The Skoda Rapid has been due for a makeover for a while now and Skoda is finally ready to launch an updated avatar of its popular sedan. Changes start from the outside first with a heavily reworked front end. There’s a new grille which has been revised along with a new front bumper and more chiseled headlights which will give it the same family look of the new Octavia and the Superb. On the inside expect the interiors to be revamped with minor changes to the dash and the infotainment system.

Under the hood the Rapid will also get the updated 1.5 litre 110 bhp diesel engine which debuted with the Ameo. The engine gets a larger turbocharger which is locally sourced. Transmission options will be a 5-speed manual and a 7-speed DSG for the diesel. The 1.6 petrol will remain unchanged. This apart, the new Rapid also gets other bits and pieces which are now sourced from different vendors in a bid to keep maintenance lower than what it is right now. Skoda has struggled when it comes to after sales service and this is a step in the right direction from Skoda. These changes might reflect in the Vento as well considering this is an extremely important platform for VW/Skoda.

The much needed update will see the Rapid having a better chance against the likes of the Honda City, the Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and the Volkswagen Vento. With more features added, expect a bump in the prices as well. Stay tuned for the launch coming up soon.

[source;carwale]