While on one side, Skoda’s Octavia is selling much faster than they expected, the brand has revolutionized C segment with the new 1.5 TDI diesel engine and the 7 speed automatic DSG transmission. Combination of high fuel efficiency, unmatched power and driving pleasure, Skoda Rapid is the only C-Segment sedan to offer DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) with a diesel engine. Symbolizing Skoda’s brand value, “Simply Clever”, the updated Rapid is ideal vehicle with ample space, an attractive design, modern proven technology and excellent safety equipment.
The new engine of Rapid is more capable than the old one, because of its ability to handle the torque slightly better than before. It offers good drivability and handles rough roads and speed breakers pretty smoothly Available with a 2-year kilometer warranty along with 3-years warranty for exterior paint, its interiors have been thoughtfully put together for the perfect balance between space, convenience and comfort. And all these goodies come with a tag of around Rs. 11 lakhs.
Technical Specifications
The latest automatic variant of Skoda Rapid dons 1.5-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine that is fitted with a 7-speed dual clutch gear box. Rapid has retained the 1.6-litre MPI petrol engine, capable of producing 103.5bhp of power with a peak torque output of 153Nm. Its great performing engine also offers the high fuel efficiency of 21.66kmpl for the automatic model and 21.14kmpl for the manual model, which is remarkable, as the automatic’s efficiency is greater than the manual’s.
Interiors & Exteriors
Skoda endows great interiors on the new Rapid including premium new door panels & handles, soft touch plastic trimmings on the central console, back lit door side switches and electrical ORVMS. It also features tilt adjustable steering wheel, adjustable driver seat, steering wheel mounted audio controls, rear parking sensors, rear A.C vents, rear center arm rest as standard. This sedan is available in four trim levels – Active, Ambition, Ambition Plus and Elegance.
Given the exteriors, the new Rapid looks similar to that of the new Vento with New sporty exterior design. However, it has its patent features including new headlights and prism cut pattern, along with rear number plate. Rapid’s bold character lines running all over the length of its body makes it look muscular yet elegant, while its flared muscular wheel arches add to its great look.
In addition to the new engine and transmission option, Skoda is offering a ‘Black Package’, available only on the top-end trim – Elegance. This package offers glossy black elements like grille, headlamps, fog lamps, a blackened roof, the logo lip, multi spoke alloys and ORVM’s. With these cosmetic updates, it manages to look quite ‘elegant’.
Skoda Rapid’s market rivals
To fight the stiff competition from the Volkswagen Vento, Hyundai Verna and Renault Scala, Skoda has given the Rapid a few cosmetic updates, making it a spacious, straightforward and good value C-segment competitor. Packed with power and distinctively elegant in look, Skoda Rapid is available in 16 versions with 2 transmission, 2 engine and 2 fuel options. Its primary feature is a five speed manual and 7-speed DSG automatic transmission gear box that makes it more competitive in its segment.
Compared to its competition, the Skoda Rapid looks Plain Jane, but has strong driving dynamics as well as potent drive trains.