Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo re-badged as Edition X

Skoda has launched the Rapid Edition X in India, which is essentially a re-badged Rapid Monte Carlo. A top-spec trim for their mid-size sedan, the Monte Carlo edition was launched in August 2017 with prices starting at Rs 10.75 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

However, a trademark dispute in October with the Monte Carlo clothing company resulted in a court order asking Skoda to refrain from using the Monte Carlo badge due to copyright infringement.

Besides the change in name, the Edition X is likely to be specced in the same way as the Monte Carlo edition that was on sale including the black painted front grille, 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a black tailgate spoiler and a faux diffuser. Two exterior paint shades are on offer, red and white, both come with a black painted roof.

In the cabin, the Edition X is expected with all-black interiors, new flat-bottomed leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching, red and black leatherette seats, stainless-steel foot pedals, custom door sills and floor mats, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartLink and MirrorLink, combined with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Skoda is also expected to provide daytime running lights, rear parking sensors, dual rear AC vents, cruise control, a cooled glove box and rain-sensing wipers. On the safety front, it is expected with dual-front airbags, ABS, ESC (DSG only) and hill-hold control as standard.

The 105hp, 1.6-litre petrol motor, mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox, and the 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel motor, mated to a five-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG gearbox, will be shared with the standard models.

Expect prices for the Skoda Rapid Edition X to be similar to those of the Monte Carlo edition, which started at Rs 10.75 lakh and went up to Rs 13.57 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The Rapid faces off against the likes of the Honda City, Volkswagen Vento, Hyundai Verna and the Maruti Ciaz in the Indian market.