Skoda Rapid Rider Edition: Mid-size Sedan for Sub-4-metre money: Analysis Report

Jul 18, 2019
Views : 10015
5 min read

The just launched Skoda Rapid Rider Edition costs a mere Rs 6.99 lakh, putting it temptingly close to sub-compact sedan territory. Is it worth it though?

Skoda recently launched a limited ‘Rider Edition’ for its entry-level model, the Rapid. Priced at Rs 6.99 lakh (ex-showroom pan India), the special edition model falls right in the ballpark of compact sedans. And for those of you looking to buy a sub 4-metre sedan, we guess your mind must be in a confused state of tune now. Fret not, as we tell you five reasons why you should pick the Rapid Rider Edition over the compact sedan you were planning to buy.

Before that, let’s have a look at the basics. Being a limited edition model, the Rapid Rider Edition, based on the base-spec Active variant, gets a host of cosmetic updates. Unfortunately, the diesel engine is not available with this limited edition model. Colour options are also limited to two: Carbon Steel and Candy White.

Note: All the compact sedans used in this comparison are mid-spec variants, taking into consideration the Rider Edition’s price.

First The Pricing:

	Skoda Rapid Rider	Maruti Suzuki Dzire VXI	Honda Amaze S MT i-VTEC	Ford Aspire Trend MT	Hyundai Xcent S
Prices (ex-showroom Delhi)	Rs 6.99 lakh	Rs 6.73 lakh	Rs 6.73 lakh	Rs 6.53 lakh	Rs 6.45 lakh

Considering the fact that the special edition Rapid costs around Rs 54,000 more than the cheapest compact sedan in this comparo, the Xcent, we feel the Rapid Rider Edition is totally bang for the buck. Read on to know why.

Though Base-spec, It Gets Features A Layman Requires:

	Skoda Rapid Rider	Maruti Suzuki Dzire VXI	Honda Amaze S MT	Ford Aspire Trend MT	Hyundai Xcent
Infotainment	2-DIN with USB and Aux IN	2-DIN with USB, CD and Aux IN	2-DIN with USB and Aux IN	2-DIN with USB	2-DIN with Aux IN and USB
Bluetooth Connectivity	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Steering Mounted Controls	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel	Yes	Tilt Only	Tilt Only	Tilt Only	Tilt Only
Power Windows	Yes (All four auto up and down)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Electrically Adjustable ORVM	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Air conditioner	Manual HVAC	Manual HVAC	Manual HVAC	Manual HVAC	Manual HVAC
Multi-info driver’s display	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Remote Locking	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Though the Rapid Rider Edition is based on the base-spec Active variant, it does get features that matches or betters the compact sedans in some respects. Yes it misses out on niceties like steering-mounted controls and multi-info driver’s display, but it also gets features like a 2-DIN infotainment system with USB and aux in, power windows, electrically adjustable ORVMs, manual HVAC and remote locking. You also get features unique to the Rapid like telescopic adjust for the steering and auto up and down function for all four power windows.

Note: Top-spec model image used for representational purpose.

The models in this comparo don’t skimp on safety features as well and come standard with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, seat belt reminders and rear parking sensors as standard. Special credits must be given to the Dzire and Amaze as they come with ISOFIX child seat anchorage points.

Gets A Bigger Heart:

	Skoda Rapid	Maruti Suzuki Dzire	Honda Amaze	Ford Aspire	Hyundai Xcent
Displacement	1598cc	1197cc	1199cc	1194cc	1197cc
Power (PS)	105PS	83PS	90PS	96PS	83PS
Torque (Nm)	153Nm	113Nm	110Nm	120Nm	113Nm
Transmission Option	5-speed MT	5-speed MT	5-speed MT	5-speed MT	5-speed MT
Fuel Efficiency	15.41kmpl	21.4kmpl	19.5kmpl	20.4kmpl	18kmpl

Most Powerful: Skoda Rapid
Torquiest: Skoda Rapid
Most Fuel Efficient: Maruti Suzuki Dzire

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Note: Top-spec model image used for representational purpose.

The Rapid has a clearcut advantage in the engine performance department. Its bigger 1.6-litre engine makes the most power and torque in this comparo, 9PS and 33Nm more than the next most powerful competitor, the Aspire. This could be of great use while tackling the expressway or while doing a quick overtake on narrow two-lane roads. Yes, the largest engine is also the least fuel efficient here and that is something one should consider before signing the cheque. It must also be mentioned that the Dzire’s engine is the only one here that’s BS6-compliant.

Dimensionally Bigger:

	Skoda Rapid	Maruti Suzuki Dzire	Honda Amaze	Ford Aspire	Hyundai Xcent
Length (mm)	4413	3995	3995	3995	3995
Width (mm)	1699	1735	1695	1704	1660
Height (mm)	1466	1515	1501	1525	1520
Wheelbase (mm)	2552	2450	2470	2490	2425
Boot Space (Litres)	460	378	420	359	402

Longest: Skoda Rapid
Widest: Maruti Suzuki Dzire
Tallest: Ford Aspire
Wheelbase: Skoda Rapid
Boot Space: Skoda Rapid

Note: Top-spec model image used for representational purpose.

This needs no second thought. Considering the fact that the Rapid is from a segment above, its larger dimensions result in a car that is a lot more spacious than the sub 4-metre sedans. You won’t see a massive difference sitting up front, but it is has a significant advantage when it comes to rear knee room. Its 460-litre boot ensures that you have the freedom to pack heavy for your weekend trip should you desire. The fact that the loading bay is flat, wide and well shaped makes fitting big suitcases easier. Special mention must be given to the Honda Amaze, which despite being under 4 metres packs in a sizeable 420-litre boot.

Note: Top-spec model image used for representational purpose.

Skoda Shield Plus Equals Peace Of Mind:

Note: Top-spec model image used for representational purpose.

The Rapid Rider Edition also comes with the Skoda Shield Plus package as standard. It promises to offer six years of hassle-free ownership. This includes motor insurance, 24X7 roadside assistance and an extended warranty for peace of mind ownership.

Note: Top-spec model image used for representational purpose.

So to recap, the Rapid Rider Edition is bigger, has a more powerful engine and comes with a decent number of features onboard. It also comes with Skoda’s Shield Plus to give you peace of mind. Yes, it might be the least fuel efficient here, but when you consider its impressive price of Rs 6.99 lakh (ex-showroom pan India) and the fact that it's from a segment above makes the Rider Edition for a compelling buy. If you're planning to pick one up, grab it before this limited edition is gone.

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