A Reckoning

Every year we see slew of new products being launched in the automotive market, some are me too products while others post a stiff competition for contending brands. It is a rare occasion when a game changing product is launched and Skoda has done just that with their new Rapid. It packs a lot of features and gets a right mix performance and comfort, a reckoning long expected from Skoda. We got a chance to take the new Rapid for a spin and here is what we made of it.

- Joshua David Luther

At first sight the Rapid is a sure shot head turner. Its bedazzling facade has a very captivating appeal with adequate chrome and sharp design elements setting it apart from other contenders. The striking DRLs and projector head lamps add to the sedan’s contemporary looks giving it a sporty yet elegant nature. The side and rear profiles are reminiscent of the previous model. On the inside as well the Rapid does feel quite like the Vento, also offering a very rich and premium cabin.

At the heart of the Rapid is a 1.5 litre, 4 cylinder diesel mill which puts out 108bhp of power and 250Nm of torque. The Rapid is also available with a 1.6 litre petrol engine. Peak power on the diesel TDI variant which we drove comes in at 4000rpm while peak torque is achieve as low as 1500rpm going up to 2500rpm. With 250Nm of torque available low in the rev band, the Rapid is capable of lunging forward effortlessly and sustaining the surge catering to a very punchy and thrilling drive. The engine revs freely upto 5000rpm after which not much is on offer. The manual version of the Rapid is available with a 5-speed gearbox. The sedan is quick through the first three gears but the fourth and fifth gears have much taller ratios which can really be stretched on open patches of highway.