Just weeks after the Chinese-spec next-gen Skoda
Rapid got leaked, the next-gen Skoda Rapid for Russia has been teased. The same
version should be sold in Europe and CIS too. It will be revealed by the end of
this year.
The Russian-spec next-gen Skoda Rapid seen here
looks similar to the Chinese-spec version. The design at the front is
reminiscent of the Euro-spec Skoda Scala that sits on the MQB A0 platform.
Compared to the old model, the all-new has a much sharper appearance. The
three-part angular headlamps should be LED units, as opposed to the oddly
shaped, halogen units of the outgoing car. The new signature grille between
these headlamps also elevates the modern look, while the front bumper with
pronounced outer ends lends a dose of sportiness. The fog lights are also much
sleeker but we doubt they're LED units. Their smaller footprint and higher
positioning have allowed for a wider lower grille.
The profile of the all-new model is not all that
different compared to that of the old model. The flattish roofline and
bow-shaped greenhouse give a traditional sedan styling. Whether it's a liftback
or a sedan, though, will be known once the rear-end is revealed. Skoda is yet
to disclose if the MQB A0 platform is underpinning the redesigned Rapid or if
it's the PQ25 platform of the first-gen car. Our bets are on the former. The
Indian-spec version due in 2021, is going to sit on the MQB A0 IN platform, and
if it ends up looking anything close to the version seen in the teaser, it
should be an instant hit.
Depending on the market, the next-gen Skoda Rapid
seen in the teaser could be offered with 1.0L TSI turbocharged petrol and 1.5L
TSI turbocharged petrol and 1.6L TDI turbocharged diesel engines. The
Indian-spec next-gen Skoda Rapid will most definitely employ the 1.0 TSI
turbocharged petrol engine, likely in the 115 PS/250 Nm version.
