The Skoda Rapid will soon receive a new addition to its line-up in the form of the Matte edition. The Czech carmaker previously showcased the Rapid Matte Concept at the 2020 Auto Expo, on which the new trim will be based. Our dealer sources tell us that the Rapid Matte edition will be launched later in October.  The model was recently showcased at a private event.

• Rapid Matte edition will have cosmetic changes inside and out
• Uses a 110hp, 1.0-litre TSI engine

Skoda Rapid Matte edition: what is it?

In essence, the Rapid Matte edition will most likely be a new trim that comes with a number of cosmetic changes, in a similar vein to what Tata’s Dark edition models and the Kia Seltos X-Line get. The production-spec Rapid matte edition is expected to come with a matte grey exterior paint finish, which will be accompanied by gloss black accents on the front bumper, rear-view mirror caps, boot-lip spoiler and 16-inch alloy wheels. However, we are told that the red accents seen on the Rapid Matte Concept won’t make it to the final car.

Inside, the cabin is expected to have an all-black theme, with a few Alcantara inserts on the seats and door cards, to add to the sedan’s sporty appeal. Besides this, the cabin layout and equipment level will be the same as the standard Rapid.   

Skoda Rapid Matte edition: powertrain

Powering the new Skoda Rapid Matte edition will be the same 1.0-litre TSI engine seen across the mid-size sedan’s entire range. Here too, it puts out a healthy 110hp and 172Nm. Gearbox options will likely include both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic unit, just like the current top-spec Rapid.

Skoda Rapid Matte edition: competition check

In terms of competitors, the Skoda Rapid Matte edition will continue to rival Honda City, Hyundai Verna, and Maruti Suzuki Ciaz. Skoda has also recently confirmed that it will reveal a new sedan for our market later this year, though that will be positioned slightly higher than the Rapid.