The new generation Skoda Rapid facelift 2016 mid-size sedan is launching now in the Indian car market. The new Rapid 2016 comes with redesigned exteriors and interiors, along with an updated diesel motor and an exciting new feature list.
The Czech based automaker, Skoda Auto is launching the new Rapid sedan (Facelift). This new refreshed version of the Rapid compact sedan comes with sport cosmetics as well as mechanical upgrades. It contains the same platform as Volkswagen Vento, but it has few thoughtful additions as well.
The Rapid gets an entirely advance face, sporting the new family grill and a new pair of headlamps that gets not only a projector setup but also daytime running lamps. The air dam gets honeycombs detailing and is edged by a sharper set of fog lamps. Its silhouette and rear did not feature any major overhaul, saved for a new set of alloy wheels and updated detailing in the tail lamps. Minor updates include restyled rear bumper, new wing mirrors with indicators and a stubby antenna.
As far as the dimensions are concerned the Facelift is expected to measure 4386mm in length, 1699mm in width and 1466 mm in height. One the inside, sedan continues to carry the same dual tone black and beige color scheme that enriches the overall design of the cabin. The notable update that can be seen inside the cabin is the inclusion of a touch-based infotainment system with capacitive touch buttons and having a screen of the 9.2-inch display with WLAN hotspot function. It increases the number of driver aids on offer like blind spot detection, rear traffic alert, and predictive protection.The car also consists a heated steering and adjustable chair for the rear occupants. 9.2-inch display with WLAN hotspot function.
In Safety factors the Skoda Rapid has been already a safe car when it is compared to others in the segment. The company did not make any upgrades, in the safety department so the new Facelift version still gets dual front airbags, ABS and EBD, automatic day-night IRVM, ESP and rain sensing wipers which come with the previous model also.
The updated Rapid version is a soldier with its tried and tested motors- a 1.6-liter petrol and 1.5-liter diesel and having a 5-speed manual transmission. It contains conventional 6-speed torque converter paired with petrol motor while the diesel version gets the 7 speed dual-clutch DSG. Interestingly, the diesel motor has got an update and it produces 110 PS and 250 N-m.On the other hand, petrol comes with 105 PS and 153 N-m.The fuel efficiency figures for the diesel manual and automatic are 21.72 km/l and 21.13 km/l respectively.
The price of Skoda Rapid Facelift in India is starting with 8.27 lakhs (ex-showroom price). This car is available in three variants, namely the active, style and ambition. The price for petrol car variants comes in ranges from 8.27 lakhs to 11.36 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi) and for diesel variants of the Skoda Rapid, has a price of 9.48 lakh to 12.67 lakh.
This advance car will definitely give competition to Honda City, Hyundai Verena, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz. The new Rapid’s stunning looks are much fresher, while it also got an updated feature list. The updates will help Skoda India’s most affordable model afloat for the next few years, till the next generation model steps in.
– Sachin Bhandare.
