Skoda Rapid Rider launched at Rs 6.99 lakh

In a bid to push sales of the Skoda Rapid midsize sedan, the Czech brand has launched a new special-edition model named the Rapid Rider. Priced at Rs 6.99 lakh, the Skoda Rapid Rider costs about Rs 1 lakh less than the base Rapid Active petrol variant.

Only available in Candy White and Carbon Steel exterior paint shades, the limited-run model’s outside has contrasting elements in the form of an all-black grille, black decals on the doors, along with blacked-out B-pillars and trunk lip. The same 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers that are available on the base Rapid Active trim come with the special-edition model.

The interior of the Rapid Rider gets a dual-tone finish – Ebony Sand (black) on the dashboard that contrasts with the Ivory Slate (white) upholstery. The scuff plates on this limited edition model also get a Rapid inscription.

In terms of features, the Rapid Rider seems to be specced identical to the Rapid Active variant. As such, safety kit includes dual front airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors, an anti-glare rear view mirror and a rear defogger. Other creature comforts like remote central locking, a front and rear-centre armrest, tilt and telescopic adjustable power steering, a 2-DIN audio system that is USB AUX and Bluetooth compatible, four speakers, and rear AC vents are expected to be standard.

While the standard Skoda Rapid has 1.6-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options – and both can be had with either a manual (5-speed for petrol, 6-speed for diesel) or a 6-speed automatic gearbox – the Rapid Rider is only on offer with the 1.6-litre petrol engine (which makes 105hp and 153Nm of peak torque) and the 5-speed manual gearbox.

At this price point, the Skoda Rapid Rider undercuts all its petrol-manual midsize sedan rivals such as the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz (Rs 8.19-9.98 lakh), Hyundai Verna (Rs 8.09-11.70 lakh), Honda City (Rs 9.81-12.86 lakh), Toyota Yaris (Rs 9.29-12.85 lakh) and the Volkswagen Vento (Rs 8.64-9.99 lakh). In fact, the Rapid Rider is nearly at par with compact sedans like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire (Rs 5.82-8.22 lakh) and the Honda Amaze (Rs 5.93-7.81 lakh).

All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi

Skoda and Volkswagen prices are ex-showroom, pan-India

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