Production Spec Skoda Rapid Facelift Spotted Testing

Skoda India's most affordable offering, the Rapid is due for a major update later this year with the Czech automaker making comprehensive changes to the C-segment sedan. While we have spotted the model on numerous occasions, the latest round of spy shots emerged online reveal the production spec Rapid facelift that gets revised styling, while the major mechanical update will be the updated 1.5-litre diesel mill from the Volkswagen Ameo.

The Skoda Rapid facelift gets a styling upgrade in its newest avatar with the elements incorporated from the bigger Octavia in the company's model range. The grille is similar to the one on the Octavia and is also wider than the outgoing Rapid. Furthermore, the headlamps will get LED DRLs as part of the package, while the rear profile gets minimal tweaks, but is likely to feature LED equipped tail lights.

Changes will be minimal to the rear, while the front gets major updates

Expect to see subtle changes to the cabin of the Skoda Rapid facelift that will continue to retain the beige and black colour scheme, but will be updated with a touchscreen MirrorLink infotainment system along with Bluetooth telephony, navigation as well as reverse camera function. The features though will be limited to the top spec variant only. In addition, the model will get ABS and dual airbags as standard on all variants.

The other major change that will make it to the 2016 Skoda Rapid will be the new 1.5-litre TDI diesel engine. This is the same EA189 series motor that powers the current line-up of Volkswagen family models, but received a major update this year when it was launched on the Ameo. So, the updated motor has power hiked to 108bhp, up from the earlier 103bhp; whereas torque remains unchanged at 250Nm. The motor will come paired to the 7-speed DSG and 5-speed manual transmission options, much like the outgoing version. The 1.6-litre petrol will continue to power the model as well.

The 2016 Skoda Rapid facelift is likely to see a release just after Diwali; meanwhile, you could get some good deals on the outgoing model at a dealership near you.

Images Source: CarNewsIndia