Update - More angles added to the image gallery.
Price of the 2017 Skoda Rapid will be announced tomorrow. [Edit - You can read the launch story here]
Initial stocks of the 2017 Skoda Rapid (facelift) have started arriving at dealerships, as seen in various spyshots from the web. It is confirmed to launch for sale on November 3.
Here's a pictorial comparison of the 2017 Skoda Rapid and the original model launched in 2012.
Exterior:
This is the first major facelift for the VW Vento-based Skoda Rapid. Upon first glance, the new Rapid's face looks sharper and more inline with the Euro-spec Skoda Fabia and Rapid. Most of the changes are concentrated up front, where it features a wider ‘butterfly’ grille directly flanked by angular headlamps (projector headlamps and small strip of LED DRLs available in top variants), and a cleaner bumper design with new foglamps housed in a single, bumper-wide intake.
Changes to the side profile are limited to the relocated turn indicators on the ORVMs and updated alloy wheel designs, while the rear profile features a slightly stepped bumper and shark fin antenna.
Engine and Gearbox:
Another notable change in the new Skoda Rapid is the updated 1.5L TDI engine sourced from the VW Ameo, which produces a slightly higher 110 PS and 250 Nm of torque.
Like the outgoing model, the diesel variant can be equipped with a 5-speed manual or 7-speed DSG. A petrol variant with a 1.6L four cylinder MPI petrol engine will continue to be available, which is paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
