Skoda is all set to reveal its VW Vento challenger, called the Rapid. Skoda has used the Rapid moniker several times in the past and it’s slated for a comeback when the saloon is launched during Diwali this year.
Built on the same platform as the Vento (code: VW251) the Skoda iteration (code SK: 251) will share most mechanical bits with the VW saloon which includes engines as well. Hence, the Rapid will come with the same 1.6 petrol and diesel motors both of which develop 105bhp.
However keeping the positioning of the two brands in mind, Skoda will price its Rapid slightly below the Vento and a couple of features could be deleted from the Rapid’s equipment list too. Sources inside Skoda also claim that the Czech company plans to shake up the market by launching an affordable version of the Rapid, priced in close proximity to Maruti’s SX4, which translates to a price (ex-showroom, Delhi) of approximately Rs 7 lakh for the petrol and Rs 7.80 lakh for the diesel.
The design language for the Rapid is thought to be based on the Vision D concept car shown in Geneva. A wider grille, simple but bold lines and beautifully crafted surfaces could mean this car looks better than the Vento. One Skoda trait missing on the car, however, will be the hatch, something that has been sacrificed in the interest of cost. Instead, the Rapid will get a traditional boot. The Rapid is also likely to see the introduction of Skoda’s updated chrome on black logo which looks much more modern and avantgarde.
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Uday Singh
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