Skoda Auto India has just launched the facelifted Rapid in Mumbai, and prices start at Rs 8.34 lakh (ex-showroom Maharashtra). As everyone is eager to find out what’s new, we decided to show you a handful of pictures which will give you a clear indication of what to expect. Skoda’s latest Rapid will continue to lock horns with other C-segment rivals like the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and Volkswagen’s Vento in the Indian market.
The most attractive bit is undoubtedly the new fascia which depicts the car's signature butterfly grille, sharp precise and angular bonnet, and honeycomb grille on the bumper.
Along with the redesigned nose, Skoda has also incorporated ‘quartz cut’ projector headlamps which look sharper and aggressive thanks to the chrome eyelashes, DRLs and the blacked-out look.
A set of rectangular fog lamps have replaced the earlier angular units and the entire section is trimmed in matte black which creates a sporty feel.
Other than the chrome trim on the door handles and the new alloy design called ‘Matone’, the facelifted Rapid looks similar to the current car.
The rear is characterised by the C-shaped smoked tail lamps with striking internals, a chrome moulding around the boot lid, and the spoiler that’s integrated onto the boot section.
Move on to the inside and the Rapid facelift’s cabin gets a dual tone ebony sand trim along with footwell illumination that the brand calls amber glow.
For those anticipating a touchscreen, Skoda is now offering a 2-Din 6.5-inch colour touchscreen with MirrorLink connectivity, Bluetooth, usb and aux.
Skoda now drapes the Rapid facelift’s seats with either nano ivory fabric upholstery, or a perforated leatherette which includes the door armrest, steering wheel, gear shifter and the hand brake lever.
While the petrol powerplant and transmissions remain unchanged, the facelifted Rapid’s 1.5-litre diesel engine makes 110bhp (earlier 105bhp), while the torque remains identical.
