Skoda Rapid 2014-2016 1.5 TDI Style Plus

Rapid 2014-2016 1.5 TDI Style Plus Review

Skoda Rapid 1.5 TDI Style Plus is the new top end variant in this model series. It comes with a delightful range of features for the interior, exterior as well as the comfort and safety facilities. For the exterior, the soothing metallic skin goes along with a variety of color templates, such as carbon steel, toffee brown, candy white, brilliant silver and cappuccino beige. Chrome highlights and other plush elements further improve the overall design stature. Going to the interior, there is a lavish atmosphere provided by the two tone environment and the rich leather package. A GSP telephone system with Bluetooth programming allows occupants to make and receive calls within the car, and for ease of usage, the calling buttons are wired into the steering wheel. The stereo system comes along with a multi function display for a more exquisite experience. Added comfort is ordained by a gear change indicator, a cruise control program, a vanity mirror, a remote control release for the boot lid, and an illuminated luggage compartment. Safety is also enforced with an anti glare rear view mirror, and an engine immobilizer with a floating code system. Driving the car is the same turbocharged 1.5-litre diesel engine, which makes for strong performance and reliable fuel savings as well, pinning a mileage of 21.66kmpl.

Exteriors:

The 15 inch alloy wheels by the side make a highlight of the visual aspect, and this is further improved by the refined body lines and curvatures. The door handles and outside mirrors come in the body color, making for unity in the outer look. The overall shape of the vehicle includes a more hefty rear portion, which makes for a more balanced and harmonious design. At the rear, brake light cluster come with all necessary lighting units, giving an added element of safety when driving. The emblem of the company has been posted by the center of the tailgate, renewing the car's trendy persona. At the front, the large radiator grille gives a more masculine position, and this is further enhanced by the chrome treatment around the grille. The headlamps have a slender design, and they come along with halogen projector lights for improved visibility when driving. The bonnet has been glazed with swiping lines, giving a more vitalized look for the front facade.

Interiors:

Coming to the insides, the steering wheel has a sporty design, and is wrapped with leather for a more expensive feel. The front panel has been decorated in a clever manner, with the air conditioning ducts, the instrument panel and the storage areas all positioned for an alluring image. The seats are comfortably positioned, and the presence of armrests by the front and headrests on both rows further adds to the ride experience. Plush leather upholstery has been dressed upon the seats, giving a far more well treated aura for the benefit of the occupants. Beside just looks, the cabin has an array of utility and comfort elements, which invigorate the experience. Some of those includes an interior card holder, a cooled glove box compartment, front and rear cup holders, a storage compartment by the front centre console with armrest, and bottle holders in the front doors.

Engine and Performance:

For this variant, there is a 1.5-litre TDI engine, which comes along with a liquid cooling system for efficient working. In addition to this, the presence of a turbocharger further augments performance. With a displacement capacity of 1498cc, the engine has 4 cylinders and 16 valves wired together through the double overhead camshaft arrangement. For an efficient fuel transfer system, the car has a high pressure direct fuel injection as well. Coming to the specifications, the car gives a power of 104bhp at 4400rpm, together with a torque of 250Nm 1500rpm to 2500rpm. The engine's power is directed to the front wheels through an efficient 5 speed manual transmission.

Braking and Handling:

Coming to the handling and stability systems of the car, it comes with an electro mechanical power steering system, which ensures an easier and safer drive. Next, the suspension consists of a McPherson strut on the front axle and a compound link crank axle for the rear. This is further strengthened with the presence of lower triangular links and a torsion stabilizer. For the braking requirements, there is a hydraulic dual diagonal circuit braking system that is further enhanced by a vacuum assisted technology. At the front, there are disc brakes that come along with inner cooling and single/piston floating caliper. Meanwhile, normal drum brakes are present by the rear.

Comfort Features:

A climatronic automatic air conditioning system preserves the drive ambiance of the vehicle, and it is further supported by the adjustable dual rear vents. Next, the power windows come with a one touch operation technique, and this relieves hassle for the passengers. Entertainment is granted through a 2 DIN Skoda audio player, and this comes along with a USB and Aux-In ports for the utility of connecting external devices. Also present is an SD/MMC data card reader. Bluetooth facility allows for musical streaming within the car, and for making and receiving calls. In addition to all of this, the cabin is also provided with a 12V power socket, reading lamps and a gear change indicator.

Safety Features:

Firstly, the anti lock braking system prevents skidding or loss of control, and this is further strengthened by the electronic brake-force distribution and the brake assist facilities. In addition to this, airbags are present for both the front occupants, shielding them from critical injuries in case of mishaps. Child proof rear door locking and window locking takes the safety standards one step further. In addition to this, there is an acoustic warning for overrun speed, a feature for cutting of fuel supply in case of a crash, and a parktronic rear park distance control.

Pros:

1. Fuel economy is reasonably good.

2. Load of comfort and utility functions within.

Cons:

1. The performance could be upgraded.

2. Interior area may deter buyers.