2020 Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI: Which variant to choose?
The 2020 Skoda Rapid was introduced in five models, with a rather competitive Rs 7.49 lakh (ex-showroom) starting rates. Nonetheless, a new version of Rapid Rider Plus has recently been introduced to the line-up, bringing the total number of trimmings on offer to six. When you’re talking about putting good money down for the Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI but don’t know which edition is right for you, here’s our buyer’s guide.
Although an automatic 6-speed torque converter option is scheduled to arrive in September, for now, the 2020 Skoda Rapid TSI only comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox, coupled with a zingy 110hp, 175Nm, 1.0-liter turbo-petrol engine. Our analysis of the 2020 Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI found that the engine lets the car live up to its name – it also surpasses the current 121hp Honda City petrol in terms of acceleration, and continues to a top speed of 195kph. An ARAI-rated fuel-efficiency figure of 18.97kpl means that Rapid 2020 is expected to be decently frugal too.
The Rapid Rider is priced in the same range as compact sedans with a Rs 7.49 lakh (ex-showroom) price tag, but still gets a sufficient amount of accessories. Standard safety features include dual front airbags, a rear defogger, remote central locking, height-adjustable front seatbelts, and adjustable front and rear headrests. In terms of creature comforts, it’s not bare-bones either – 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, halogen headlights, front and rear middle armrests, brake and steering control, a 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth, USB and Aux connectivity, four speakers, automatic air-conditioning, rear AC vents, power-adjustable wing mirrors, one-touch up/down power windows and 12V charging ports.
Demand for this version of the entry-level was such that bookings for 2020 Skoda Rapid Rider had to be temporarily suspended.
With the Rs 50,000 premium you pay for the newly released Rapid Rider Plus, you’ll get features including a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink compatibility, along with two more exterior color choices – Brilliant Silver and Toffee Brown, in addition to Candy White and Carbon Steel – and some chrome highlights on the window line and boot cover.
While there is a very wide price difference between the Rider Plus and the Ambition model in Rs 2 lakh, somewhat. Features such as projector headlights, LED DRLs, front and rear fog lights, remote-operated power windows, 15-inch alloy wheels, driver’s seat height adjustment, power-folding wing mirrors, steering mounted audio controls, gear knob leatherette, steering, and hand brake lever and digital multi-info monitor have been added to the instrument cluster for the extra outlay.
The Rs 20,000 more you pay for Ambition for the Rapid Onyx gets you black-finished, 16-inch alloys, black-out wing mirrors, trunk lip, and side molding, a flat-bottom steering wheel with black stitching, and grey and black leatherette upholstery. There are also only two color options available-Lapiz Blue and Candy White.
In addition to front side airbags, the Style gets premium equipment such as automatic headlights and wipers, a rear parking camera, an internal rear-view mirror auto-dimming, a body-colored rear lip spoiler, an Android-based 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system (which is not compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), interior lighting, cruise control, and a cooled glovebox. This also comes in all four exterior colors.
The 2020 Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo is purely a cosmetic upgrade over the Style variant since the Onyx is to the Ambition. There are two paint choices – Flash Red and Candy White – along with a black-out windshield, roof and boot lip spoiler, 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, red highlights in the cabin, and on the steering wheel, Monte Carlo insignia outside and Monte Carlo built into the seats. Remember that the Monte Carlo bears dual front airbags.
The 2020 Skoda Rapid Rider Plus is the version that provides the best value for money proposition. It tests all the safety kit requires and is also fitted with a good amount of creature comforts and software.
If you don’t have a tight budget, choose the Rapid Model-it might lack some of the Monte Carlo’s visual charm, but it gets two more airbags while costing Rs 30,000 less.
Tell us what you think about the 2020 Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI? Comment down below
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