Skoda Rapid Quick Reviews:

Are you a sucker for Skoda automobiles? Then there’s some good news. The all-new Skoda quick is unveiled. The all-new Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI, which complies with BS6, is now available in India with both manual and automatic transmission options. The turbocharged petrol engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, with the automatic getting a 6-speed torque converter. Rider, Rider Plus, Ambition, Onyx, Style, and Monte Carlo are the six manual versions available. On the other hand, the automatic version does away with the standard Rider trim and is available in the remaining five options. The 2017 Skoda Rapid manual starts at Rs. 7.79 lakh and goes up to Rs. 11.99 lakh for the top-of-the-line model. Meanwhile, the Rapid automatic starts at Rs. 9.69 lakh and goes up to Rs. 13.29 lakh (ex-showroom price).

The 2020 Skoda Rapid is comparable to the previous generation in terms of form and proportions, but it has been designed to look sportier. The 16-inch alloy wheels, gloss black finish, side skirts and black spoiler, as well as a blacked-out grille, are among the new blackened elements on the Monte Carlo edition. LED headlamps, LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), and front and rear fog lights are among the features. The butterfly grille, massive mesh-pattern air intakes on the bumper, and horizontal fog lamps are among the other design aspects that haven’t changed. The vibrant colour options, such as red, blue, and black, make the top-end trims look even more athletic, while white, brown, and silver paint options are also available.

The cabin receives slight upgrades as well, with a dual-tone brown and black finish on the Onyx and Monte Carlo variants and a black and grey interior on the Onyx and Monte Carlo variants. The mid-level trims get a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartLink technology, while the top-level trims get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink, just like previous Skoda models.

First, The Skoda Rapid compact vehicle, which was introduced in 2011, failed to make much of an impression in terms of sales. But it did make a sedan from the brand more accessible, so it might be thought of as Octavia’s younger sibling. However, we at car and bike have a special relationship with the vehicle because it had its global debut on our show in 2011, and we had quite a party on the air. Nothing much has changed in nine years, with the exception of a facelift in 2016. Aside from that, the Rapid’s appearance has remained unchanged.

Skoda Rapid’s feature:

The new Skoda Rapid’s main feature is its 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol TSI engine, which produces 108 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 175 Nm between 1750 and 4000 rpm. Compared to the original 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine, the new Rapid TSI produces 5% more power. The torque output has risen by a whopping 14%. With a stated fuel efficiency of 18.79 kmpl, the new Rapid manual is likewise 23% more fuel-efficient than the previous model. The automatic version comes close, with a fuel economy of 16.24 km/l.

Skoda New Rapid Price:

The Rapid undercuts all of its competitors, with the base variant starting at Rs. 7.49 lakh (ex-showroom India), making it more affordable than ever before. It is, in reality, the most cost-effective compact sedan on the market. To give you an idea, the Rapid’s base model is Rs. 1.82 lakh less expensive than the Hyundai Verna, Rs. 82,000 less expensive than the Ciaz, Rs. 2.42 lakh less expensive than the Honda City, and Rs. 1.37 lakh less expensive than the Toyota Yaris. So, in terms of price, the Rapid has a lot going for it.

Skoda New Rapid price list (Variants):

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Rider MT: 999 cc, Petrol, Manual, 19 Km/l.

₹ 7.79 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 Rider Plus MT: 999 cc, Petrol, Manual, 19 Km/l.

₹ 8.19 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 Rider Plus AT: 999 cc, Petrol, Automatic, 16.2 Km/l.

₹ 9.69 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Ambition MT: 999 cc, Petrol, Manual, 19 Km/l.

₹ 9.99 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Onyx MT: 999 cc, Petrol, Manual, 19 Km/l.

₹ 10.19 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Ambition AT: 999 cc, Petrol, Automatic, 16.2 Km/l.

₹ 11.49 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Style MT: 999 cc, Petrol, Manual, 19 Km/l.

₹ 11.69 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Onyx AT: 999 cc, Petrol, Automatic, 16.2 Km/l.

₹ 11.69 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Monte Carlo MT: 999 cc, Petrol, Manual, 19 Km/l.

₹ 11.99 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Style AT: 999 cc, Petrol, Automatic, 16.2 Km/l.

₹ 12.99 L

• Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI Monte Carlo AT: 999 cc, Petrol, Automatic, 16.2 Km/l.

₹ 13.29 L

Skoda Rapid Mileage:

The Skoda New Rapid gets 16.24 to 18.97 kilometres per litre. The mileage on the Manual Petrol version is 18.97 kmpl. The Automatic Petrol model gets 16.24 kilometres per litre.

Skoda Rapid Colors:

Lapiz Blue, Toffee Brown, Flash Red, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, Candy White are the colors available for Skoda Rapid.

Design:

We first saw the upgraded model at the Auto Expo 2020, and we warned you then that there weren’t many cosmetic changes. We did, however, get to see the Monte Carlo variant of the Rapid, which sits right on top of the car’s five models. The Monte Carlo variation in Flash Red appears distinctly different and sticks out in terms of appearance. The iconic black butterfly grille, gloss black mirrors, quartz-cut projector headlights, and LED daytime running lights are all attention-getting features. The black design components may also be observed on the sides and back parts. New dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels with glossy black bolt covers are also included in the Monte Carlo variant. The firm also provides 15-inch wheels on the Rider and Ambition models, with 16-inch wheels on the others. The glossy black décor on the B pillars with the Monte Carlo flag insignia adds a touch of glam to the whole thing. The black roof foil and tailgate spoiler add to the overall appearance, although the black does make it appear meaner. So, in some ways, the design has held up well over time and still looks good on the road. Given the larger, more powerful engine under the hood, this appearance adds to the overall attractiveness. However, the engine is the most significant improvement of them all.

Drive Experience:

We say this because the Rapid will no longer be offered a gasoline engine. That is a more powerful one. It’s the most powerful Rapid ever in a petrol form, and it’s all down to a 999cc displacement. There’s 109 horsepower on tap, and while that figure may be lower than some of its competitors, there’s never a moment when you feel underpowered behind the wheel. The 1-litre TSI outperforms the 1.6-litre engine it replaces with 5 horsepower. There is also 20 Nm greater torque than previously. With 175 Nm of torque, you’d expect the Rapid to keep up with the more powerful cars on the road, and it does it without difficulty. The engine is tuned, and as you gain speed, it becomes even more so. It’s the same engine that we’ve seen on the new Polo and even the Vento, and we’ll be seeing more of it on Skoda and Volkswagen vehicles in the future.

The motor has a particular oomph about it, and you appreciate every second of it. However, there is a lag during the first acceleration. Anything below 2400 rpm makes you feel like it’s not going to take off. But once the needle reaches 2500 rpm, everything falls into place. When the turbo comes on, it’s a completely different animal, and it’s a blast to drive.

Although there is some engine noise at higher rpms, the fact that it can easily redline and even reach 6700 rpm without running out of breath astounds you. The six-speed manual transmission comes standard, and the gear shifts are silky smooth in traffic or on the interstate. The gear ratios are also properly spread out, which is why the Rapid has a powerful mid-range, which means the turbo stays engaged for longer, and you won’t feel the need for additional power with this one. It’s also cost-effective, providing more than 18 kmpl. It’s enough to make your socks fall off, put a smile on your face, and never trade that for anything else. The fact that you won’t want to get out of the driver’s seat speaks much about the car’s ride and handling abilities. The steering wheel’s flat bottom (which isn’t standard) makes it simpler to grasp and, of course, adds to its athletic charm. But it’s the car’s point-and-shoot attitude that we admire. It’s a true joy to behold. It goes where you want to go and responds quickly. At low speeds, it feels heavier, but once you hit three digits, it feels quite solid.

The clutch is light, and the gearbox is enjoyable to use due to the short throws. So, when you take it to the hills, it’s a whole blast. This is most likely where you recognise it as a car designed for enthusiasts, as well as where you learn about its history. The Rapid is also unfazed by uneven roads, and it takes everything in stride. However, because the suspension is set to a firmer setting, there is some kickback in the cabin, and you can feel the big potholes on the road.

Cabin:

While the Rapid’s ride and handling have earned it a lot of praise, the interior and feature packages pale in comparison to those of its competitors. In comparison to the 2011 model, the cabin hasn’t changed at all. Although cars like the City, Verna, and even the Ciaz offer better seats, the seats are supportive. The changes are minor, and the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the first thing you notice when you get in the car. Now, this is a system that is Android-enabled and designed exclusively for the Indian market. This system is not available on any other Rapid anywhere in the world. It’s very simple to use and intuitive. However, you’ll need to utilise a third-party app to connect your phone to the system, which means you’ll have to download an app to your phone. The answer to the issue of whether the system supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, or even MirrorLink is a resounding no. And, in my perspective, this is a step backwards. Given that the majority of its competitors have already entered the connected car realm, the Rapid barely scrapes by in this area, and it doesn’t truly go toe-to-toe with them.

However, what the Rapid (Riderbase ) ‘s form has to offer is remarkable and outstanding. It comes with a 2-DIN audio system with a CD player, climate control, front and rear electrically controlled windows, electrically operated ORVMs, and much more. Dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes are standard safety features. In comparison to its competitors, the Rapid is well-equipped, especially in the base model. However, as you go to the top, you begin to wish there was more to give. While auto headlights, rain-sensing wipers, tilt-telescopic steering, rear ac vents, auto-dimming inside mirror, and a rear-view camera are all standard, the Rapid lacks a number of them. A sunroof, LED lighting, ventilated seats, wireless charging, and plenty of USB connections are all included. It’s not that there aren’t any, but there is only one, and it’s in the glove compartment. However, there are 12V charging ports in the front and rear. However, this does little to compensate for the rear seat’s lack of legroom and knee room.

Customer Reviews:

• Engineering from Germany. Regardless of what others say regarding service or part costs. This is German engineering at its finest. Drive quality, engine feel, styling, and safety are all factors to consider. There’s no way to compare it to any other brand. Mileage is less important than life and safety. In this segment, there is no competitor to this car. Simply Brilliant.
• Excellent automobile with a powerful engine. Excellent DSG transmission with performance comparable to Audi and BMW. When you have a strong body, you can drive with confidence.

So what’s the wait? Go grab your Skoda Rapid today.