The Skoda Rapid, introduced in 2012, is a compact hatchback designed primarily for the European market. Positioned between the Fabia and Octavia in Skoda’s lineup, the Rapid aimed to offer a practical and affordable family vehicle with a spacious interior and a focus on value. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid represents Skoda’s commitment to producing well-engineered vehicles that cater to the needs of everyday drivers. The 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) DSG variant, produced from 2015 to 2017, combined a turbocharged gasoline engine with a dual-clutch transmission for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Skoda Rapid 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) DSG: An Overview
The Rapid was conceived as a modern, five-door hatchback offering a compelling alternative to traditional saloon cars in the compact segment. Skoda, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, leveraged its engineering expertise to create a vehicle that prioritized interior space and practicality. The 1.2 TSI engine, a mainstay of the Volkswagen Group’s powertrain offerings, provided a good balance of power and economy. The inclusion of a DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) further enhanced the driving experience by offering smooth and rapid gear changes.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Skoda Rapid 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) DSG is a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. Designated the EA211 / CJZC engine code, this powerplant produces 90 horsepower (Hp) and 160 Newton-meters (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 3500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to boost engine output and improve efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a sophisticated seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. This transmission allows for both automatic and manual gear selection, providing a responsive and engaging driving experience.
Performance figures indicate a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.4 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 10.8 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers (50 US mpg / 60.1 UK mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 109 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid is a traditional five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its design prioritizes functionality over flamboyant aesthetics, resulting in a clean and understated appearance. The interior is designed to maximize space, offering comfortable seating for five passengers and a generous 550-liter (19.42 cu. ft.) trunk capacity, expandable to 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.
Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The Rapid’s suspension utilizes a conventional setup with ventilated discs on the front and discs on the rear. Electric power steering provides a light and responsive feel. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1124 kg (2478 lbs) contributes to its relatively nimble handling. The Rapid was designed to be a practical and affordable family car, focusing on providing a comfortable and reliable driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid (2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | May, 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg / 48.7 UK mpg / 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg / 68.9 UK mpg / 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg / 60.1 UK mpg / 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp, 80.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 142.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp |
| Power per litre | 75.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1400-3500 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 / CJZC |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1124 kg (2478 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1659 kg (3657.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1490 l (52.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Length | 4483 mm (176.5 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2602 mm (102.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1463 mm (57.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |

