Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
We are with Skoda Rapid Spaceback.
The Rapid that the Skoda positioned between the Fabia and the Octavia
looks remarkable with its sportive appearance and convenient price compared to its rivals in this compact class.
Let’s see if it is really true?
Let’s analyze it together…
The front that reflects the brand identity of the Skoda and exceedingly assimilated to its big brother the Octavia enables the Rapid to look elite.
The headlamps with lenses have a share in this too.
When viewed from the sides, with the long axle span and delayed decreasing roof,
it is not hard to have an idea about the living space in the interior.
The panoramic glass ceiling, which can be purchased optionally, and black rear window seems extremely coherent.
The triangle design units that are the signature characteristic of the Skoda confronts us on the boot lid of the Rapid Spaceback as well.
I am behind the steering wheel of the Rapid Spaceback.
In the cockpit of the Rapid, as in all the Skoda models manufactured under the roof of the VW Group, there is a lot of VW perception.
The design of the cockpit is well coordinated and to reach and use the operating buttons are easy too.
Although the design of the interior pleases the eye
it is hard to say it is high-toned due to the hard and cheap plastic materials used in the entire cockpit.
More than enough areas are offered in front of the gear lever for your small items.
Besides, the lidded armrest also possesses a reasonable wideness.
At the rear compact class standard living space is offered.
The knee and headroom due to long axle span and high roof is quite good.
I am 178 cm tall and as you can see was able to sit here comfortably.
384-liter boot capacity for a compact hatchback class is quite a good value.
Let us consider the engine and the driving features of the Rapid.
In the Rapid, three petrol and one diesel, totally four different engine alternatives that we are accustomed from the VW Group are offered.
Under the bonnet of the Rapid Spaceback I have tested, 1.6-liter diesel engine is functioning which develops 90 HP and 230 Nm of torque.
You can buy this engine in the Rapid Spaceback with 6-speed manual gearbox or with 7-speed double clutch DSG gearbox.
There is a DSG gearbox in this car.
The engine has a character to satisfy the expectations all the way.
It answers your wishes at lower and higher speeds timely; therefore you are able to have smooth driving with the Rapid Spaceback.
The gearbox as always deserves praise for its seamless changes.
However, as I have mentioned at the Skoda Superb test
this gearbox due to its structure generally prefers second gear at the start
and therefore it is a bit reluctant in the beginning.
On the subject of the fuel consumption, the Rapid Spaceback offers values that will not upset its owners.
I have been driving the Rapid Spaceback for a week and have covered 350 km.
At the moment the trip computer indicates 6.1-liter fuel consumption averages.
This value, in my opinion, is good but it is possible to lower this value by your driving style and by the route you choose.
Although the construction of the suspensions of the Rapid is a bit strained, I think it satisfy the comfort expectations.
At road handling it definitely gives confidence to its driver.
Even though the steering is not very sensitive, it is on the bright side of the average.
Of course the wind noise is audible in the interior when you reach high speeds
but on normal usage and on reasonable speeds there is definitely no insulation problem.
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback, apart from its appealing outlook, succeeds to be a good alternative to the compact hatchback
by its diesel engine that satisfy every expectation.
In my opinion, its price being more attractive than its rivals is also its most powerful strength
but still final decision is yours.
See you…