This is the new Skoda Rapid Spaceback that’s basically an estate version of the Rapid hatchback that was launched in the UK last year. Skoda wants its miniature Audi A3 Sportback-lookalike to appeal to young buyers and trendy youthful families when the car goes on sale this October, and it shouldn’t cost much more than the regular Rapid, which starts at £12,905.
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Skoda Rapid Spaceback – more space you-know-where, then?
Believe it or not, the Rapid Spaceback actually has a smaller boot than the regular hatchback version. At 415 litres with the rear seats up and 1380 with the rear bench folded, the Spaceback offers 135 and 110 litres less respectively.
How can the estate model possibly be smaller inside than the hatchback?
Because the Rapid Spaceback is 180mm shorter overall than the regular Rapid, though it’s claimed to be just as roomy inside for passengers.
Which engines are under the bonnet?
A choice of four petrol and two diesel four-cylinder engines, offering between 74bhp and 121bhp. There’s a 1.6-litre TDI mill, which, in eco-minded GreenLine guise, is good for a claimed 74.3mpg and 99g/km of CO2, as well as the smoother 1.2-litre petrol four-cylinder already found in the regular model. There are two transmissions offered: a five-speed manual and a seven-speed DSG.
Still no hot vRS model?
Skoda refuses to be pinned down on the possibility of a Rapid vRS model, potentially using the 178bhp twin-charged engine and DSG transmission from the VW Polo GTI and Skoda Fabia vRS. The Czech company teased us with a rapid Rapid at the Worthersee tuning show earlier in 2012, with the Rapid Sport concept.
Anything else?
Glassiness is the key design feature here – choose the optional ‘prolong’ tailgate and the glass stretches down past the rear window for a more modern look. Also on the options list is a full-length glass roof.
You’ll be able to check out the Skoda Rapid Spaceback in the metal at the Frankfurt motor show in September 2013.
