Changes are focussed on the mechanical front.
Skoda Auto India have confirmed the launch of the 'new' Skoda Rapid on September 25. As previously reported design changes will not be seen as the company is planning a more thorough facelift with Indian inputs for next year. The launch will hinge on the introduction of a new diesel engine.
The engine in question is the new 1.5-liter four-cylinder TDI diesel which debuted on the refreshed Polo a couple of months ago. The 1.5 TDI will replace the current 1.6 TDI, and will add to it an automatic transmission as well.
The 1.5 TDI unit is likely to produce 105 PS (103.52 bhp) and 250 Nm of torque in the Rapid. The standard transmission will be a 5-speed manual, but for the first time, Skoda will offer a 6-speed DSG gearbox with this engine. The Rapid TDI DSG will compete with the Verna diesel automatic, which is currently the only car in its segment to offer an automatic transmission with a diesel engine.
Also read: New Skoda Fabia not coming to India
The Rapid is produced at VW India's plant in Chakan, Maharashtra. Towards the end of this year, the 1.5 TDI engine will be assembled in this plant.
Competitor: Hyundai Verna 1.6 Diesel AT
Expected Price: INR 10.5 lakhs ex-Showroom for Diesel AT
Launch date: September 25, 2014
