Skoda Auto India, the local subsidiary of the VW-owned Czech carmaker, has launched the Rapid Rider Plus variant in India at a starting price of Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The new version of the C2-segment sedan comes with with a TSI 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. However, the highlight of the new variant is the state-of-the-art 16.51cm colour touchscreen central infotainment system with SmartLink technology that is compatible with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Visually, the Skoda Rapid Rider Plus looks similar to other variants of the C2-segment sedan but what sets it apart are some minor factors, including a black-finished Skoda grille, stylish side foils, glossy black trim on the B pillars, trunk lip garnish and updated window chrome garnish.
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Inside, the new Skoda Rapid Rider Plus carries a dual-tone Ebony Sand colour theme with Ivory Slate upholstery. The car also gets stainless-steel scuff plates with Rapid branding. The dashboard is flanked by the aforementioned 16.51cm colour touchscreen central infotainment system. Another highlight of the cabin is the Climatronic technology with dust and pollen.
Powering the new Skoda Rapid Rider Plus is the same 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder TSI petrol engine that propels other variants in the range. This motor offers a maximum power of 110 PS and a peak torque of 175 Nm. The motor comes mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. For now, there’s no automatic transmission option available on the Rapid. However, the company will launch a torque converter automatic option later this year.
| Skoda Rapid Rider Plus | Specs |
| Engine | 1.0 TSI Petrol, In-line, 4 Stroke Positive Ignition Direct Injection Engine |
| Displacement | 999cc |
| No. of cylinders | 3 |
| Maximum Power | 109 bhp@5000-5500 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 175 Nm@1750-4000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Front Suspension | McPherson Suspension With Lower Triangular Links And Torsion Stabiliser |
| Rear Suspension | Compound Link Crank-axle |
The safety suite on the new Skoda Rapid Rider Plus includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, anti-glare interior rearview mirror, rear windscreen defogger with timer, front height-adjustable three-point seatbelts, rough road package that comes with an underbody bash plate, fuel supply cut off in event of an accident, and engine immobiliser with a floating code system. The new model has gone on sale in four colour shades- Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, and Toffee Brown. The new model goes on to rival the likes of Maruti Ciaz, Honda City, VW Vento, Hyundai Verna and Toyota Yaris.
Speaking on the launch of the new Skoda Rapid Rider Plus, Zac Hollis, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, commented – “Skoda Auto India recently introduced the new Rapid TSI range of products that now boasts state of the art 1.0 TSI petrol engine offering exceptional power output and excellent fuel economy. An overwhelming response from brand loyalists and auto enthusiasts from across the nation has obligated the Czech marque to push the yardstick further and broaden the Rapid range. The Rider Plus offers a compelling combination of the brand’s emotive design, exquisite interiors and class-leading safety features, at a very competitive price point. It is deemed to be a best seller setting the benchmark for functionality, practicality and spaciousness in its segment.”
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