Skoda Rapid Diesel Ambition Automatic

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Ambition Automatic is built on a platform that has been around since 2010, originally as the VW Vento. Despite its age, the car has aged gracefully, with a design that still looks appealing, especially in colors like Lapiz Blue. The 1.5L TDI engine is a highlight, offering 250Nm of torque and good drivability. The automatic gearbox, though sometimes sluggish in D-mode, becomes more responsive in Sports mode. The cars build quality is robust, with strong body panels and reassuring door thuds, but it lacks some modern features and has higher maintenance costs compared to its peers. The interior is comfortable for four people, but the fifth passenger might find it cramped. Overall, its a car that excels in handling and highway driving but requires careful maintenance and has some city driving quirks.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Ambition Automatic is a mixed bag, offering both impressive performance and some notable drawbacks. On the positive side, the 1.5L TDI engine is robust and delivers good power, especially on highways, where it feels at home. The handling is confidence-inspiring, with precise steering and good grip from the tires. However, the ride quality can be harsh in city driving due to the stiff suspension, and the automatic gearbox, while convenient, can be slow to respond in D-mode and sometimes jerky during gear shifts. Additionally, the diesel engine is noisy, and the car lacks some modern features like cruise control and additional airbags. Despite these issues, the build quality is solid, and the car has a certain charm to it, making it a viable option for those who prioritize driving dynamics.

Skoda Auto India has discontinued the Skoda Rapid, including the diesel variants, due to the transition to BS6 emission norms. The Rapid was previously available with a 1.5-litre diesel engine, but this option is no longer available. I think this move is a significant loss for enthusiasts who appreciated the diesel engines performance.

In 2020, Skoda introduced the 1.0-litre TSI Automatic version of the Rapid, which replaced the older diesel and petrol automatic options. This update included a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, but it did not include a diesel engine. I believe this shift towards petrol engines was a strategic move to adapt to changing emission standards.

Before its discontinuation, the Skoda Rapid was offered in several trims, including the Ambition and Style, but none of these trims featured a diesel engine with an automatic transmission in the BS6 era. The last available diesel engine was the 1.5-litre TDI, which was paired with a manual transmission. I think the lack of a diesel-automatic combo was a missed opportunity for Skoda.

Skoda had planned to replace the Rapid with a new mid-size sedan codenamed ANB Sedan, which was expected to launch by the end of 2021. However, there has been no update on whether this new model would include a diesel-automatic variant. I think this new model could fill the gap left by the Rapids discontinuation.

In the past, the Skoda Rapid Ambition 1.5 TDI AT was a top model that offered a turbocharged diesel engine with a 7-speed DSG transmission, providing a mileage of 21.72 kmpl. However, this model was phased out with the introduction of BS6 norms. I believe this was one of the best combinations of performance and efficiency in its segment.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Ambition Automatic, although no longer available in its original form due to the transition to BS6 norms, can still be considered in the used car market or through older stock. When it was available, the ex-showroom price for this variant would typically range between 12 lakh to 15 lakh, depending on the location and any additional features. On-road prices would be higher, including taxes and other costs, often reaching up to 17 lakh to 20 lakh. Its crucial to note that prices can vary significantly based on the condition, mileage, and year of the vehicle if youre looking at used options. As an automotive reviewer, I would advise careful consideration of these factors to ensure you get the best value for your money.

The Skoda Rapid Diesel Ambition Automatic offers decent fuel efficiency, especially when driven sedately. In city driving, you can expect mileage ranging from 11 to 14 kmpl, while on highways, it can go up to 18-20 kmpl. These figures make it a reasonable choice for those concerned about running costs, though actual mileage can vary based on driving conditions and style.