Rapid inherits looks from Vento?

Skoda India recently unveiled their new sedan, Skoda Rapid at a show aired on NDTV. Skoda Rapid is currently being manufactured at Volkswagen’s Chakan plant in Pune, where Volkswagen Vento is also under production adorning the similar style and appearance. Moreover, both the sedans share quite a lot of similarities from the rear end, except of course for the badging. The Skoda Rapid price is expected to be in the range of around Rs 7 lakhs for the base variant. The new car is expected to be introduced in the month of November after Diwali.

The upcoming car, Rapid, though sports the same looks of Volkswagen Vento, but has many advantages over the older sedan. An automatic gearbox is being considered to be introduced into the Skoda Rapid sedan in the diesel variant. Volkswagen Vento is devoid of the automatic gearbox in the diesel variant. As it is, the diesel car demand is in rise and with the automatic gearbox mated with the diesel engine is likely to work wonders for Skoda Rapid sales. Apart from the technicalities, Skoda Rapid is said to be offered at a price lower than the Volkswagen Vento, with its price starting from over seven lakhs.

Hence, there is a distinct possibility of a consumer opting for a similar car offered at a lower price tag. However, the only point going against Skoda India is its after sales service in the country, which is not exactly very flattering. While there are many similarities between Skoda Rapid and Volkswagen Vento with respect to the interiors, like the gauges, audio buttons and dashboard, the four-spoke steering wheel is shared with the likes of Skoda Fabia and Skoda Laura. Volkswagen is clearly reviewing strategies for Indian car market. Apparently, among the other plans Volkswagen also intends to introduce its Spanish subsidiary, SEAT in India with the launch of a three-door hatchback, SEAT Mii.

Read More on : Skoda Rapid detailed review