The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TDI (90 Hp) DSG is a compact hatchback produced by the Czech automaker Skoda between 2015 and 2017. Positioned as a more practical and affordable option within the European market, the Spaceback is a derivative of the Rapid hatchback, distinguished by its shorter overall length and a more aggressively styled rear end. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid Spaceback represents Skoda’s commitment to offering value-driven vehicles with a focus on fuel efficiency and practicality, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and economical city car. It competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra in the European B-segment.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TDI: Overview and Market Position
The Rapid Spaceback was designed to broaden Skoda’s appeal, offering a more stylish alternative to the standard Rapid. The “Spaceback” designation highlights the vehicle’s focus on interior space and versatility despite its compact dimensions. Skoda, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, leverages shared platforms and technologies to deliver vehicles that balance cost-effectiveness with modern features. The 1.4 TDI variant, equipped with a diesel engine and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), was a popular choice for European drivers prioritizing fuel economy and low running costs.
Engine & Performance
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TDI (90 Hp) DSG is powered by a 1.4-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. This engine, part of Volkswagen Group’s EA288 engine family (specifically the CUSB code), produces 90 horsepower (Hp) and 230 Newton-meters (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), which provides smooth and rapid gear changes. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.7 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 11.1 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). A key characteristic of this powertrain is its fuel efficiency, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers (61.9 US mpg or 74.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. Its shorter length compared to the standard Rapid results in a more compact footprint, making it easier to maneuver in urban environments. The Spaceback offers seating for five passengers and a generous amount of cargo space. The rear seats can be folded down to increase the luggage capacity from 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.) to 1381 liters (48.77 cu. ft.). Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The vehicle’s interior is designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a user-friendly layout. The electric power steering provides light and precise handling. The Spaceback’s design, while not overtly sporty, offers a modern and appealing aesthetic, aligning with Skoda’s brand identity of offering sensible and well-equipped vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TDI (90 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 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 | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp, 76.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp |
| Power per litre | 63.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CUSB |
| Engine displacement | 1422 cm3 (86.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1175 kg (2590.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 415 l (14.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1381 l (48.77 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 | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Length | 4304 mm (169.45 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 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 | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TDI DSG, while not available in the US market, represents a significant offering in the European compact hatchback segment, prioritizing fuel efficiency, practicality, and value for money.
