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 and its Spaceback variant were significant models for Skoda in the European market, offering a practical and affordable alternative to more established competitors. The Spaceback distinguished itself with a shorter, more coupe-like roofline compared to the standard Rapid, aiming for a more dynamic aesthetic. This article focuses on the 1.6i (110 horsepower) version of the 2018-2019 facelifted Rapid Spaceback, detailing its specifications, performance, and features.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback (Facelift 2017) 1.6i: Overview
The Rapid Spaceback was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and spacious hatchback. Skoda, a Czech automaker now part of the Volkswagen Group, positioned the Rapid Spaceback as a value-oriented option, emphasizing practicality and affordability. The 2017 facelift brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced technology, aiming to modernize the vehicle and increase its appeal. The 1.6i engine option provided a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday driving.
Engine & Performance
The 2018-2019 Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6i is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the EA111 / CWVA. This naturally aspirated engine produces 110 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 155 Nm (114.32 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 98.2 horsepower per tonne, and it delivers 68.8 horsepower per liter of displacement. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 10.3 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) on a combined cycle. The weight-to-torque ratio is 7.2 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable level of responsiveness for typical driving conditions.
Design & Features
The Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a relatively compact footprint. The facelifted model features revised front and rear bumpers, a redesigned grille, and updated headlight and taillight designs. These changes contribute to a more modern and refined appearance. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a practical and functional cabin layout.
Key features of the Rapid Spaceback include a spacious trunk with a minimum capacity of 372 liters (13.14 cu. ft.) and a maximum capacity of 1255 liters (44.32 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety equipment typically includes ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and other driver-assistance systems common for vehicles of this class in the European market. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4312 mm (169.76 in.) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in.) in width, and 1475 mm (58.07 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2603 mm (102.48 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid Spaceback |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 39.9 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 47.9 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 16.9 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3800 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CWVA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1120 kg (2469.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 372 l (13.14 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1255 l (44.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4312 mm (169.76 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2603 mm (102.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front Wheel Drive |
| 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 suspension, longitudinal arms with transverse torsion shafts |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.6i, while not available in the US market, offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, affordable, and reasonably efficient compact hatchback. Its facelifted design and updated features enhanced its appeal, solidifying its position as a competitive option within its segment.
