The Skoda Rapid Spaceback, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2017, represents Skoda’s entry into the compact hatchback segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid Spaceback was a significant model for Skoda in the European market, offering a practical and affordable alternative to more established competitors. The 2017 facelift brought styling updates and, importantly, the introduction of a new 1.0 TSI engine, which is the focus of this article. This model aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and ample interior space, catering to families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback (Facelift 2017) 1.0 TSI: An Overview
The Rapid Spaceback is essentially the hatchback derivative of the Rapid sedan, designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing practicality and value. The “Spaceback” designation highlights the vehicle’s focus on maximizing interior space within a relatively compact footprint. The 2017 facelift refined the exterior design, bringing it in line with Skoda’s then-current design language. The introduction of the 1.0 TSI engine was a key element of this update, offering a modern, turbocharged powerplant designed to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions while still providing adequate performance for everyday driving.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2017 Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.0 TSI is a 999cc, three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine, part of Volkswagen Group’s EA211 engine family, produces 95 horsepower (Hp) and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. The use of direct fuel injection and a turbocharger allows for a surprisingly responsive driving experience despite the small displacement. 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 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.5 seconds. The top speed is rated at 184 km/h (114.33 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg), making it an economical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys. CO2 emissions are rated at 103 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. The 2017 facelift brought changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille, headlights, and bumper. These updates gave the car a more modern and refined appearance. Inside, the Spaceback offers a spacious cabin for its size, with comfortable seating for five passengers. A key feature is the generous trunk space, offering 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and expanding to 1381 liters (48.77 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a range of airbags. The vehicle’s suspension utilizes a conventional setup with ventilated discs on the front and discs on the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The electric power steering contributes to ease of maneuverability. 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.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid Spaceback |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TSI (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 103 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp |
| Power per litre | 95.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 / CHZB |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 580 kg (1278.68 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 | 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.0 TSI (2017 facelift) offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and affordable hatchback. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies Skoda’s commitment to providing value and functionality in a competitive segment.
