November 3, 2016: Czech automaker Skoda has launched the facelift of its most affordable sedan - the Rapid. The update - priced between Rs 8.34 lakh and Rs 12.79 lakh - lends the sedan a brand new face inspired from the new Fabia, and a few new features as well. Engine options include a 1.6-litre petrol engine and an updated 110PS 1.5-litre diesel motor. Both motors get optional automatic transmissions as well and the Rapid AT is available in the Ambition and Style variants with both engines. The facelifted Rapid takes on the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, the Hyundai Verna, the Volkswagen Vento and the Honda City.
When I started looking for mid sized sedan with following requirements in priority:
1. Built strong
2. cabin comfort great NVH level to considerably insulate the outside noise
3. a good powerful engine with more practical features to make driving more pleasure.
As usual with many others I also have a budget constraint. I targeted to look for a car of less than 12L. I test drove CITY, SCALA, VERNA, RAPID, CRETA, Ciaz, Baleno. Baleno was straightaway ruled out because of build quality, and driving read more 61
I bought my Skoda Rapid ambition 3 years ago, everything is adorable about the car, space and look is good. Perhaps little work on mileage would have been an added feather on the hat.The driving experience is also fine. I have been on self-drive long journey and must say the drive was fun and was as comfortable it could get. The leg room is good and also the boot space is large enough to accommodate stuff for long drives.Coming to the point why i took to write this feedback.I want the readers to read more 43
The Skoda has its own kind of reputation of delivering cars with the best combination of performance and styling. The exterior design, styling features, and the excellent colour options get a classic on the road image and assured appreciation of owning a luxury car. The interior comfort is at its best with spacious and well-cushioned seats. The only limitation of this car is its expensive maintenance. Though the frequency of service is less and breakdown is very rare, the cost of spares is high. read more 5
The Rapid has always been a steady performer for Skoda. While the big boys from the Czech automaker’s portfolio that is, the Octavia and the Superb always stole the limelight, it was the Rapid that steadily contributed volumes. With the demise of the Fabia brand in India, the sedan has been the most affordable Skoda on sale, for a couple of years.
With the competition picking up steam, Skoda thought it was wise to give the Rapid a nip and tuck, and prep it for yet another stint at the market. What’s changed? Let’s take a look:
Things We Like in Rapid
Updated 1.5-litre diesel engine is punchy, fun to drive and frugal. Rare for a car to pull all three off.
Build quality. Doors close with a reassuring thud, interiors are among the best built in the segment.
Well specced variants. Top-spec model gets projector headlamps, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, touchscreen audio system etc.
7-speed DSG automatic paired with the diesel engine is quick and refined. Rarely skips a beat.
Things We Don't Like in Rapid
Straightforward interior design is beginning to show its age.
Occupant space at the rear isn’t at par with rivals such as the Maruti Ciaz or the Honda City.
Stand Out Features
6.5-inch touchscreen features MirrorLink that lets you mirror your smartphone screen. Feels very intuitive to use.
Dual Airbags and ABS offered as standard throughout the range.
CarDekho Verdict
Is the Rapid in its best avatar yet? The answer to that is a resounding yes.
"Is the Rapid in its best avatar yet? The answer to that is a resounding yes."
The biggest shortcomings - a bland design and lack of features - have been fixed, which makes it all the more desirable.
Skoda India is all set to launch the first major updated version of the Rapid tomorrow. The facelifted midsize sedan will feature aesthetic upgrades along with additional features and an uprated diesel motor. The Rapid will continue to go up against the likes of the Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Verna, VW Vento (its sibling), and others. Read Full News
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