Skoda recently revealed a new version of the Rapid sedan for the international markets. However, in India, the current model has been marching for almost a decade, and a replacement is due only by 2021. Skoda under the India 2.0 initiative have already started working on a new-generation Rapid sedan, which will be based on the MQB A0 IN platform. The new model will obviously replace the current Rapid, and will better it in almost every aspect. The new Skoda mid-size sedan will rival the usual Honda City, Toyota Yaris, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz & Hyundai Verna.
To be sold as a notchback as Skoda likes to call it, the new Rapid sedan is codenamed ANB, as per top officials on social media. The new made-for-India Skoda Rapid will also share its underpinnings with a new SUV which will make a global debut at the 2020 Auto Expo in India. The MQB A0 IN platform will be modular, and multiple cars across various body styles will be built around it and placed in Skoda as well as Volkswagen showrooms.
Reports hint that the new Rapid will have design cues from the recent Volkswagen Virtus sedan and will obviously have a Vento sibling placed in Volkswagen showrooms. The new Skoda Rapid is expected to be nearly 100mm longer allowing for more room inside the cabin, compared to the current model. Of course it will get all the latest features such as 16″ alloy wheels, LED headlamp and tail lamps, LED DRLs, leather upholstery, touchscreen infotainment, climate control, rear AC vents, digital speedometer, etc.
While it is too early to speculate on engine specs, we expect a 1.0L turbo-petrol motor to be on offer, but the future of diesel cars in Skoda, Volkswagen & Audi cars in India seems uncertain post BS6 implementation.
