The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) DSG is a compact hatchback produced by the Czech automaker Skoda between 2015 and 2017. Positioned as a more stylish and versatile alternative to the standard Rapid sedan, the Spaceback offered a practical and affordable option within the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid Spaceback represents Skoda’s commitment to offering value-driven vehicles with modern technology and a focus on fuel efficiency. It’s important to note that Skoda is part of the Volkswagen Group, and the Rapid Spaceback shares many components and technologies with other vehicles in the VW portfolio.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI: Overview and Market Position
The Rapid Spaceback was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a spacious and practical hatchback with a touch of style. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the compact hatchback segment is highly competitive. Skoda aimed to differentiate the Spaceback through its generous interior space, modern features, and competitive pricing. The “Spaceback” designation highlights the vehicle’s emphasis on interior volume and cargo capacity compared to traditional hatchbacks. It served as an entry-level option for buyers looking for a well-equipped and efficient vehicle, often appealing to young families and urban commuters.
Engine & Performance
The 1.4 TSI engine is the heart of this particular Rapid Spaceback variant. This 1.4-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 125 horsepower (Hp) and 200 Newton-meters (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque. Peak torque is available from 1400 to 4000 rpm, providing a broad and usable powerband for everyday driving. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), which offers quick and smooth gear changes. This combination allows for a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 8.5-8.9 seconds, and a top speed of 127.38 mph (205 km/h). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle figures of 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers (49 US mpg or 58.9 UK mpg). The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards, reflecting its relatively clean operation.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. Its exterior styling features clean lines and a relatively understated appearance, typical of Skoda’s design language during this period. The Spaceback’s key design element is its sloping roofline, which contributes to its more dynamic and sporty profile compared to the standard Rapid sedan. Inside, the Spaceback offers a spacious cabin with seating for five passengers. The interior is well-built and features a functional layout with a focus on ergonomics. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, a multi-function steering wheel, and an infotainment system. Safety features, crucial for modern vehicles, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a range of airbags. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity, offering a minimum of 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.) and a maximum of 1381 liters (48.77 cu. ft.) with the seats folded. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1146 kg (2526.5 lbs), and it has a maximum permissible weight of 1681 kg (3705.97 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (125 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) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp |
| Power per litre | 89.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 / CZCA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1146 kg (2526.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1681 kg (3705.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 415 l (14.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1381 l (48.77 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| 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 | 1457 mm (57.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1494 mm (58.82 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 |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI DSG, while not a vehicle commonly found in the US market, represents a well-rounded and practical option for European buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and versatile compact hatchback. Its combination of a turbocharged engine, a smooth-shifting DSG transmission, and a spacious interior made it a competitive offering in its segment.
