The Skoda Rapid Spaceback, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2017, represents Skoda’s entry into the compact hatchback segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Rapid Spaceback was a significant model for Skoda in the European market, offering a practical and affordable alternative to more established competitors. The 2017 facelift brought styling updates and, importantly, the introduction of a new 1.0 TSI engine, aimed at improving fuel efficiency and appealing to a broader customer base. This model aimed to provide a versatile vehicle for urban and family use, emphasizing space and value.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback (Facelift 2017) 1.0 TSI: An Overview
The Rapid Spaceback is essentially the hatchback version of the Rapid, a compact car initially launched as a sedan. Skoda positioned the Spaceback as a more youthful and dynamic offering, targeting buyers who prioritized practicality and a modern design. The 2017 facelift focused on refining the exterior aesthetics and introducing updated technology, including the efficient 1.0 TSI engine. This engine, a three-cylinder turbocharged unit, became a key selling point, offering a balance of performance and economy. The Spaceback competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra in Europe.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2017 Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.0 TSI is the EA211 series 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated CHZC. This engine produces 110 horsepower (Hp) and 200 Newton-meters (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 3500 rpm. The direct injection system and turbocharger contribute to its responsiveness and efficiency. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, the Spaceback achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.3 seconds. Its top speed is rated at 198 km/h (123.03 mph). The engine’s relatively small displacement (999 cm3 or 60.96 cu. in.) and lightweight construction contribute to a weight-to-power ratio of 10.8 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.9 kg/Nm. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg or 61.4 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 106 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. The 2017 facelift brought revised front and rear bumpers, a redesigned grille, and updated headlight and taillight designs, giving the car a more contemporary appearance. Inside, the Spaceback prioritizes practicality and space. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.), expanding to 1381 liters (48.77 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, an infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and various safety systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Spaceback’s interior design is functional and straightforward, focusing on usability rather than lavish luxury. The kerb weight of 1185 kg (2612.48 lbs.) contributes to its nimble handling. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4304 mm (169.45 in.) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height – position it squarely within the compact hatchback class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid Spaceback |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TSI (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp |
| Power per litre | 110.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 / CHZC |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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 | 1185 kg (2612.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 590 kg (1300.73 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 | 1457 mm (57.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1494 mm (58.82 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback (facelift 2017) 1.0 TSI offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and affordable compact hatchback. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies Skoda’s commitment to providing value and functionality in a competitive segment.
