The Rapid name is an old one in Skoda’s history, debuting in 1935 alongside the Superb. But unless you are old, or are paying particular attention to Skodas, you probably wouldn’t know that, as the last time it appeared on a Skoda was between 1984 and 1990 on a rear-engined coupe.
But now the name is back, this time on a small Golf-sized liftback that looks set to deliver rather a lot, for very little money…
What is it?
Pretty much summed it up in the intro, but the Rapid slots nicely into the Skoda line up between the Fabia and the Octavia, the latter of which is set to grow larger in its next incarnation (headed this way very shortly).
This pretty much makes the Rapid Skoda’s Golf. Except unlike other Golf-sized cars in the VW empire, the Rapid is based on the Roomster platform, albeit with the front axle lifted from the Polo.
Available only as a single model, the Rapid scores VW’s brilliant little 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder engine that pumps out 90kW of power and an impressive 200Nm of torque, hooked up to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Given that the Rapid is priced at $29,990, this is already looking like a lot of car for the money.
While it looks very much like a sedan, it is actually – like its bigger brother Octavia – a liftback, a body shape that gives the little Skoda an impressive amount of boot space – 530-litres to be precise – and rear seat legroom. A new Skoda corporate face is debuted on the Rapid, replacing the old-fashioned grille with a far more modern and attractive chrome grin and a honeycomb lower intake that was previously reserved for vRS models.
The Rapid comes standard on 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear fog lights, body-coloured mirrors and door handles, daytime running lights and electrically adjustable (and heated) door mirrors.
On the inside the Rapid gets a multifunction, four-spoke steering wheel, Bluetooth telephone connection with voice control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, cruise control, a six-speaker audio system and cloth trim.
The one thing that the first shipment of Rapids to hit our shores also miss out on is a USB input or any kind of iPod integration, something that is increasingly being taken for granted these days. This will be remedied with the next shipment, however.
Skoda NZ have made a $2,000 “Enhancement Package” available that adds 17-inch alloy wheels, climate air conditioning, rear parking sensors and an improved stereo to the basic package, while a “Sports Package” will be available at a later date that will add a different design of 17-inch alloys, sports seats, black mirrors, a spoiler and a decal set. While a price is still to be finalised for this, the aim is to get it in at $2,000 as well.
What’s it like?
For a small car from the VW Group, it is a pleasant little package. For an entry model that scrapes in under $30, it is quite a remarkable little package.
Out on the road, the Rapid is an impressive little beast, with a remarkably comfortable ride and a decent turn of performance from the strong VW Group 1.4-litre turbo four. The 200Nm of torque is particularly useful out on the open road, with the little Skoda able to effortlessly ride the torque wave at (and above…) the open road speed limit.
Through the winding stuff, the Rapid displays a wonderful blend of nimble agility and composed comfort that is particularly impressive for such a small car. The engine is up for whatever fun the chassis decides to get into, with an eager, revvy nature mixing well with the fat band of torque.
The seven-speed DSG transmission is simply the icing on the cake, with the traditionally super fast, smooth operation we have come to expect from the VW Group’s dual-clutch transmissions.
What’s good about it?
The supple, compliant ride and nimble handling is particularly surprising and welcome. The 1.4-litre engine is an eager delight and getting a slick seven-speed DSG in such a cheap car is a massive bonus.
What’s not so good?
It is quite drab and plasticky inside (although this is set for an upgrade next year) and it is quite basic as well. Old-tech VW trip computer and stereo is a bit of a time-warp experience, although chucking the $2k option pack at it solves this without drastically upping the asking price.
First impressions?
While it may not be the most lavishly equipped car on the market, the mix of handsome, unique styling, clever packaging and interior space, a strong engine and an impressive blend of ride comfort and handling make the Rapid a remarkably good prospect for the money asked for it.
Even adding one (or both) of the options packages to the Rapid still sees it remaining incredibly competitive in the segment and even in absolute basic trim it still offers remarkable value for money with a strong, modern engine and a slick DSG at base Korean model prices.
Specifications
Models/prices
Skoda Rapid– $29,990
Powertrain
1.4-litre inline four-cylinder petrol producing 90kW/200Nm; seven-speed dual-clutch transmission; front-wheel drive
Fuel consumption: 5.8l/100km
CO2 emissions: 134g/km
Safety
ANCAP/EuroNCAP rating: n/a
Air bags: 6
Stability control: yes
Lap/diagonal belts: 5
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