The giant Czech car maker, Skoda seems to bring a huge buzz to the Indian market with the launch of its eagerly awaited Rapid, most probably on 16th November 2011. The car is inspired by its sibling Volkswagen Vento in terms of design. The class leading sedan would thus head straight towards the Honda City for competition. The premium sedan segment of the Indian car market has witnessed long time dominance by Honda City, however, things are expected to change drastically with Rapid's entry. The sedan has been manufactured locally at the company’s Chakan facility in Pune.
Carrying a 1.6-litre diesel and a 1598 cc petrol engine akin to Volkswagen Vento, the latest production of Skoda confirms to offer a powerful performance. The brand Skoda has been already upped the ante in the market with outstanding sales performance of Fabia and Laura. Therefore, the Czech car maker will not have to start things from scratch in order to make a favourable market for its new sedan Rapid. Moreover, the new car will be made available in diesel while Honda City comes only in petrol.
Rapid delivers an engine displacement of 1598 cc and with a maximum power of 104 hp and a maximum torque 153 Nm, it will pull the masses by being more powerful than Honda City which has a displacement of 1497 cc.
The fascinating Rapid will carry a well-defined front grille with little chrome lining and distinctly designed advanced headlamps. The new Skoda's green logo has been placed prominently at the centre of the grille. The front portion is lures further, with body coloured bumper carrying wide air dam and two fog lamps on each side. Skoda Rapid displays much strong and bold side fenders that goes well with the all-alloy wheels. The Outside Rear View Mirrors (ORVM) too, will have a body colour and indicators on it. The rear part of Skoda Rapid is expected to have high mounted brake light, besides two LED based rear lamps.
The interior of Rapid would display sheer class and luxury in order to compete with its rivals in India. The dash has been equipped with features like meters, glove box, music system and air conditioning. The air conditioning would raise its bar by inducing an automatic climate control feature in it.
The steering is expected to be surrounded by leather, having audio and cruise control buttons on it. Skoda Rapid would be able to accommodate 4 passengers with ease, with an overall seating capacity for 5 persons. At the rear, there will be a handrest with cup holder in the middle, to enhance the appearance of the seats. The height adjustable front driver seat and the passenger seat would surely offer a hassle-free experience while driving and a leather upholstery on the high-end models ensures to grab much attention.
The safety aspect of Skoda Rapid has been given utmost importance as two airbags for the driver and the front passenger, anti-lock braking system, front fog lamps, electronic brake force distribution and electronic stability program, among others, are present.
To enhance the comfortability, adjustable power steering, internally adjustable ORVMs with power fold feature, central locking, power windows, adjustable front seats, music system with MP3 and FM integrated with four speakers are being offered by Skoda.
Thus, Skoda Rapid is likely to make a distinct identity in the premium sedan segment in the domestic market and proves to be a great threat to the existing brands in the coming time.
