Skoda launches the Rapid with a 1.5 litre diesel motor

Skoda has launched the Rapid powered by a new 1.5 litre diesel engine (the same unit present on the Vento and Polo). This 1498cc unit replaces the older 1.6L diesel motor; however it produces identical power and torque figures - 104 bhp @ 4400 RPM and 250 Nm @ 1500-2500 RPM. Skoda now offers a choice between a 7-speed DSG and a 5-speed manual gearbox; the DSG option shall be available in two trim variants - Ambition+ and Elegance. The ARAI figure for this engine is 21.14 kmpl on the manual and surprisingly 21.66 kmpl with the DSG unit.

The petrol engine in the Rapid remains unchanged - 1.6L MPI unit produces 104 bhp and 153 Nm of torque; mated to a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission (Ambition+ and Elegance trim only). ARAI rating for this motor is at 15 kmpl and 14.3 kmpl for the manual and automatic unit respectively.

Interiors of the Rapid remain unchanged; however, cruise control and rear parking sensors have been added to the list of equipment.

Prices (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the Rapid are as follows:
1.6L + 5MT: Rs.7.22 - Rs.8.72 lakhs
1.6L + 6AT: Rs.9.14 - Rs.9.68 lakhs
1.5L + 5MT: Rs.8.38 - Rs.9.74 lakhs
1.5L+ 7DSG: Rs.10.34 - Rs.10.84 lakhs

Additionally, Skoda offers a Black Package at approximately Rs.13,000 above the Elegance trim which includes a black front grill, smoked headlamps, black alloy wheels and black fog lamp bezels. This package is available only with Candy White and Brilliant Silver; other colours on offer are Cappuccino Beige, Toffee Brown (expected in November), Flash Red and Deep Black Pearl.