Launch of the new Skoda Rapid is just around the corner, and it gets the much-talked about 1.5-litre diesel engine and some new features which add a fresh feel to the car. We’ve managed to get our hands on the feature details.

The Skoda Rapid has two engine options available. There is a 103bhp 1.6-litre petrol and the new 103bhp 1.5-litre diesel, a version of which also powers the Volkswagen Polo. Both engines have an option of a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. Automatic transmission on the petrol model is handled by a six-speed triptronic gearbox, while the diesel model gets the seven-speed DSG gearbox.

There are four trims on both the petrol and diesel models namely, Active, Ambition, Ambition Plus and Elegance. Automatic transmission is available for the Ambition Plus and Elegance trims of the petrol model, and Ambition, Ambition Plus and Elegance trims of the diesel model.

The base Active trim now gets newly designed covers for the 15-inch wheels. On the inside, there’s a new card holder. Standard features such as power windows, rake- and reach-adjustable steering wheel, front and rear reading lamps, and front and rear armrests remain unchanged from before.

Additionally, the Ambition trim gets features like remote central locking, airbag for driver, electric wing mirrors, front and rear fog lamps, rear defogger and height adjustability for driver’s seat, as before. This trim was previously discontinued but is now being offered again.

On the Ambition Plus trim, rear parking sensors and cruise control are new offerings. Other features like ABS, front passenger airbag, Audio system with AUX-in, USB and SD Card support, Bluetooth telephony and multi-function steering wheel are retained as before.

Over and above this, the top-end Elegance trim gets automatic climate control and projector headlamps. It also gets new 15-inch alloys and a Black Package cosmetic option. This optional package is purely a cosmetic add-on to give the Rapid a sportier look. New black alloys, black fog lamps, black grille and logo, black wing mirrors and black projector headlamps are part of the package. A glossy black roof and black side foils are available as accessories.

The new Skoda Rapid will be launched on September 25 and prices are likely to be more or less similar to the current car. The automatic diesel though is expected to cost a lakh more than the manual variant. Upon launch, the Rapid will take on the likes of the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Vento and the upcoming Maruti Ciaz.