Skoda has facelifted its Rapid and Rapid Spaceback models for 2017, introducing not just new styling but also a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. The updated models will be presented to the public at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show this March.
The Rapid and Rapid Spaceback are smaller hatches in the Skoda range which sit between the Fabia and Octavia, with the Spaceback sporting a more traditional hatch appearance, whereas the standard Rapid is more saloon-esque in appearance.
Design updates for the Rapid and Rapid Spaceback include upgraded bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. A new chrome strip connects the headlights and the taillights have also been updated with optional LEDs. New alloy wheels available in 15, 16 and 17-inches are introduced too.
There are some interior updates too, including new inlays on the doors and a redesigned switchgear for the air conditioning.
Also updated are the air vents and the infotainment device. The latter now comes optionally with Skoda Connect services which support live traffic updates and CareConnect support. Extra USB ports are also added for the benefit of rear passengers.
The new compact, turbocharged petrol engine – a 1.0-litre TSI from Volkswagen Group – is already available on the latest Volkswagen Up! and Volkswagen Golf. It offers two power outputs for the facelifted Rapid range – 94bhp or 108bhp.
In its 94bhp guise, the Rapid with its new turbo petrol can travel from zero to 62mph in 11 seconds and it returns a claimed fuel economy of 64.2mpg. CO2 emissions are at 101g/km. The 108bhp version of the engine gives the Rapid a quicker 0-62mph sprint time of 9.8 seconds and fuel economy and CO2 figures are at 62.7mpg and 104g/km respectively.
Other engines available for the facelifted Rapid and Rapid Spaceback include a 1.4-litre petrol and 1.4 and 1.6-litre diesels.
Expect pricing for the updated Rapid and Rapid Spaceback to start from around £17,000 and £14,000 respectively when they launch later this year.
