The next generation
Skoda Rapid is slated to arrive in 2021. IAB's automotive illustrator has
created a mock-up of next-gen Rapid sharing a glimpse of what the all-new Honda
City/Maruti Ciaz challenger may look like.
The rendering is created using the new VW Virtus as
a template. The nose is an evolution of the current crop of Skodas designed
based on the crystal-glass styling. The sides have the characteristic Tornado
line stretching across the length of the car.
Up front, there's Skoda's signature Butterfly grille
accompanied by sharp headlamps with LEDs and projector units. It gets an
Octavia-like lower grille and fog lamp housings enhanced by chrome
embellishments.
The VW Virtus is the sedan derivative of the sixth
generation VW Polo, which uses MQB A0 underpinnings. For the Indian market,
Volkswagen group will utilise a re-engineered version of this platform labelled
MQB A0 IN. Both the new generation VW Vento and the Skoda Rapid will be made
using this architecture.
The Volkswagen Group has announced an investment to
the tune of USD 1.1 billion directed primarily towards the development of the
new platform and related products. The company will locally manufacture its 1.0
L 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine in India which will power the upcoming
models. The 1.5 L TDI diesel unit will not make it beyond 2020, once the BSVI
emission norms come into effect. Therefore, the 2021 Skoda Rapid will be a
petrol-only model.
