Skoda has launched a new entry-level variant in the brand’s Rapid line-up, the new variant is a special edition model named Rapid Rider and is placed below the base Rapid Active petrol variant. The Rapid Rider costs around INR 1 lakh less than the base model Rapid Active.
On the exteriors, the model is only available in Candy White and Carbon Steel exterior paints along with 15-inch steel rims with wheel covers and gets elements such as an all-black grille, blacked-out ‘B’ pillars, black door decals, a black lip on the boot lid.
On the interiors, the Rapid Rider gets a dual-tone finish with a black dashboard and white upholstery and ‘Rapid’ inscribed scuff plates. In terms of equipment, the Rapid Rider is likely to be identical to the Rapid Active which features driver and passenger front airbags, front and rear centre armrest, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, rear windscreen defogger, anti-glare IRVM, manual air-conditioning, 2-DIN audio system with USB AUX and Bluetooth, four-speakers and rear AC vents.
In its standard form, the Skoda Rapid in India is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine with 105 HP of power coupled to a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 1.5-litre TDI diesel engine with 108.6 HP of power mated to a 5-speed manual and a 7-speed DSG automatic. The Rapid Rider is likely to get only one engine option the above mentioned 1.6-litre petrol engine along with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The Skoda Rapid Rider is priced at INR 6.99 lakh ex-showroom and from the price perspective, the Rapid Rider is priced below the competition in the mid-size sedan segment which is the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Toyota Yaris and Volkswagen Vento. At the price, the Rider can also compete with compact-sedan cars like Honda Amaze and Maruti Suzuki Dzire.