Czech car-maker Skoda launched its mid-sized sedan Rapid in India priced between Rs 6.75 lakh and Rs 9.19 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) on 16th Nov'11. The car to be available in both petrol and diesel variants will be powered by 1.6 litre engine. It is based on group firm VW's Vento platform. While the petrol variant of the Rapid will be available between Rs 6.75 lakh and Rs 8.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the diesel model is priced at Rs 7.95 lakh to Rs 9.19 lakh (ex- showroom Delhi).
The Rapid offers adjustable dual rear air conditioning vents which allow backseat passengers to adjust the flow of air effortlessly. The intelligent Climatronic air conditioning regulates the inside temperature automatically, ensuring a pleasurable drive. The front and rear centre armrest helps passengers to maintain posture on long drives as well as in stop-go traffic. The reading centre lamps at the front and spot lamps at the rear allow you to sit back and enjoy your favorite read on the drive home. The 2-DIN SKODA audio player comes with a multi-function console, CD player, auxiliary audio input for your portable media player, SD/MMC data card reader and AM/FM radio options along with a host of other useful functions.
The SKODA Rapid comes fitted with an Engine Immobilizer with a Floating Code System. This intelligent system generates a unique code that is stored in the key every time the ignition is turned off. The next time the car is started, it checks for the same code, and freezes the engine if the correct code is not found, thereby safe-guarding the car from theft. The audio player also comes with a similar code-based security system.

Technical specifications | 1.6 MPI/77 kW | 1.6 MPI/77 kW (A) | 1.6 TDI CR/77 kW |
Engine | |||
Engine type | Petrol engine, in-line, liquid cooling system, 16V DOHC, transverse in front | Petrol engine, in-line, liquid cooling system, 16V DOHC, transverse in front | Turbocharged diesel engine, in-line, liquid cooling system, high-pressure direct injection system, 16V DOHC, transverse in front |
Cylinders | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Displacement [cm3] | 1598 | 1598 | 1598 |
Max. power/revs [kW(bhp) at rpm] | 77(105)/5250 | 77(105)/5250 | 77(105)/4400 |
Max. torque/revs [Nm at rpm] | 153/3800 | 153/3800 | 250/1500 - 2500 |
Transmission | |||
Wheel drive | Front wheel drive | ||
Transmission | Manual 5-speed fully synchronized | Automatic 6-speed, with Tiptronic manual gear changing | Manual 5-speed fully synchronized |
Chassis | |||
Front axle | McPherson suspension with lower triangular links and torsion stabiliser | ||
Rear axle | Compound link crank-axle | ||
Braking system | Hydraulic dual-diagonal circuit braking system vacuum assisted | ||
Brake – front | Disc brakes with inner cooling, with single/piston floating caliper | ||
Brake – rear | Drum brakes | ||
Steering system | Direct rack and pinion steering with electro mechanic power steering | ||
Wheels | 5.0J x 14 (Active, Ambition), 6.0J x 15 (Elegance) | ||
Tyres | 175/70 R14 (Active, Ambition), 185/60 R15 (Elegance) | ||
Outside dimensions | |||
Length [mm] | 4386 | ||
Width [mm] | 1699 | ||
Height [mm] | 1466 | ||
Wheel base [mm] | 2552 | ||
Ground clearance [mm] | 168 | ||
Inside Dimensions | |||
Storage capacity [l] | 460 | ||
Weights | |||
Kerb weight [kg] | 1145 | 1180 | 1205 |
Gross weight [kg] | 1674 | 1720 | 1757 |
Liquids | |||
Tank capacity [l] | 55 | ||
Performance | |||
Turning circle diameter [m] | 10.6 |