Skoda India has reintroduced the top-spec Monte Carlo variant on the Rapid midsize sedan, with prices starting at Rs 11.16 lakh and going up to Rs 14.26 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India). The Czech brand had launched the Rapid Monte Carlo in India back in August 2017, but had rebadged the model in November 2017 as Edition X due to a trademark dispute with a clothing brand of the same name.
The new range-topping variant is available in an exclusive red exterior finish and sports a blacked-out grille, wing mirrors, roof, B-pillar faux diffuser and spoiler, along with LED daytime running lamps, chrome touches above the projector headlamps and new dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels.
Meant to be plusher than the standard variants and pay homage to Skoda’s motorsport heritage, the cabin of the Rapid Monte Carlo gets a multi-function flat-bottom steering and gear knob wrapped in black leather, leatherette upholstery, steel floor pedals and scuff plates along with Mote Carlo inscription. The all-black centre console and dashboard feature chrome elements to add to the cabin’s premium appeal.
Equipment levels on the new top-spec Monte Carlo edition have also increased over the standard variants. The 6.5-inch infotainment system, mounted in the centre console, comes with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other kit on offer includes an automatic AC, rear AC vents, automatic wipers, cruise control, reach and rake adjustable steering, adjustable headrests on four seats, folding armrests at the front and rear and a cooled glove box. Skoda has equipped all versions of the Rapid Monte Carlo with two airbags, ABS and five three-point seat belts, though the automatic variants also get a hill-hold function and the petrol-auto option has electronic stability control too.
Engine and transmission options are the same as the standard variants – there’s the 105hp, 1.6-litre petrol engine with 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic options and the 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel motor that comes mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
The Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo rivals the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz (Rs 8.19-11.02 lakh), Honda City (Rs 9.70-14.05 lakh), Hyundai Verna (Rs 8.08-14.04 lakh) and the VW Vento (Rs 8.63-14.33 lakh). Priced from Rs 11.16 to 14.26 lakh, the range-topping Rapid Monte Carlo costs around Rs 25,000 more than the Rapid Style variant.
*All prices, except that of Skoda, are ex-showroom, Delhi.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
