Skoda’s newest offering, the Rapid, has interestingly, been around on our roads for quite a
while. What’s more, my uncle owns one already! Now before any confusion sets
in, let me clear this up, it’s the Volkswagen Vento that I’m talking about. And the new Rapid, is just that – a Vento
with a Skoda badge stuck onto it. But before you raise an eyebrow at this one, take
note: the Rapid costs a tad less than
the VW and the idea of getting a brand new Vento
for less money isn’t that bad of a deal, is it?
Despite being styled around the platform of a VW Vento, the Rapid is a true Skoda in the making, and this becomes amply clear with the ‘family’ look given to this car. The headlights, fog lamps and grille come from the Fabia hatch; the only redesigned bits here are the new hood and the mildly altered chin. At the back, the design changes have been restricted to a redesigned bumper and detailing on the tail lamps.
On the inside, the interior is an amalgam of Skoda and VW design
bits, all rolled onto a single dash. The air vents, climate control and other
buttons come from VW, while the steering wheel and audio system, with its big font and graphics,
is clearly Skoda.
Under the hood
The Rapid comes with a choice of two Engine
options – the 1.6 MPI Petrol (with the optional 6-speed Auto ‘box) and the 1.6
TDI Diesel. At 105bhp, both units churn out same amount of power, however, the
Torque difference is massive; with the TDI putting out 250nm @1500-2500rpm and
the Petrol making 150nm at around 3800rpm.
There are three trim levels to choose from; base-spec Active, Ambition and top-spec Elegance – and the choice, as usual, rely
on how deep your pockets are. In all, the Rapid seems like a good deal and
could well be a fast-paced contender in the current crop of premium sedans here
in India.
Price list of all the variants (Ex-showroom Delhi)
Petrol
Active- Rs. 6.75lakh
Ambition- Rs 7.09lakh
Elegance- Rs 7.99lakh
Ambition Automatic- Rs 8.09lakh
Elegance Automatic- Rs 8.99lakh
Diesel
Active- Rs 7.95lakh
Ambition- Rs 8.29lakh
Elegance- Rs 9.19lakh