2018 Skoda Rapid – Indian Blue Book Overview

Skoda Rapid – Design That Moves

The Skoda Rapid was first introduced back in the year 2011 and has been a high seller for the brand although it has not quite been the start of its market segment.

Skoda has already facelifted the Rapid and the car has its own loyal fan following although it has struggled to compete with market leaders like the Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and Hyundai Verna in terms of sales figures in the Indian market.

The Rapid has been somewhat underrated but it definitely looks great and the new design is more in sync with the Skoda family design which is now witnessed in case of the Superb, Octavia and Kodiak. There is the new grille with a chrome accent piece while the headlamps are angular and look more aggressive. The bumper is edgier and there is a big honeycomb air intake.

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There are new fog lamps on either side of this bumper and the rear also gets a redesigned bumper with a chrome strip for the boot lid. The alloy wheels have been revamped and there is a boot-lip spoiler as well. The tail lamps have also undergone some re-profiling of their own. LED daytime running lights are also available for the top-end variant and slots in neatly within the dual-barrel headlamp.

Skoda Rapid – Masterpiece In The Truest Sense

The 1.6-litre petrol engine makes 103bhp and 153nm. This engine performs well, particularly when mated to the 6-speed automatic transmission unit. The new 1.5-litre diesel engine is also used in the Volkswagen Ameo and this engine is paired to a 7-speed DSG gearbox.

Although the engine is noisy, it manages to offer good fuel economy and decent performance. Ride and handling are okay although the car feels stiffer. Galvanized steel has lowered the Rapid’s weight, thereby bolstering both handling and weight.

The interiors are quite similar to those in the Volkswagen Vento but there are quite a few upgrades. There are automatic headlamps, rain sensing wipers and cruise control. The 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system is available for the top-end variant and this also gets MirrorLink. Bluetooth, AUX and USB connectivity options are also available. Dual front airbags and ABS are also available as standard for all variants.

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The rear feels spacious and comfortable although the suspension system is not the best in this segment. The prices are competitive enough and the Rapid does feel like a value proposition considering the bouquet of features, stylish design and good engines on offer.

However, the absence of any sunroof option could rankle with buyers in this segment since the Honda City and Verna already offers the same for specific variants. The rear AC vent is included along with handy storage spaces. The air conditioning unit also looks sleek and stylish enough.