Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus is built on a platform that has been around since 2010, originally based on the VW Vento and VW Polo. Despite its age, the car has aged gracefully, with a design that still looks appealing, especially in unique colors like Lapiz Blue. The 1.5-litre diesel engine, known for its EA189 configuration, is robust and delivers strong performance, particularly on highways where it feels right at home. The cars build quality is one of its strongest points, with solid body panels and reassuring door thuds. However, it lacks some modern features like cruise control and additional airbags. The suspension is stiff, which can make city driving a bit harsh but provides excellent stability at high speeds. Overall, the Rapid is a great choice for those who prioritize driving pleasure, reliability, and value for money.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus, although an older model, still holds its ground in the Indian market, particularly for those who value driving pleasure and reliability. The 1.5-litre diesel engine, though noisy, is a powerhouse that delivers excellent performance, especially on highways. However, it comes with some drawbacks such as a heavy clutch and the need for proactive maintenance to avoid part failures. Despite these, the cars build quality is robust, with strong body panels and comfortable seating for four. The handling is superb, with precise steering and good feedback, making it a joy to drive on open roads. While it lacks some modern features and has a dated design, the Rapids overall package, including its value for money and the option for an annual maintenance package, makes it a solid choice for those prioritizing performance and utility.

Skoda has discontinued the Skoda Rapid, including the Diesel Active Plus variant, as part of its product lineup adjustments. This move marks the end of an era for a car that was once a strong contender in the Indian market. I think this decision might be a strategic move to focus on newer models, but its a loss for fans of the Rapid.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus was known for its powerful 1.5-litre diesel engine, which produced 109 hp of power and 250 Nm of torque. This engine was mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, making it a favorite among those who valued performance and fuel efficiency. I believe this engine was one of the highlights of the Rapids appeal.

Skoda Auto India had no plans to launch a CNG version of the Rapid, including the Diesel Active Plus, as confirmed by Zac Hollis, the Brand Director. This decision was part of the companys focus on petrol-only models, particularly the TSI engines. I think this was a missed opportunity for Skoda to tap into the growing CNG market.

In terms of pricing, the Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus was positioned competitively in the market, with prices starting from around Rs. 9.01 lakh. This made it an attractive option for buyers looking for a reliable and feature-packed sedan. I think the pricing was spot on, given the features and performance it offered.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus was known for its strong build quality and robust performance, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The cars handling and stability were particularly praised by critics and owners alike. I believe the build quality and performance were among the best in its class.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus, although no longer in production with the BS6 norms, can still be found in the used car market. When it was available, the ex-showroom price for this variant was around 9-10 lakhs, depending on the location. On-road prices would have been approximately 11-12 lakhs, including taxes, registration, and insurance. In the used car market, prices can vary widely based on the cars condition, mileage, and location, but you can expect to pay between 6-8 lakhs for a well-maintained model. This pricing makes the Rapid an attractive option for those looking for a reliable and performance-oriented sedan without breaking the bank.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Active Plus offers commendable fuel efficiency, which is a significant factor for many Indian buyers. In city driving, you can expect a mileage of around 11-12.5 kmpl, while on highways, it can deliver up to 18-20 kmpl, depending on driving conditions. This makes the Rapid a cost-effective choice for both daily commutes and long road trips.