The Skoda Rapid, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2017, represents a significant offering in the compact hatchback segment, primarily aimed at the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid filled a crucial niche for Skoda – a practical, affordable, and spacious vehicle positioned between the smaller Fabia and the larger Octavia. The 1.0 TSI (95 Hp) variant, produced from 2017 to 2019, was a popular choice, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday driving. This article details the specifications and characteristics of this specific model.
Skoda Rapid (Facelift 2017) 1.0 TSI: An Overview
The Rapid, first introduced in 2012 as a replacement for the Fabia Estate, was Skoda’s attempt to create a traditional, notchback saloon and hatchback that appealed to buyers seeking a more conventional design than the increasingly rounded styling of its competitors. The 2017 facelift brought a refreshed front end, updated interior features, and, importantly, the introduction of the 1.0 TSI engine. This engine, part of Volkswagen Group’s EA211 family, offered a modern, turbocharged alternative to the naturally aspirated engines previously available. The Rapid’s strength lay in its spacious interior and large trunk capacity, making it a practical choice for families and those needing to transport larger items.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2017 Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI is a 999cc, three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine produces 95 horsepower (Hp) and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to maximize efficiency and power output. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, the Rapid 1.0 TSI achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 10.5 seconds. Its top speed is rated at 187 km/h (116.2 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle figures of 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 103 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 12.3 kg/Hp, and torque-to-weight ratio is 7.3 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid (facelift 2017) is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. The design is characterized by clean lines and a practical, understated aesthetic. The facelift brought a more prominent grille, redesigned headlights, and updated bumpers, giving the car a more modern appearance. Inside, the Rapid prioritizes space and functionality. The rear seats offer ample legroom, and the trunk is exceptionally generous, offering 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, and expanding to 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) when folded down. Standard safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver and passenger airbags. Other features included electric power steering, a steering rack and pinion system, and 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R16 tires. The vehicle’s dimensions are 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).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid (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, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| 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 | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| 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 | 1170 kg (2579.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 580 kg (1278.68 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 | 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 | 215/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
The Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI (2017-2019) offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, 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.
