The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop is a compact hatchback produced by the Czech automaker Skoda between 2013 and 2015. Positioned as a more stylish and versatile alternative to the standard Rapid sedan, the Spaceback offered a practical and fuel-efficient option in the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid and its Spaceback variant were significant models for Skoda, contributing to the brand’s growing popularity and reputation for value and engineering. The Spaceback aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a smaller, more maneuverable vehicle without sacrificing interior space or practicality.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback: Overview and Market Position
The Rapid Spaceback is essentially a hatchback derivative of the Rapid, designed to broaden the model’s appeal. Skoda, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, primarily serves the European market, with a growing presence in other regions. The Spaceback was intended to compete with other small family hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. Its key selling points included a spacious interior for its class, a large trunk, and a range of efficient engines, including the 1.6 TDI diesel featured here. The “Spaceback” designation highlights the vehicle’s focus on maximizing interior volume within a relatively compact footprint.
Engine & Performance
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6 TDI is powered by a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, designated EA189 / CAYC. This engine produces 105 horsepower at 4,400 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 9.8 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). A key feature of this engine is its Start & Stop system, designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during urban driving. The engine’s 1598 cm³ displacement (97.52 cu. in.) and common rail diesel injection system contribute to its balance of performance and economy.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. It offers seating for five passengers and a generous 415-liter (14.66 cu. ft.) trunk space, expandable to 1380 liters (48.73 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4304 mm (169.45 in.) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height. The Spaceback features a McPherson independent suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s design prioritizes practicality and space utilization, making it a suitable choice for families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle. The kerb weight of 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) contributes to its relatively nimble handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CAYC |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 415 l (14.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1380 l (48.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 134 mm (5.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15; 215/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 7.0J x 16 |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6 TDI represented a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and reasonably priced hatchback. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies Skoda’s commitment to providing value and engineering within the Volkswagen Group’s portfolio.
