The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI (122 Hp) DSG is a compact hatchback produced by the Czech automaker Skoda between 2013 and 2015. Positioned as a more stylish and versatile alternative to the standard Rapid sedan, the Spaceback targeted European buyers seeking a practical yet modern vehicle. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid Spaceback represents Skoda’s commitment to offering value-driven vehicles with a focus on functionality and fuel efficiency within the European market. It’s important to note that Skoda is part of the Volkswagen Group, and the Rapid Spaceback shares many components and technologies with other VW Group vehicles.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The Rapid Spaceback emerged as Skoda’s answer to the growing demand for compact hatchbacks in Europe. It was designed to appeal to young families and individuals who needed a flexible and economical vehicle for daily use. The “Spaceback” designation highlights the car’s emphasis on interior space and practicality, offering a generous trunk capacity for its class. Skoda, known for its “simply clever” features and robust engineering, aimed to deliver a well-equipped and reliable vehicle at a competitive price point. The 1.4 TSI engine with the DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) was a popular configuration, balancing performance with fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI is powered by a 1.4-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated EA111 / CAXA. This engine produces 122 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 87.8 hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.4 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.9 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 203 km/h (126.14 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) combined, with 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) in urban conditions and 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 134 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a relatively conservative but modern design. It features a sloping roofline that distinguishes it from the standard Rapid sedan, contributing to its more dynamic appearance. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. Key features include a spacious trunk with a minimum capacity of 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.) which expands to 1380 liters (48.73 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety equipment includes ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s dimensions are 4304 mm (169.45 in.) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2602 mm (102.44 in.). The suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a semi-independent coil spring arrangement at the rear. Brakes are ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear. Steering is rack and pinion. Available tire sizes include 185/60 R15 and 215/45 R16, mounted on 6.0J x 15 and 7.0J x 16 inch wheel rims, respectively.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (122 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CAXA |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1225 kg (2700.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1685 kg (3714.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 415 l (14.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1380 l (48.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4304 mm (169.45 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2602 mm (102.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1463 mm (57.6 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 134 mm (5.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Tiptronic |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI DSG, while not a performance car, offered a compelling package of practicality, efficiency, and value for European buyers. Its blend of a turbocharged engine, a smooth-shifting DSG transmission, and a spacious interior made it a popular choice in the competitive compact hatchback segment.
