Youthful and dynamic look for the new SKODA RAPID and RAPID SPACEBACK in China 12.03.2020: › New look, redesigned interior and modern vehicle networking via the ŠKODA Banma Intelligent Interconnection System › The two extensively revised ŠKODA compact models are now available

› New look, redesigned interior and modern vehicle networking via the ŠKODA Banma Intelligent Interconnection System


› The two extensively revised ŠKODA compact models are now available


› Production anniversary at SAIC Volkswagen in China: The 22,000,000th vehicle manufactured is a ŠKODA RAPID




A comprehensive update for the ŠKODA RAPID in ŠKODA’s largest single market, China: Thanks to the revised exterior, the Czech car manufacturer’s compact saloon and hatchback version of the RAPID SPACEBACK now have a more youthful dynamic appearance, and the interior has also been upgraded. The RAPID and the RAPID SPACEBACK are powered by an efficient 1.5 MPI petrol drivetrain that produces 82 kW (111 PS) and is mated to a manual five-speed gearbox or six-speed automatic transmission.




The RAPID and RAPID SPACEBACK were developed in close collaboration between the technical development department at SKODA AUTO and the joint venture partner SAIC Volkswagen in Shanghai.



A new infotainment system offers modern vehicle networking via the ŠKODA Banma Intelligent Interconnection System, and there is ample space for passengers and luggage, as you can expect from any ŠKODA. The modernised ŠKODA RAPID has reached its first milestone in China: The 22,000,000th vehicle built by SAIC Volkswagen in China was a car in this series, while the 22,000,001st immediately following it was a RAPID SPACEBACK.



The new ŠKODA RAPID and the ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK hatchback version are now available for purchase on the Chinese market and can also be ordered online. The revised exterior features a redesigned ŠKODA grille, flatter, tapered headlights and new horizontal taillights. In addition to new trims and upholstery fabrics, the interior also benefits from a new infotainment system with vehicle connectivity via Banma, a joint venture between the Alibaba Group and SAIC Volkswagen.




ŠKODA RAPID: lots of room, two interior versions and advanced infotainment


The ŠKODA RAPID saloon is 4,512 millimetres long, 1,706 millimetres wide and 1,469 millimetres tall. It is available in the colours Acapulco Blue, Titanium Beige, Reflex Silver and Polar White. With a wheelbase measuring 2,603 millimetres, it provides passengers with a generous amount of space and comfort, with plenty of legroom at the front and rear.



The boot has a capacity of 466 litres, complemented by up to 14 storage solutions from ŠKODA’s classic Simply Clever range. The redesigned interior exudes a premium feel and is available in two colourways: dazzling black and black/brown.



Among other new details, the RAPID comes with a multifunction steering wheel, a rear-view camera and the ŠKODA Banma Intelligent Interconnection System. This includes a TFT LCD monitor with an 8-inch screen and a user interface featuring the playing-card design that is popular in China, along with voice control.



 Other features include over-the-air updates and advanced Android and Apple smartphone connectivity along with other online services such as the Amap navigation app, the Kuwo music streaming service or the Tingban online radio.




1.5 MPI petrol model already compliant with the strict China VI b emissions standard




The ŠKODA RAPID is powered by a 1.5 MPI petrol engine, which is made entirely of aluminium and delivers 82 kW (111 PS), along with a maximum torque of 145 Nm. Customers have a choice between a manual five-speed gearbox and a six-speed automatic transmission.



With an average fuel consumption of 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres and correspondingly low emissions, the engine already complies with the strict China VI b emissions standard that will only come into effect from July 2023. An electronically controlled, dynamic steering system and intelligent chassis tuning make for powerful performance and controlled handling at all times.





RAPID SPACEBACK: aesthetic, functional and with various design packages



The new ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK is a stylish hatchback model which perfectly combines aesthetics and functionality and can be ordered in the Honey Yellow, Flash Red, and Polar White paint finishes. It features redesigned wide, split tail lights which, in tandem with the reflectors in the rear apron, create the light graphic.



The rear design is rounded off with a chrome strip towards the bottom of the bumper. The RAPID SPACEBACK can be customised with various design packages with black elements, including an extended black panoramic rear window, black roof, black wing mirror housings and tail lights with a smoky black finish.



The RAPID SPACEBACK measures 4,312 millimetres in length and 1,475 millimetres in height. Its width and wheelbase are identical to the saloon version, as is the 1.5 MPI engine delivering 82 kW (111 PS), with a choice of a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The luggage compartment has a 372-litre capacity, which can be increased to as much as 1,255 litres by folding down the rear seats. The ESP stability programme enhances safety on the road, along with tyre pressure monitoring and other safety systems.





A choice of four interior variants


When ordering their RAPID SPACEBACK, customers can choose between four different interior designs. The sportiest variant, for example, has an instrument panel featuring a delicate carbon-style look and a decorative trim in an eye-catching red. The black and grey seat upholstery is enhanced with contrasting red stitching and an embroidered RAPID wordmark.



The ŠKODA Banma Intelligent Interconnection System also ensures state-of-the-art connectivity in the RAPID SPACEBACK, and the rear-view camera boasts a viewing angle of 170 degrees. In addition, the air conditioning system provides outstanding comfort, utilising highly effective three-layer filter inserts to provide particularly clean air.




Hermann Prax, Martin Preusker- photos Skoda