Volkswagen Golf vs Skoda Scala

What's the difference?

VS
Volkswagen Golf
Volkswagen Golf

$38,690 - $72,490

2025 price

Skoda Scala
Skoda Scala

$32,490 - $43,890

2025 price

Summary

2025 Volkswagen Golf
2025 Skoda Scala
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Turbo 4, 2.0L

Turbo 3, 1.0L
Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency
8.3L/100km (combined)

5.4L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Tight for width in the rear
  • No spare
  • Economy could be better

  • Sporadic wireless phone mirroring
  • Not as fun as its rivals with outputs
  • Older looking exterior
2025 Volkswagen Golf Summary

It was the moment the Golf grew up. Just over 20 years ago Volkswagen unveiled a fire-breathing R32 variant to top the fourth-gen line-up of its already iconic hatch. With a growling atmo V6 engine, proper Haldex-based all-wheel drive, fat rubber and a pumped-up body, it instantly became the brand’s performance flagship.  

And another four Golf generations later an updated ‘8.5’ version of its current ancestor, the Golf R has arrived. An equally focused, heavy-hitting AWD with just over 30 per cent more torque and close to 40 per cent more power than that snarling, original R32.

CarsGuide was invited to its local launch, including a suitably challenging drive program on road and track. So, stay with us to see if this exceedingly hot hatch can earn a spot on your performance five-door short list.

View full pricing & specs
2025 Skoda Scala Summary

The new Skoda Scala brings a trim line-up of just two models and the features list for both have been reshuffled with a little pruning here and a few welcome additions there.

The Select 85TSI on test for this review replaces the former Ambition base variant and offers very competitive pricing considering its European roots.

You would be forgiven, though, if the Skoda Scala was not the first make and model that came to mind in your new hatchback hunt. But with its minor facelift and a boot capacity that rivals medium SUVs, maybe it should be on the list.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2025 Volkswagen Golf 2025 Skoda Scala

Change vehicle