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 technological enhancements to the original Rapid Spaceback, aiming to improve its appeal and competitiveness. This article focuses on the 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) Automatic variant, detailing its specifications, performance, and features.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback (Facelift 2017) 1.4 TSI: Overview
The Rapid Spaceback is essentially the hatchback version of the Skoda Rapid, a car designed to fill a gap in Skoda’s lineup between the smaller Fabia and the larger Octavia. The “Spaceback” designation highlights its more compact dimensions and focus on practicality. The 2017 facelift included revisions to the front and rear fascias, interior trim, and available technology. The 1.4 TSI engine, paired with an automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency and performance.
Market Positioning
In Europe, the Skoda Rapid Spaceback competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. Skoda positioned the Rapid Spaceback as a value-oriented option, offering a generous amount of space for its size and a competitive price point. It appealed to buyers looking for a practical and reliable hatchback for everyday use.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2017 Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.4 TSI is a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, identified by the code EA211 / CZCA, produces 125 horsepower (Hp) and 200 Newton-meters (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm. The turbocharger and direct fuel injection system contribute to both its power output and fuel efficiency. Power per liter is rated at 89.6 Hp/l.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.9 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.5 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 9.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.2 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. The 2017 facelift brought a more modern appearance, with revised headlights, a redesigned grille, and updated bumpers. The interior is characterized by its spaciousness and user-friendly layout. The vehicle offers seating for five passengers and provides a generous amount of headroom and legroom for its class.
Key features of the 2017 Rapid Spaceback include an infotainment system with touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and available navigation. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and other standard safety equipment for the European market. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity, offering flexibility for carrying larger items. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1381 liters (48.77 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. The vehicle also features electric power steering and ventilated front disc brakes, with disc brakes on the rear axle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (125 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp |
| Power per litre | 89.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 / CZCA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1231 kg (2713.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1691 kg (3728.02 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 610 kg (1344.82 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
