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. Positioned as a versatile vehicle, it aimed to provide ample space and functionality within a relatively compact footprint. The 2018-2019 model year 1.6i (110 HP) Automatic variant, detailed here, exemplifies Skoda’s focus on efficient and accessible motoring.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback (Facelift 2017) 1.6i Automatic
The Rapid Spaceback, a derivative of the Rapid liftback, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more stylish and versatile hatchback. The “Spaceback” designation highlights the vehicle’s emphasis on interior space and practicality. The 2017 facelift brought cosmetic updates, including revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and enhanced technology features. This iteration of the Rapid Spaceback aimed to strengthen Skoda’s position in the competitive European hatchback market, offering a compelling blend of value, space, and efficiency.
Engine & Performance
The 1.6i variant of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, identified by the EA111 / CWVA engine code, produces 110 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 155 Nm (114.32 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine’s power output translates to a power-to-liter ratio of 68.8 hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
Performance figures indicate a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.5 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 11.9 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.5 kg/Hp, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.5 kg/Nm. Fuel economy is rated at 6 liters per 100 kilometers (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l), reflecting a focus on reasonable efficiency for a vehicle in this class.
Design & Features
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its body style prioritizes practicality and interior space. The 2017 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior design, including a revised front grille, headlights, and bumper. These updates aimed to give the Spaceback a more modern and appealing aesthetic.
Inside, the Rapid Spaceback offers a functional and well-equipped cabin. Key features include a spacious interior, a relatively large trunk capacity (372 liters minimum, expanding to 1255 liters with the rear seats folded down), and a range of comfort and convenience features. Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). 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). The kerb weight is 1155 kg (2546.34 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 39.2 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 47.1 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 16.7 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1155 kg (2546.34 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 | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 Automatic, while not available in the US market, represented a practical and well-rounded option for European buyers seeking a compact hatchback. Its combination of reasonable performance, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness made it a competitive offering in its segment. The 2017 facelift further enhanced its appeal, solidifying its position as a valuable member of Skoda’s lineup.
