Skoda Rapid

The Rapid is Skoda’s version of the Volkswagen Vento. By extension, that means that the Skoda Rapid is not the newest of mid-sized sedans around. However, the Rapid has got its fair share of updates over the years and is still an option worth considering. On offer are petrol-manual, petrol-auto, diesel-manual and diesel-automatic versions.

The Rapid is Skoda’s version of the Volkswagen Vento. By extension, that means that the Skoda Rapid is not the newest...

The Rapid is Skoda’s version of the Volkswagen Vento. By extension, that means that the Skoda Rapid is not the newest of mid-sized sedans around. However, the Rapid has got its fair share of updates over the years and is still an option worth considering. On offer are petrol-manual, petrol-auto, diesel-manual and diesel-automatic versions.

The shape may be familiar by now but the Rapid’s angular new face links it to Skoda’s latest global models, which is no bad thing. The Rapid is clean and clutter-free on the inside too, and hides its 2011 vintage rather well. A strong build is the highlight and while space is not class-leading, it’s good by any measure.
The Rapid’s 105hp, 1.6-litre petrol works fine but does not stand out in any particular area. Shifts on the manual gearbox are slick, while the auto is a bit too relaxed. It’s the free-revving 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel that’s the more exciting of the two engines. Again, the diesel’s manual gearbox is nice to use, while it’s the diesel-auto’s dual-clutch gearbox that brings the best out of the engine. Small potholes thump through the cabin and the Rapid tends to bob at high speeds but ride quality, on the whole, is good.

The shape may be familiar by now but the Rapid’s angular new face links it to Skoda’s latest global models, which is ...

The shape may be familiar by now but the Rapid’s angular new face links it to Skoda’s latest global models, which is no bad thing. The Rapid is clean and clutter-free on the inside too, and hides its 2011 vintage rather well. A strong build is the highlight and while space is not class-leading, it’s good by any measure.
The Rapid’s 105hp, 1.6-litre petrol works fine but does not stand out in any particular area. Shifts on the manual gearbox are slick, while the auto is a bit too relaxed. It’s the free-revving 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel that’s the more exciting of the two engines. Again, the diesel’s manual gearbox is nice to use, while it’s the diesel-auto’s dual-clutch gearbox that brings the best out of the engine. Small potholes thump through the cabin and the Rapid tends to bob at high speeds but ride quality, on the whole, is good.

The punchy Skoda Rapid diesels are good to drive and, money no object, it’s the Rapid diesel-auto that would be our pick. Of the trims, the Style comes across as fairly priced for what you get. Do note, the Rapid misses out on features like a sunroof and LED headlights that many rivals offer.

The punchy Skoda Rapid diesels are good to drive and, money no object, it’s the Rapid diesel-auto that would be our p...

The punchy Skoda Rapid diesels are good to drive and, money no object, it’s the Rapid diesel-auto that would be our pick. Of the trims, the Style comes across as fairly priced for what you get. Do note, the Rapid misses out on features like a sunroof and LED headlights that many rivals offer.