Skoda Auto has officially launched the updated version of Rapid sedan in the market. This time around, it has introduced a new 1.5-litre TDI diesel engine that is mated with an advanced 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. While improving its technical specifications, the car maker has also refurbished its interiors with a new multifunctional steering wheel and a few other cosmetic updates. Most of the interior design remains to be the same like its predecessor, but there is slight improvement in its color scheme. In addition to this, it also gets a pair of adjustable knee level air con vents along with a sophisticated cruise control system, which further adds to the drive comfort. In terms of exteriors, this sedan gets a set of stylish 'Bold' 15-inch alloy wheels, which gives it a refined look. There are no changes made to its safety features and it retains all the aspects including engine immobilizer with floating code, dual front airbags, ABS and electronic stability program. It will now challenge the likes of Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Ford Fiesta and Nissan Sunny in the car bazaar.
Exteriors:
Its front profile has been retained with the signature radiator grille that has vertically positioned bars and a chrome surround. It is further embedded with a stylish company's insignia, which is complimented by expressive lines designed on bonnet. The front body colored bumper has a wide air dam along with a pair of fog lamps . Its side profile has expressive lines and neatly carved fenders. Its wheel arches are now fitted with a set of stylish 'Bold' alloy wheels, which are covered with tubeless radial tyres. Its window frame along with B pillars are garnished with black while the ORVM caps and door handles have body color. The rear profile too remains unchanged and yet it looks stylish, thanks to its C-shaped tail lamps. Its boot lid has a triangular design and is further decorated with a lot of chrome inserts. This sedan is now available in a total of five attractive exterior paint options including Deep Black Pearl, Candy White, Cappuccino Beige, Flash Red and Brilliant Silver.
Interiors:
This Skoda Rapid 1.5 TDI AT Elegance trim has an attractive interior cabin as it gets a refined Mocha and Ivory color scheme. Its dual toned dashboard is now integrated with a stylish three spoke steering wheel, which has multifunctional steering wheels and leather cover. It is also decorated with a lot of chrome inserts and company's, which accentuates the interiors. Furthermore, its dashboard is fitted with several advanced equipments including an automatic AC unit, Skoda audio player and lot of storage spaces. The seats are ergonomically designed featuring adjustable headrests and are covered with premium Ivory fabric seat upholstery. Its driver's seat has height adjustment facility, while the co-passenger can be adjusted from rear with a push of lever. Its instrument cluster has two round shaped meters and a multifunctional screen that displays vehicle's speed, gearshift indicator, tachometer, service interval reminder, fuel consumption and distance traveled. The main highlight of the interiors is its ample leg and shoulder space, as this sedan has a 2552mm of total width and 1699mm of overall width.
Engine and Performance:
This variant is powered by an all new 1.5-litre TDI diesel engine that has a displacement capacity of 1498cc. This mill comprises of 4-cylinders and 16-valves based on DOHC valve configuration. This in-line diesel engine is also integrated with a liquid cooling system and a turbocharger. It can belt out a maximum power of 103.56bhp at 4400rpm that results in a peak torque output of 250Nm between just 1500 to 2500rpm. This motor is now mated with an advanced 7-speed DSG automatic transmission gearbox, which allows the front wheels to drive torque output. As a result of replacing the engine, this sedan can now deliver a maximum mileage of 21.14 Kmpl, which is rather impressive. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph speed mark in the range of 10 to 11 seconds and it can go up to a maximum speed of approximately 175 Kmph.
Braking and Handling:
The car maker has paired its front axle with a McPherson Strut suspension including lower triangular links and torsion stabilizers. While the rear axle is fitted with compound-link crank axle system, which helps this sedan to be stable. As far as its braking is concerned, it is bestowed with a hydraulic dual diagonal circuit vacuum assisted braking system. Its rear wheels are paired with drum brakes, while the front wheels are coupled with discs, which are further loaded with piston floating calipers. On the other hand, this vehicle is also blessed with a rack and pinion based electromechanical power steering system, which also features speed-dependent control system.
Comfort Features:
This Skoda Rapid 1.5 TDI AT Elegance trim has advanced comfort features like a Climatronic automatic air conditioning system, height and length adjustable steering wheel, electrically adjustable outside mirrors and GSM telephone preparation with Bluetooth connectivity. Furthermore, it also has power windows with one touch operation including bounce back system, front passenger's seat adjustment from rear and a cruise control system. This sedan also has some of the utility aspects like 12v power sockets, front sun visors, remote control release of boot lid and passenger's side vanity mirror. The manufacturer has also incorporated a proficient Skoda 2-DIN audio player along with USB port, SD card Slot and AUX-In socket. It also features a large format display, four speakers and steering mounted audio control switches.
Safety Features:
This top end variant is incorporated with numerous sophisticated safety features, which provides enhanced protection to the occupants. It is equipped with a list of features including parktronic sensors at rear, dual front airbags, anti-glare inside rear view mirror and a rear windscreen defogger with timer. This sedan has illumination features like projector headlamps, front fog lights and high level LED third brake light. Apart from these, the car maker has incorporated anti-lock braking system with dual rate brake assist, electronic stability control, 3-point ELR seatbelts, emergency triangle in luggage compartment and fuel supply cut-off in a crash.
Pros:
1. Improved performance and fuel efficiency with new TDI engine.
2. Interior space and comfort is at par with other luxury sedans.
Cons:
1. Lack of touchscreen infotainment system is a disadvantage.
2. There is still scope to improve interior design.
