The Skoda Rapid C-segment sedan is the automaker's entry-level model in India, and the offering has hit a new production milestone with over one lakh units churned out. Skoda Auto India rolled out the 100,000th Rapid at its Chakan facility, near Pune, with the special version being the top-of-the-line Monte Carlo edition. The Skoda Rapid was introduced in India way back in 2011 as the sedan derivative of the Fabia, and later turned into the Czech car maker's most affordable offering in India, once the latter was discontinued.
Also Read: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo Edition Launched In India
The Rapid nameplate dates back to 1935 in Skoda's history and was later used in 1982 for the Rapid Coupe. The name made a comeback in 2011 for a model exclusively for the Indian market, and was later sold in Europe as well. Over the years, the model received consistent updates bringing in new features, while the most comprehensive upgrade arrived in 2016 with a design revision in-line with the brand's global design language for new models.
The Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo is the top-of-the-line version in the model's line-up
On the powertrain front, the Skoda Rapid has been available with the 1.6-litre petrol along with the 1.5-litre diesel also on offer. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual as well as a 6-speed torque convertor automatic or a 7-speed DSG. The sedan competes against a number of offerings including the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Honda City, Volkswagen Vento, Hyundai Verna and the likes. Prices for the Rapid start at Rs. 7.99 lakh going up to Rs. 13.99 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom Delhi).
In addition, Skoda India is also working on the next generation Rapid that is part of the company's Volkswagen India 2.0 product plan. The new model will be based on the automaker's MQB A0 platform developed for India and will see an all-new model with more local content replacing the current model. The next generation Volkswagen Vento will also share the underpinnings.
