Skoda Rapid – a value for money car

Pros : Premium looks, high quality interiors, powerful engine and quick responding torque delivery

Cons : Automatic transmission not available with diesel variants, comparatively low fuel economy

Unlike most other cars of its segment, Skoda Rapid is readily available for test drive soon after its launch. Just yesterday i had the opportunity of test driving this super creation at my nearby dealership in Gurgaon. Same as available with any other car of Skoda, the Skoda Rapid carries fascinating premium look outside. Despite being a C segment models, the road appearance of the car is compatible to the premium sedans like Skoda Laura and Volkswagen Jetta.

It was the top end diesel variant of the car named as - Skoda Rapid Diesel Elegance. Blessed with a powerful 1598cc, 4 Cylinder TDI engine, the car is a treat to drive. The throttle response is superb with a peak power of 105 Bhp @ 4400 rpm, which is combined with a quick responding pick-up of 250 Nm @ 1500 rpm. I wanted to experience the automatic version but unfortunately the auto transmission is available with only petrol versions.

Interior of the car has been designed to offer an spacious and comfortable experience to the passengers. It comes equipped with every feature a young car buyer of this segment would be asking for that comprises of power steering, power windows, remote central locking, rear defogger, manual air-conditioner, steering adjustment, single DIN music system, height adjustable driver's seat, designer wheel covers and. The features that are exclusively added in the top end variant of Rapid including features 2-DIN music system USB port and AUX-in, and alloy wheels.

In my opinion, the major competitors of the car will be Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Maruti SX4, Toyota Etios and Ford Fiesta. As i have already driven all these cars, performance wise, Skoda Rapid can give a run to all them for their money. And when this high performance joins with superb premium looks, an extreme fascination is guaranteed.

Priced at Rs 9.19 lakh, the top end diesel model of the Elegance 1.6 TDI CR model is much lesser priced as compared to the top end diesel variants of the likes of Ford Fiesta and Hyundai Verna. Thus, the car is complete value for your money.