Late last year, we reported that Skoda was readying special iterations of its sedans sold in India. The carmaker then went ahead and launched the Octavia black edition (based on the pre-facelifted car) and is now gearing up to launch the Rapid Monte Carlo in the coming months.
In 2015, Skoda launched internationally the Rapid Monte Carlo based on the international Rapid. The India-edition Monte Carlo will naturally be based on the Indian car but will be done up on the same lines as the international model. It will thus come with a red exterior shade and an all-black interior. Additionally, it will also get an all-black grille and wing mirrors, along with 16-inch alloy wheels and a tailgate spoiler, both in black shade.
On the inside, the India-spec Rapid Monte Carlo will get unique aluminium scuff plates, faux-carbon fibre trim on the dashboard, a flat-bottom multifunction steering wheel, mobile holder, unique floor mats and upholstery with red stitching on the gear knob and aluminium sport pedals. The Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo for India will be priced around Rs 30,000 more than the standard top-spec trim.
Mechanically, the Rapid is expected to remain the same and continue with 110hp, 1.5-litre unit that made its debut on the Ameo. It also gets the 1.6-litre petrol motor. Both engines are paired with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard with the option of an automatic gearbox as well. The petrol Rapid gets an old-school six-speed torque converter automatic and the diesel comes with the high-tech seven-speed DSG unit.
The Skoda Rapid in India rivals the likes of the Honda City, the Volkswagen Vento, Hyundai Verna and the Maruti Ciaz.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Dhruv Dhaka
Saptarshi Mondal
