The new Skoda Rapid has now arrived in Ireland, the car boasting three different trim levels, competitive pricing and five engine variants.
Interestingly, out of the five units Skoda has dropped into the Rapid only one is a diesel. The four petrol alternatives are offered as a base-level 1.2-litre MPI unit, two turbocharged 1.2-litre TSI engines developing 85- or 105hp and a 1.4-litre TSI. The diesel comes in the form of a 1.6-litre TDI developing 105hp and slotting into the Band A road tax bracket.
Skoda cites the reason for sticking with petrol power as to eliminate buyers having to recuperate premium diesel prices by reduced running costs. "How long will it take to achieve these savings?" asks Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing, Skoda Ireland. "Take the Rapid 1.2 TSI, 85hp for example. Like the diesel it achieves Band A emission status and consumes just 0.7 litres of fuel more per 100km driven. Using today's fuel prices it would take 14 years to recoup the savings on fuel alone."
The car is offered in three trim levels: Active, Ambition and Elegance. All versions come with claimed class-leading rear legroom, and a cavernous 550-litre boot. Skoda has also implemented solutions such as a high-visibility vest under the driver's seat and an ice scraper inside the fuel filler flap.
The next crucial question is price. An entry level Active model with the 1.2-litre MPI unit will set you back €15,995 - or €199 per month if bought under Skoda's PCP programme. A top-spec version with the diesel engine will cost just over €24,000.
To celebrate the car's launch, Skoda is hosting an Open Week Event starting this Saturday across Skoda dealers, allowing buyers to test and sample the different trim levels and engines offered on the Rapid.