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 role for Skoda as an affordable, practical, and spacious vehicle positioned between the smaller Fabia and the larger Octavia. The 1.6 TDI variant, producing 116 horsepower, was a popular choice for its fuel efficiency and suitability for long-distance driving. This article details the specifications and characteristics of the 2017-2019 Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI.
Skoda Rapid (Facelift 2017) 1.6 TDI: An Overview
The Rapid, launched initially in 2012 as a replacement for the Fabia Estate, was Skoda’s attempt to offer a traditional, conventionally-shaped hatchback in a market increasingly dominated by more stylized designs. The 2017 facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced safety features. The 1.6 TDI engine was a mainstay of the Rapid lineup, providing a balance of performance and economy. It’s important to note that Skoda is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, and the Rapid shares many components with other VW Group vehicles, benefiting from their engineering expertise and reliability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2017-2019 Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI is a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, designated EA288 / CXMA. 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 with intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10 seconds, while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in around 9.5 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 201 km/h (124.9 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.2 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 5.2 kg/Nm. The engine’s 16.2:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, optimizing combustion efficiency.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid is a five-door hatchback offering seating for five passengers. The 2017 facelift brought a revised front fascia with a new grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the car a more modern appearance. Inside, the Rapid offers a practical and spacious cabin. A key selling point is its generous trunk space, offering 550 liters (19.42 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and expanding to 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) when folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. Safety features, enhanced in the facelifted model, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and driver and passenger airbags. The Rapid’s design prioritizes practicality and functionality over outright style, making it a popular choice for families and those needing a versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid (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 | 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 | 11.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| 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 |
| 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 | 1295 kg (2854.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 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%) | 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 | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
The Skoda Rapid 1.6 TDI (2017-2019) offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and spacious hatchback. While not available in the US market, it remains a popular and well-regarded vehicle in Europe, known for its reliability and value.
