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 1.6 MPI (90 horsepower) variant, produced from 2018 to 2019, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency and everyday usability. This article details the specifications and characteristics of this specific model.
Skoda Rapid (Facelift 2017) 1.6 MPI (90 Hp): An Overview
The Rapid, launched initially in 2012, was Skoda’s attempt to create a traditional, notchback-style hatchback – a body style increasingly uncommon in Western Europe. The 2017 facelift brought updated styling, improved interior features, and refinements to the engine lineup. The 1.6 MPI engine, a naturally aspirated four-cylinder, was a mainstay of the range, offering reliable performance and reasonable running costs. It was designed to appeal to families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle for daily commutes and occasional longer journeys. The Rapid’s strength lay in its generous interior space, particularly the large trunk, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing functionality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Skoda Rapid 1.6 MPI (90 Hp) is a 1.6-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated EA111 / CWVB, produces 90 horsepower at 4,250-6,000 rpm and 155 Nm (114.32 lb.-ft.) of torque between 3,800 and 4,000 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a naturally aspirated configuration, meaning it doesn’t rely on a turbocharger or supercharger for forced induction. This results in a linear power delivery, making it predictable and easy to drive. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 56.3 Hp/l.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.4 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.8 seconds. The top speed is rated at 185 km/h (114.95 mph). Fuel economy figures are respectable for its class, with combined cycle consumption rated at 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l). Urban fuel consumption is 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l), and extra-urban consumption is 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l). The vehicle meets Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its design prioritizes practicality over outright sportiness, with a focus on maximizing interior space. The 2017 facelift brought subtle styling updates, including revised front and rear bumpers, a redesigned grille, and updated headlight and taillight designs.
Inside, the Rapid offers a functional and well-built cabin. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with logically placed controls. Key features included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as those found in more modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver and passenger airbags. The standout feature of the Rapid is its exceptionally large trunk capacity. With the rear seats up, it offers 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.) of space, and this expands to a substantial 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. This makes it one of the most spacious hatchbacks in its class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 MPI (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4250-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3800-4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 3800-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CWVB |
| 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 | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 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 (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual 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 (90 Hp) offered a compelling package for buyers in Europe seeking a practical, spacious, and affordable hatchback. While not available in the US market, it exemplified Skoda’s commitment to delivering value and functionality in a competitive segment.
