The Skoda Rapid just got its first major overhaul since its launch in India. Based on the Volkswagen Vento, the Rapid has sold well in the past. But has been fast losing out to newer rivals. The new facelift should help the Skoda Rapid regain some lost ground. In this post, we will compare the new Skoda Rapid with the old model that was on sale in India. Read our Skoda Rapid old vs new comparison to find out what’s new.
Also See – Skoda Rapid Facelift Details | Skoda Kodiaq SUV | Upcoming Sedan Cars
Skoda Rapid Old vs New Model- Exterior Comparison
Designers have made major modifications to the nose of the car. The facelift borrows heavily from the European Rapid and the current generation Fabia hatchback. The outgoing car’s nose was identical to the previous gen Fabia’s. The upcoming facelift features a more angular look. Headlamps get projector units and LED daytime running lamps. The grille and the hood are in line with Skoda’s current design language as seen on the Octavia, Yeti and Superb. There is also a new alloy wheel design on offer.
At the back, the changes are less noticeable. Much of the tail remains unchanged. However, there is a slightly reprofiled bumper and the tail lamp design. Skoda has added chrome bits all around the car. There is also a subtle boot lip spoiler that lends it a sporty touch.
Also See- Skoda Rapid vs VW Vento | Toyota Fortuner Old vs New | New 2016 Rapid vs Ciaz
Skoda Rapid Old vs New Model- Interior Comparison
The interiors of the new Rapid do not feature any significant updates. The dashboard design, steering wheel, etc. all have been carried over from the outgoing Rapid. There are new additions in terms of features including a touchscreen AVN. the shade of the upholstery is now slightly darker. The interiors of the Rapid, like the tail, are identical to the Volkswagen Vento. The steering wheel, however, is a conventional circular shape. Unlike the Vento’s flat bottomed unit. In the new Rapid, the top of the dashboard is darker and not brown like the old model’s.
Also See – New Skoda Rapid vs Honda City
Skoda Rapid Old vs New Model- Specifications
| New Skoda Rapid Petrol Specifications | |
| Engine | 1.6-litre Petrol |
| Max. Power | 104 bhp |
| Peak Torque | 153 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual/6-speed AT |
| Kerb Weight | 1111-1187 kgs |
| Fuel Mileage | 15.41 KMPL (MT)
14.84 KMPL (AT) |
Skoda has carried over the outgoing model’s engine lineup. The new Rapid gets the same 1.6 L petrol engine with both automatic and manual transmission options. Although there were reports suggesting the automatic petrol variants of the Rapid facelift will receive the Vento’s 1.2 L turbo petrol and 7-speed DSG combo, that has not been the case. As for the Skoda Rapid diesel variants, they receive the updated version of the 1.5 L TDI Diesel. That means power increases to 108 bhp. Torque figures remain the same at 250 Nm.
| New Skoda Rapid Diesel Specifications | |
| Engine | 1.5-litre Diesel |
| Max. Power | 108 bhp |
| Peak Torque | 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual/7-speed Automatic |
| Kerb Weight | 1182-1228 KGs |
| Fuel Mileage | 21.13 KMPL (MT)
21.72 KMPL (AT) |
Skoda Rapid Old vs New Model- Mileage Comparison
| New Model (ARAI Certified) | Old Model (ARAI Certified) | |
| Skoda Rapid Petrol Mileage | 14.84 KMPL (AT)
15.41 KMPL (MT) |
14.3 KMPL (AT)
15 KMPL (MT) |
| Skoda Rapid Diesel Mileage | 21.72 KMPL (AT)
21.13 KMPL (MT) |
21.66 KMPL (AT)
21.14 KMPL (MT) |
Since the engine and transmission options remain the same, the mileage figures witness a very slight increase.
Also See – Upcoming Cars in India 2016-17
Skoda Rapid Old vs New Model- Dimensions
| New Skoda Rapid | Old Skoda Rapid | |
| Length | 4413 mm | 4386 mm |
| Width | 1699 mm | 1699 mm |
| Height | 1466 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2552 mm | 2552 mm |
Since the Rapid gets a new nose with a new bumper, there is a slight change in the overall length. Aside from that, other dimensions remain the same. The Skoda Rapid gets a 460 L boot and 55 L fuel tank.
Skoda Rapid Old vs New Model Comparison Verdict
Skoda launched the new Rapid facelift in India on November 3. Its introduction should help Skoda regain lost market share. Also, Skoda India has charted out a path for the future and the launch of the new Rapid is a vital part of that.
- Design – The new model looks more modern. It is in line with Skoda’s latest design language.
- Features – There are a handful of new additions to the features list including a new touchscreen AVN.
- Specifications – The Skoda Rapid facelift continues with the current set of 1.5 L Diesel and 1.6 L Petrol engines. However, the diesel is the updated 1.5 L unit
- Price – A small hike in prices was inevitable. However, the new Skoda Rapid price is still very competitive.
New Skoda Rapid Price List
| New Rapid (Ex-showroom Maharashtra) | Active | Ambition | Style |
| 1.6 MPI MT | 8,34,906 | 9,26,728 | 10,44,163 |
| 1.6 MPI AT | 10,38,841 | 11,46,187 | |
| 1.5 TDI MT | 9,57,335 | 10,49,157 | 11,66,590 |
| 1.5 TDI AT | 11,71,471 | 12,78,590 |
Stay tuned to Car Blog India for more posts like the new Skoda Rapid Old vs New Comparison we have here. Also, what do you say about our Skoda Rapid Old vs New Comparison? Do share your views by commenting below. Do you think the launch of the new Skoda Rapid will help boost sales?
