The facelifted version of Skoda's most affordable offering is coming up with major aesthetic upgrades along with additional features
Skoda will introduce a heavily reworked version of the Rapid on November 3, 2016. The Skoda Rapid and the VW Vento share the same underpinnings – the Polo’s platform – and are also manufactured at the same facility. However, the Rapid features the previous-gen Fabia’s face, while the Vento initially came with the Polo’s, but after the facelift, it now resembles the Jetta’s more. Unlike the Vento, the Rapid has never got any major model update and this will be the biggest change the nameplate has ever received since its introduction in 2011. Let us see what we can expect from the updated Rapid.
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Design
The outgoing Rapid has started to show its age of late because the second-gen Fabia’s face that it had borrowed was debuted more than half-a-decade back. This said, if spy shots are to be believed, the updated Rapid has again borrowed the Fabia’s face, but of the latest third-gen, 2015 model.
All this will make it look sharp and in-line with the current sedans from the Czech automaker such as the Octavia and the Superb. It will also get the Skoda’s latest grille design, which will be flanked by sleek and smoked projector headlamps. The Rapid will now feature daytime running LEDs as well.
The sides will remain identical to the previous model, save for the new set of alloys. The rear profile will see subtle changes and the tail lamps are likely to get new graphics. Skoda is playing a smart game by introducing the current Fabia’s face and it will definitely remain the highlight of the updated Rapid, shaving years off from its age.
Features
As is the case with the Vento, the Rapid has received a lot of features over time such as the rain-sensing wipers, electronically-foldable ORVMs, auto dimming IRVM, cruise control and others. However, the sedan lacks in terms of a touch-based infotainment system. The Vento and the Polo received a five-inch touchscreen infotainment unit in January 2016, but the Rapid was left out. That said, Skoda is finally giving a touch-based infotainment system in the updated Rapid and is reportedly getting a bigger unit rather than borrowing it from the Polo clan. It is likely to feature MirrorLink along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (low probability). Rest of the features will be carried forward from the existing model, however, we believe that Skoda will now offer ABS (anti-lock braking system) as standard, which is currently omitted in the base trim. Check out the feature here.
Mechanicals
The drivetrain options are likely to remain same and the updated version will be available with a 1.6-litre MPI petrol and a 1.5-litre TDI diesel. In terms of transmission, a five-speed manual will be standard, while the diesel will also come with an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG). Speaking of the 1.5-litre diesel, it is highly likely that the updated Rapid will get the up-rated 1.5-litre oil burner – 110PS of max power (5PS more) and 250Nm of peak torque – which made its debut with the Volkswagen Ameo. Also, it is highly unlikely that the facelifted Skoda will get the 1.2-litre TSI turbocharged petrol (105PS/175Nm), which presently offered with the Vento.
Prices and warranty
As the updated model is coming with additional goodies and aesthetic upgrades, there will be a slight increment in the prices. However, the Rapid has always been economical than the Vento and is likely to remain the same. And like the previous mode, the updated sedan will compete with the likes of the Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Verna, VW Vento and others. Coming to the warranty aspect, Skoda recently introduce a ‘4 year server care’ for all of its models and it is obvious that it will be offered with the upcoming model as well. It includes warrant, roadside assistance and maintenance package for four years.
So what do you think about the upcoming Rapid? Will this update make it a more promising product than the Vento and the rest of its rivals? Do let us know in the comments section.
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