The Skoda Rapid, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2017, represents a significant offering in the compact hatchback segment, primarily targeted towards 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 1.6 MPI (110 Hp) Automatic variant, produced from 2018 to 2019, combined a traditional gasoline engine with the convenience of an automatic transmission, aiming to provide a balance of economy and usability for everyday drivers.
Skoda Rapid (Facelift 2017) 1.6 MPI Automatic: An Overview
The Rapid, launched initially in 2012 as a replacement for the Fabia Estate, was designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a vehicle with generous interior space and a large trunk. The 2017 facelift brought styling updates, improved equipment levels, and refinements to the engine range. The 1.6 MPI engine, a naturally aspirated four-cylinder unit, was a mainstay of the Rapid lineup, known for its reliability and reasonable fuel efficiency. The availability of an automatic transmission broadened the car’s appeal to a wider range of buyers, particularly in urban environments.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Skoda Rapid 1.6 MPI Automatic is a 1.6-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated EA111 / CWVA, produces 110 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 155 Nm (114.32 lb.-ft.) of torque between 3800 and 4000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for everyday driving. The engine’s naturally aspirated design contributes to a linear power delivery, making it predictable and easy to control. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 11 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7.8 kg/Nm.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission offers smooth gear changes and enhances driving comfort, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.6 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11 seconds. The top speed is rated at 193 km/h (119.92 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg or 46.3 UK mpg). Urban driving yields 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg), while extra-urban journeys achieve 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg).
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid is a five-door hatchback, offering practical access to the cabin and a spacious interior. The facelifted model features a revised front fascia with a more prominent grille and updated headlights, giving it a more modern appearance. The interior is characterized by its functional design and generous headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. A key selling point of the Rapid is its exceptionally large trunk capacity. With the rear seats up, the trunk offers 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.) of space, expanding to a substantial 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down.
The 1.6 MPI Automatic variant typically includes features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, in line with European standards, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver and passenger airbags. 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. The wheelbase measures 2602 mm (102.44 in.), contributing to a stable ride. Ride height (ground clearance) is 136 mm (5.35 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 MPI (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3800-4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CWVA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1215 kg (2678.62 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) |
| Length | 4483 mm (176.5 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1940 mm (76.38 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2602 mm (102.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1463 mm (57.6 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14; 195/55 R15; 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15; 16 |
In conclusion, the Skoda Rapid 1.6 MPI Automatic, while not available in the US market, was a compelling option for European buyers seeking a practical, spacious, and fuel-efficient hatchback. Its combination of a reliable engine, comfortable interior, and generous trunk space made it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
