expected to come equipped with advanced technology and connectivity features. The Ford Focus is no exception, offering an intuitive infotainment system with features like Ford's SYNC 3 and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Skoda, too, includes a comprehensive infotainment system in the Scala, providing similar connectivity options and an array of driver assistance systems that enhance safety.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Hatchback

The Ford Focus and Skoda Scala are both exceptional hatchbacks tailored for different preferences and budgets. If performance, a sportier drive, and advanced technological features rank high on your priority list, then the Ford Focus is worth considering. However, for those who prioritize affordability, generous trunk space, and better fuel efficiency, the Skoda Scala proves to be an attractive choice. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your driving style, budget, and lifestyle needs.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Skoda Scala has a clearly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 20900 £, while the Ford Focus costs 27500 £. That’s a price difference of around 6609 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Ford Focus manages with 4.90 L and is therefore hardly perceptible more efficient than the Skoda Scala with 5 L. The difference is about 0.10 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Ford Focus has a convincingly edge – offering 280 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 130 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Focus is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.70 s, while the Skoda Scala takes 8.20 s. That’s about 2.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Ford Focus performs to a small extent better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Skoda Scala tops out at 221 km/h. The difference is around 29 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Ford Focus pulls decisively stronger with 420 Nm compared to 250 Nm. That’s about 170 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Skoda Scala is to a small extent lighter – 1199 kg compared to 1330 kg. The difference is around 131 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Skoda Scala offers a bit more room – 467 L compared to 392 L. That’s a difference of about 75 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Skoda Scala performs minimal better – up to 1410 L, which is about 56 L more than the Ford Focus.

When it comes to payload, Ford Focus clearly perceptible takes the win – 560 kg compared to 431 kg. That’s a difference of about 129 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Ford Focus shows itself to be dominates this comparison and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £27,500
Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Focus

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 115 - 280 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.9 - 8 L
details

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus remains a clever all‑rounder that balances sharp handling with everyday comfort, making it a strong choice whether your commute is city streets or country lanes. Its practical cabin and sensible running costs mean you’ll spend more time enjoying the drive and less time worrying about ownership, with a playful streak underfoot that keeps things interesting.

details
2021_FORD_FOCUS_ST-LINE_01-LOW @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
2021_FORD_FOCUS_ST-LINE_02-LOW @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
2021_FORD_FOCUS_ACTIVE_INTERIOR_04-LOW @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Skoda Scala

5 (2)
rate

The Skoda Scala is a tidy, no-nonsense hatch that wraps clever packaging and composed manners into a compact, grown-up package. It’s the sensible choice for buyers who want everyday practicality with a dash of style and personality—no drama, just reliable charm.

details
Der neue SKODA SCALA_114931 @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
Der neue SKODA SCALA_114932 @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
Der neue SKODA SCALA_114933 @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
Der neue SKODA SCALA Interieur_114994 @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

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Costs and Consumption
Price
27500 - 42700 £
Price
20900 - 30700 £
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 8 L
Consumption L/100km
5 - 5.6 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
117 - 183 g/km
co2
114 - 126 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
52 L
Fuel tank capacity
50 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1330 - 1529 kg
Curb weight
1199 - 1271 kg
Trunk capacity
392 L
Trunk capacity
467 L
Length
4382 - 4397 mm
Length
4362 mm
Width
1825 - 1844 mm
Width
1793 mm
Height
1438 - 1482 mm
Height
1514 mm
Max trunk capacity
1354 L
Max trunk capacity
1410 L
Payload
495 - 560 kg
Payload
403 - 431 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
115 - 280 HP
Power HP
95 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 11.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.2 - 10.8 s
Max Speed
186 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
192 - 221 km/h
Torque
170 - 420 Nm
Torque
175 - 250 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
85 - 206 kW
Power kW
70 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
999 - 2261 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1498 cm3

General
Model Year
2022 - 2024
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D
Brand
Ford
Brand
Skoda

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What drive types are available for the Ford Focus?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.