The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) is a compact hatchback produced by the Czech automaker Skoda between 2015 and 2017. Positioned as a practical and affordable option within the European market, the Spaceback represents a shortened, more style-focused version of the standard Skoda Rapid. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications provides insight into the popular compact segment prevalent in Europe and other global markets. The Spaceback aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle with good fuel economy and a reasonable price point.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6 TDI: Overview and Market Position
The Rapid Spaceback was designed to bridge the gap between traditional hatchbacks and small estate cars, offering a blend of practicality and contemporary styling. Skoda, a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, leveraged its parent company’s engineering expertise to create a vehicle that was both efficient and reliable. The Spaceback’s primary market was Europe, where compact hatchbacks are a dominant force in the automotive landscape. It competed with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308, offering a compelling alternative with Skoda’s reputation for value and build quality. The “Spaceback” designation highlights the vehicle’s focus on maximizing interior space within a relatively compact footprint.
Engine & Performance
The 1.6 TDI variant of the Rapid Spaceback is powered by a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the EA288 / CXMA. This engine produces 115 horsepower (Hp) and 250 Newton-meters (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance 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 9.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 9.4 seconds. The vehicle boasts a top speed of 198 km/h (123.03 mph). A key strength of this powertrain is its fuel efficiency. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers (61.9 US mpg or 74.3 UK mpg), with low CO2 emissions of 99 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. Its shorter wheelbase and rear overhang compared to the standard Rapid contribute to a more dynamic appearance. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a generous amount of space for a vehicle in its class. The trunk (boot) space is a notable feature, offering 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and expanding to 1381 liters (48.77 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Standard features typically included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a range of safety equipment designed to meet European safety standards. The Spaceback’s design prioritized practicality and usability, with a focus on providing a comfortable and functional driving experience. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1212 kg (2672 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 94.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 206.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXMA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1212 kg (2672 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 523 kg (1153.02 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 | 630 kg (1388.91 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and affordable hatchback. While not available in the US market, its specifications highlight the engineering and design priorities of Skoda and the broader Volkswagen Group during the mid-2010s.
