SKODA India will be launching the Rapid facelift sedan in the Indian market very soon. As per Autocar India the launch is scheduled to happen on the 3rd of November.
The Skoda Rapid has been on sale in the Indian market since 2011 and has received minor updates over the years. In 2015 the Rapid received the updated 1.5 diesel engine, a DSG gear box and black package.
The 2016 refresh model will be the first major facelift the car will receive over the years.
The styling is borrowed heavily from the SKODA Fabia hatch available in the international markets. New bonnet with dual sharp edged beadings culminating in a geometric shaping of the grille, head lights which integrate seamlessly with the grille, grille design now in line with the new design philosophy, new front bumper and tails lamps when lit, illuminates with C-Channel impression.
Overall the car looks fresh and will be equipped with an updated diesel engine which now produces over 110 Ps. Transmission options include a 5 or 6 speed MT and 7 speed DSG. The 1.6 petrol motor will also be on offer with a 5 speed MT and 6 Speed AT.
In terms of features, the Rapid facelift sedan will get minor tweaks to the dashboard and a new touch screen interface in the centre. The Rapid will be offered in 3 trims and will get ABS, EBD, BA and dual air-bags as standard from base variant.
The Rapid sedan will compete with the Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Verna and Volkswagen Vento.
All the cars will be getting updates in 2017 while Hyundai will launch the new generation Verna in the Indian market.
The Rapid facelift sedan could pave the road for the Fabia hatch which was discontinued due to poor response. With the premium hatch segment showing lots of momentum, the Fabia could be a decent option now.
