Skoda India has altered line-up of Rapid sedan which is now being offered in three trims viz; Active, Ambition Plus and Elegance. Ambition trim which was earlier on offer is no longer available for sale in India. The recently launched Rapid facelift is available in both petrol and diesel engine options. Petrol variant is packed with a 1.6 litre MPI mill that engenders a top power of 105 Bhp and a maximum torque of 153 Nm. Diesel version on the other hand is equipped with a 1.6 litre turbocharger powertrain generating 105 Bhp and 250 Nm torque.
Rapid’s new Ambition Plus variant is loaded with various safety features and comfort features like dual airbags in the front, child proof-rear window locking, steering mounted controls, leather-wrapped steering, Bluetooth and USB compatibility, supply cut-off in a crash, acoustic warning signal for overrun and several others.
The high end variant, Rapid Elegance comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, climate control, halogen front passenger seat adjustment from rear seat and projector headlights with manual levelling. The recent tweak given to Rapid seems to be working in its favour as the company has witnessed around 30% rise in sales. The new Octavia too has a waiting period of 4 months, which implies that the premium sedan has been able to strike a chord with the customers.
Skoda currently has Octavia, new Superb, Yeti and Fabia in its India portfolio. However, the company will plan more products for the domestic market in 2014 and soon more vehicles will be added to its clan of cars in India. The company also plans to launch upgraded version of Yeti SUV in the second half of 2014. Skoda will also work on expanding its after sales service which further contribute in improving sales.
