Skoda Rapid Rider Variant Discontinued In India

• Skoda Rapid Rider variant was aggressively priced at just Rs 7.49 lakh.
• Came with all the essential features like a 2-DIN audio system and climate control.
• The Rapid Rider was powered by a 110PS 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine.
• It was offered only with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
• Rapid’s next-gen successor will be unveiled by the end of 2021.

Skoda India has discontinued the entry-level Rider variant of the Rapid. It was priced attractively at Rs 7.49 lakh (ex-showroom) and gave sub-4 metre sedans a serious run for their money. The earlier second-from-base Rider Plus variant, priced at Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom), will now be the Rapid’s new base variant. Here’s a look at the revised variant lineup:

Even as the entry level variant for the Rapid, the Rider was equipped with enough features to meet all your basic needs. Highlights included a 2-DIN audio system with USB and Aux IN, climate control, power windows, remote locking, tilt- and reach-adjustable steering wheel and electronic adjustable ORVMs. Safety was covered by dual airbags, ABS, and rear parking sensors. 

Thanks to the attractive price tag and decent feature list, the Rapid Rider was an instant hit, so much so that it forced Skoda to halt bookings to meet pending orders. Skoda listened to customer feedback and quickly introduced the Rapid Rider Plus, which features a touchscreen infotainment system and body decals for an additional Rs 50,000. This variant has also been receiving positive feedback from customers. 

The Rapid Rider, in our books, was the perfect option for a project car. It costs a full Rs 4.3 lakh less than the top-spec Monte Carlo manual variant -- and one can use the extra cash to slap on some aftermarket alloy wheels, performance parts or tune up the 110PS 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine. It came with a 6-speed manual gearbox while the option of a 6-speed torque converter automatic is offered from the Rider Plus variant onwards. 

The Rapid Rider Plus is now the Rapid’s base variant in the country. At Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom), this variant also scores high on the value-for-money factor. Meanwhile, Skoda will be taking the wraps off the Rapid’s successor by the end of 2021. It will be a notchback unlike the current car, which is a three-box saloon.