Skoda, which was expected to introduce a CNG variant of the Rapid sedan in India, has now cancelled that plan. Zac Hollis, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India recently announced the information while replying to a Twitter user, who asked about the launch plan for the Rapid CNG. In his reply tweet Hollis said, "There are no plans to launch Rapid CNG." In the same thread Hollis also confirmed that currently, the company has no plans to introduce a CNG model in India, he said - "We are continually reviewing our future model plans but at the moment there are no confirmed plans for CNG."
undefinedThere are no plans to launch Rapid CNG.
— Zac Hollis (@Zac_Hollis_) July 27, 2021
Interestingly, it was Hollis himself who had confirmed that the company was testing a CNG version of the Skoda Rapid in March 2021. In fact, prototype models of the car were also spotted undergoing testing in India.
Also Read: Skoda Rapid CNG Spotted Testing In India
undefinedWe are continually reviewing our future model plans but at the moment there are no confirmed plans for CNG.
— Zac Hollis (@Zac_Hollis_) July 27, 2021
While the exact reasons for the company's sudden decision to axe the Rapid CNG are still unknown, it could have something to do with Skoda mulling about ending the production of Rapid in India. Earlier in June, when a user on social media asked Hollis about the company's plan to discontinue the Rapid, he had replied saying - "The end of production date for current Rapid is still in discussion."
undefinedThe end of production date for current Rapid is still in discussion
— Zac Hollis (@Zac_Hollis_) June 21, 2021
Right now, the Skoda Rapid continues to be the company's best-selling car in India and is offered with a 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine as standard. The motor, of course, comes mated to a 6-speed manual and an optional 6-speed automatic transmission. Having said that, save for the new engine, the Rapid itself has been in India for about 10 years now and except for a few updates, the car has largely remained unchanged. With the new Skoda Sedan coming in, the company might discontinue the Rapid after all.
The new Skoda MQB-A0 IN platform based sedan will arrive by the end of 2021
Currently, Skoda Auto India is focusing on the recently launched Kushaq compact SUV, and it is also gearing up for the launch of the new MQB-A0 IN based sedan. Slated to be launched towards the end of 2021, the new car will be positioned above the existing Rapid sedan and deliveries for it will start in January 2022. A test mule of the car was recently spotted in India with several production-ready parts, confirming that it's nearing the production stage.
