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 refined engine options, including the 1.6 TDI diesel engine producing 116 horsepower. This model aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, interior space, and value for money, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile everyday vehicle.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback (Facelift 2017) 1.6 TDI: An Overview
The Rapid Spaceback is essentially the hatchback derivative of the Rapid sedan, designed to broaden Skoda’s appeal in the compact class. Introduced initially in 2013, the Spaceback offered a more youthful and dynamic alternative to the traditional sedan. The 2017 facelift focused on enhancing the car’s aesthetics and improving its overall refinement. The 1.6 TDI variant, equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, was a popular choice for its fuel economy and reasonable performance. It catered to drivers prioritizing efficiency and lower running costs, common considerations in the European automotive landscape.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2017 Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6 TDI is a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, identified by the EA288 / CXMA engine code. This engine produces 116 horsepower (Hp) and 250 Newton-meters (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler, enhancing its power output and efficiency. Power delivery is managed through a five-speed manual transmission, directing power to the front wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 9.4 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 198 km/h (123.03 mph). The engine’s design prioritizes fuel efficiency, achieving combined fuel consumption of 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers (56 US mpg or 67.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 109 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 revised front and rear bumpers, a redesigned grille, and updated headlight and taillight designs, giving the car a more modern appearance. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a reasonable amount of space for both passengers and luggage. 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 ventilated front disc brakes with rear discs. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs). The Rapid Spaceback aimed to provide a comfortable and practical driving experience, focusing on usability and value rather than outright luxury.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 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 | 11.1 kg/Hp, 89.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp |
| Power per litre | 72.6 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 |
| 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 | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 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.) |
| Drive wheel | 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 1.6 TDI (2017 facelift) offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and affordable compact hatchback. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies Skoda’s commitment to providing value and functionality in a competitive segment.
