The Skoda Rapid, specifically the 1.6 TDI variant produced between 2015 and 2017, is a compact hatchback that served as a crucial model in Skoda’s lineup, particularly within the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid filled a vital niche as an affordable, practical, and spacious family vehicle. Positioned below the Octavia, it offered a compelling alternative to other small hatchbacks, emphasizing value for money and a surprisingly generous interior. This article details the technical specifications and characteristics of the 2015-2017 Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) model.
Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI (2015-2017): An Overview
The Rapid represented Skoda’s attempt to create a more traditionally styled, budget-friendly hatchback. Unlike some of its more avant-garde competitors, the Rapid adopted a conservative design language, prioritizing practicality and interior space. The 1.6 TDI engine was a popular choice, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday driving. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a reliable and economical vehicle for commuting and family use. The Rapid’s success in Europe stemmed from its competitive pricing, spaciousness, and the reputation for build quality that Skoda had cultivated.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI is a 1.6-liter, inline-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 features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing power output and efficiency. Power per liter is rated at 72 Hp/l. The engine utilizes a Diesel Commonrail fuel injection system and boasts a compression ratio of 16.2:1. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 9.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 201 km/h (124.9 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 4.9 kg/Nm. The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards and incorporates a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Design & Features
The 2015-2017 Skoda Rapid is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. It offers seating for five passengers and boasts a generous trunk capacity. The vehicle measures 4483 mm (176.5 in) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in) in width, and 1461 mm (57.52 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2602 mm (102.44 in). The front and rear tracks measure 1457 mm (57.36 in) and 1494 mm (58.82 in) respectively. A key feature of the Rapid is its spacious interior and large trunk, offering 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ventilated front discs, and rear discs. The steering system is an electric power steering rack and pinion type. The minimum turning circle is 10.9 meters (35.76 ft).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid (2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 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 | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| 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 | 1217 kg (2683.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 523 kg (1153.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1490 l (52.62 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 | 4483 mm (176.5 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 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 |
The Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI (2015-2017) offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a practical, economical, and spacious hatchback. While not available in the US market, it was a significant player in the European automotive landscape, demonstrating Skoda’s commitment to providing value and quality in the compact car segment.
