Skoda Rapid: Practical Gap Filler

2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 09:36

The new generation of the Skoda Octavia grows and grows. The Czech VW subsidiary closes the gaping gap to the Fabia with the Rapid sedan.

By Jens Meiners

If there is one vehicle that symbolizes the rise of the Skoda brand after the takeover by the Volkswagen Group, it is the first-generation Octavia. The sedan was so popular that it continued to roll off the assembly line for three years after the slightly larger successor model was presented. In the next generation, which will be at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2013, the Octavia will grow again. The gap created in this way between Fabia and Octavia offers comfortable space for another model series - and the Czechs are now introducing them under the name Rapid. From around 14,000 euros, the new will be available from dealers from November.

Generous feeling of space in the Skoda Rapid

The dimensions of the five-door model are almost entirely the same as those of the first generation Octavia - thanks to the long wheelbase and the raised roofline, it now represents an ideal size for a compact family car. The airy passenger cell offers excellent space utilization. Even if the front seats are pushed far back, there is still plenty of knee room in the rear. There is also a luggage compartment that holds an impressive 550 liters. When it comes to the glazing, the designers have avoided a strong indentation - that creates a generous feeling of space.

The interior is characterized by unusually straight lines and simple, but precisely processed materials. The well thought-out details include stowage options on the front seat flanks, a reversible mat with rubber coating on one side in the trunk and a dedicated storage compartment for the warning vest, which is mandatory in many countries. The clear instrumentation is executed in cool white and thus sets a sophisticated accent. Overall, however, the following applies: Skoda is not premium - Volkswagen and Audi are responsible for that.

Skoda Rapid as a lightweight

This also applies to the technical platform. In contrast to the Audi A3 and the upcoming VW Golf VII, the Czechs use components from the tried and tested PQ platforms for the Rapid. It is astonishing that it was still possible to keep the weight at around 1100 kilograms.

The 1.2-liter turbo engine with 77 kW / 105 PS we drive therefore acts confidently in most situations and effortlessly penetrates speed ranges beyond 160 km / h. The engine in our test car was coupled to a precise six-speed manual transmission from the Group's modular system. We had to get used to the unusual pressure point of the clutch.

Skoda Rapid without gimmicks

The chassis of the Rapid is difficult to disrupt; At the limit, the five-door model goes into understeer that is easy to control even when ESP is switched off. Overall, the design offers a pleasant compromise between comfort and road holding.

Sporty excesses are actually alien to the Czech, but if the driver wants to take it a little harder, he won't be asked twice. The range of assistance systems is also limited. Anyone who values the latest gimmicks here should refer to the more expensive group models or the upcoming Octavia.

Timeless design for the Skoda Rapid

However, it will be considerably more expensive than the Rapid. With a cost price of around 14,000 euros, the Czech is formulating a declaration of war on the Koreans and French. Although there is neither radio nor air conditioning on board for this price, these extras can be ordered without having to choose a much more expensive equipment version - as is the case with various competing models. The entry-level model is powered by a 55 kW / 75 PS petrol engine with multi-point injection; above that are the TSI models with turbocharger and direct injection as well as 63 kW / 85 PS, 77 kW / 105 PS or 90 kW / 122 PS. In addition, Skoda offers the 1.6 TDI with 66 kW / 90 PS or 77 kW / 105 PS. And since we're talking about the cost:The most economical model is the TDI Green Tec with 77 kW / 105 PS and an average consumption of only 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers.

And the design language? It is so straightforward and supercooled that it is a real risk in this vehicle class. Others rely on effect and chrome glittering baroque. The car clearly rejects this fashion. And that's why it will probably still look fresh in a few years - just like the first Octavia. (SP-X)