The Skoda Rapid, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2017, represents a significant offering in the European compact hatchback segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid served as a crucial model for Skoda, providing an affordable and practical option for families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle. The 1.4 TDI variant, producing 90 horsepower, was a popular choice due to its fuel efficiency and suitability for both urban and long-distance driving. This article details the specifications and characteristics of the 2017-2019 Skoda Rapid 1.4 TDI (90 Hp).
Skoda Rapid (Facelift 2017) 1.4 TDI: Overview
The Skoda Rapid, launched initially in 2012, was designed to fill a gap in Skoda’s lineup between the Fabia and the Octavia. The 2017 facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced safety features. The 1.4 TDI engine option was a mainstay, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and reasonable performance. The Rapid competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra in the European market, offering a compelling combination of space, practicality, and value. It was positioned as a sensible, no-frills option, emphasizing functionality over outright luxury.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Skoda Rapid 1.4 TDI is a 1.4-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. This engine, identified by the EA288 / CUSB code, produces 90 horsepower (Hp) and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and an intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.7 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 11.1 seconds. The top speed is rated at 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging contribute to its impressive fuel economy, with combined fuel consumption rated at 4.0 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg or 70.6 UK mpg). The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards and incorporates a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Design & Features
The 2017 Skoda Rapid facelift features a redesigned front fascia with a more prominent grille and updated headlights. The hatchback body style offers a practical and spacious interior. The vehicle seats five passengers and provides 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, enhanced in the facelifted model, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and driver and passenger airbags. The Rapid’s design prioritizes functionality and practicality, offering a comfortable and spacious interior for passengers and ample cargo capacity. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4483 mm (176.5 in.) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in.) in width, and 1461 mm (57.52 in.) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TDI (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.8 kg/Hp, 72.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp |
| Power per litre | 63.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CUSB |
| Engine displacement | 1422 cm3 (86.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1244 kg (2742.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1704 kg (3756.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 620 kg (1366.87 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
The Skoda Rapid 1.4 TDI (2017-2019) offered a practical and economical transportation solution for European buyers. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies Skoda’s commitment to providing value-driven vehicles with a focus on functionality and fuel efficiency.
