Skoda sketches Rapid RS
Full family of Skoda Rapid models expected as first sketches of SPORT concept emergeThe first sketches of Skoda’s Rapid SPORT concept have emerged, indicating that the Czech brand’s all-new small car will expand into a full range of models.
A full range of Rapid SPORT renderings has leaked onto the internet following the release of the first official sketch overnight in Europe, where the Rapid RS-previewing concept will make its debut at the 32nd GTI Meeting at Wörthersee today.
In a clear indication that Skoda will produce a range-topping RS-badged version of the small Rapid sedan, which will be followed by a five-door Spaceback hatch model next year, the Rapid SPORT features a host of performance upgrades over the standard Mazda3-rivalling sedan that’s due on sale here mid-year.
Differentiated by a sharp new bodykit featuring carbon-look front and rear spoilers and side skirts, the Rapid SPORT also wears wheelarch-filling 19-inch alloy wheels, a pair of huge outboard exhaust outlets and two-tone Steel Gray and Corrida Red paintwork.
While no interior images have surfaced, Skoda says the concept will incorporate Recaro sport seats, illuminated sill plates and a 'sport-type' steering wheel -- presumably with a now-obligatory flat bottom.
“The GTI Meeting is a Mecca for all tuning and motorsports fans,” said SKODA Chairman Winfried Vahland. “With the SKODA Rapid SPORT, we will put a decidedly dynamic and emotive version of our new compact sedan Rapid on display for the first time.”
No technical details have been revealed, but it’s possible the showroom-ready Rapid RS (known as the vRS in Europe) will be powered by the 132kW/250Nm 1.4-litre supercharged and turbocharged engine from Volkswagen’s mechanically similar Polo GTI.
When it’s launched here in the coming months, Skoda’s standard Rapid sedan is expected to be priced from under $20,000 and available with three engines, including 90kW 1.4-litre and 77kW 1.2-litre turbo-petrol fours and a 77kW 1.6-litre turbo-diesel.
Slotting in between the Fabia and Octavia at 4480mm long and 1700mm wide, Skoda’s seventh model line went on sale in Europe late last year and achieves a maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
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