Skoda Rapid 2011-2014 1.6 MPI Ambition Plus Alloy

Skoda Auto, the Czech based auto-giant, has always been involved with the manufacturing of extravagant sedans. Skoda gained dominance and became a household name in India, when the highly prestigious Volkswagen Group announced that it is now a wholly owned subsidiary of this group. The production as well as the sales graph witnessed an amazing hike as more people were attracted towards it. Surprisingly, it has launched the facelift version of its sedan, Rapid without creating much noise. Skoda Rapid is an entry-level sedan comprising of all the modern features as well as the latest technology, which was first introduced in the Indian shores in 2011. Skoda Raid Ambition 1.6 MPI MT Plus is the base variant in this model line up. As told, its the base variant but that doesn't make it featureless or any less seductive from the other similar sedans. It comes loaded with a highly efficient yet dominating 1.6 MPI, in-line, liquid cooling system, 16V DOHC, transverse in front petrol engine which generates a good power output of 103.8 BHP at 5250 RPM and a maximum torque of 153Nm at 3800 RPM. It delivers an exceptional fuel economy of 15.0kmpl (ARAI Certified) in accordance with outstanding performance. This exquisite engine is mated with a manual 5-speed fully synchronized gearbox which is comfortable to operate. It comes fitted with 175/70 R14 size radial and sturdy tubeless tires. Boot space too is worth noticing, as its comparatively higher than some of the other vehicles in its class. Surely, it has the charisma, elegance and dynamics of Skoda which will lure customers and take its legacy further.

Exteriors:

Ambition 1.6 MPI MT Plus is scintillating and dashing in exterior appearance. Skoda has launched it in five color trims which are Candy White, Brilliant Silver, Cappuccino Beige, Flash Red, and Deep Black Pearl. Furthermore, Skoda has harnessed the combination of art and technology in the truest way by employing a chrome laced front grille which enhances the looks and appearance of this sedan. The 14'"inch alloy wheels add zing and elegance to the exterior profile. The body colored external rear view mirrors and door handles are like icing on the cake as they blend perfectly with the sedan's color . Wider dimensions also add up to its tally of exquisite features as it looks much bigger in profile.

Interiors:

Ambition 1.6 MPI MT Plus interiors are reasonably decent. They have been designed with the vision of providing a customer, the absolute mixture of space, comfort and convenience. Moreover, the dual tone Mocca/Ivory interior shade make an individual feel the actual plushness and luxury inside the cabin . Then there is front seat center arm-rest in order to provide extra comfort to arms of the driver and co-passenger. Climatronic Automatic Air Conditioner provides the much needed balance between the actual temperature outside and inside cabin temperature and adjusts it accordingly. Additionally, the 2 DIN music system with Bluetooth compatibility lights up the entertainment factor. Storage pockets behind the backrest of front seats take care of your tiny belongings.

Engine Performance:

Though facelift, but the vehicle mechanically is the same. Ambition 1.6 MPI MT Plus retains the same 1.6-litre petrol mill that used to serve the earlier variants. This 1.6 MPI, in-line, liquid cooling system, 16V DOHC, transverse in front petrol power train is highly effective and capable as it stands out in terms of performance as well as power. It belts out a maximum power output 103.8 BHP at 5250 RPM and a torque figure of 153Nm at 3800 RPM . It is the base variant, hence manual transmission gearbox is present in place of an automatic transmission. Thus it comes fitted with a 5-speed fully synchronized manual gearbox. This engine possesses a displacement of 1598cc, which makes it even more powerful. As claimed by the Skoda officials, it certainly provides an promising fuel economy of 15kmpl with supreme acceleration.

Braking and Handling:

Braking and handling section has received special attention from Skoda as a considerable amount of improvisation can be observed here. McPherson suspension with lower triangular links and torsion stabilizer is incorporated in the front axle while compound link crank-axle is fitted at the rear. Both these suspensions are quite good as they see off the puddles on the road quite easily. Braking also gets the latest technology of vacuum assist. Hydraulic dual-diagonal circuit braking system is implemented in the vehicle to ensure smooth and safe braking. Front brakes feature discs with inner cooling, with single/piston floating caliper while the rear provide drum brakes. A direct rack and pinion steering with electro mechanic power steering system is present for easy turning in crowded and narrow places, which further enhances driveability.

Safety features:

People are fond of Skoda cars not only because of their premium appearance and engine performance but also because of the most innovative and contemporary safety features that they incorporate in their vehicles. Skoda has left no stone unturned to make it a completely safe and secured vehicle by inserting an array of active as well as passive safety and security features. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) comes as a primary safety element in accordance with Brake Assist (BA). Driver front airbag, co-passenger front airbag , height-adjustable three-point seat belts at front, two three-point outer seatbelts and centre lap belt at rear, height adjustable head restraints at front and height adjustable head restraints at rear are equipped with the vehicle to safeguard the lives of occupants on board. Front fog lights, high level LED third brake light along with the basic Halogen headlights with manual leveling is there to enhance visibility.

Comfort Features:

Ambition 1.6 MPI MT Plus has comfort features on offer such as height adjustment for driver's seat, front center armrest, rear center armrest, height adjustable steering wheel, length adjustable steering wheel is there to get rid of fatigue and exhaustion caused during long journeys. For music freaks Skoda has also installed an audio player, 2-DIN along with a large format display and front rear speakers . Additionally, leather wrapped steering wheel, leather wrapped gear-shift selector and leather wrapped hand-brake lever too are there to make it more elegant as well as eye-catching.

Pros: Spacious, feature rich, attractive.

Cons: Pricy, poor after-sales service.