The first incarnation of Skoda’s new model range starts off with a replacement for the Rapid Spaceback. Seen here with a body shell of the Seat Ibiza, this new model will arrive in mid-2019.
The new Rapid Spaceback will be based on the MQB A0 architecture that underpins the new VW Polo and Seat Ibiza. The next Rapid, in fact, will be wider and a more edgy looking model with a much lower grille and more aggressive front end treatment. The extended, blacked-out rear windscreen from the current car is likely to live on, along with bolder, protruding C-shaped rear lights.
Inside, the changes are even more apparent with a massive 9.2-inch screen plonked in the middle of the dash and an optional digital instrument cluster. We have seen both these features on the recently unveiled all-new VW Polo.
Interestingly, Skoda’s third and smallest SUV will also arrive around the same time as the Rapid Spaceback. It is based on the same platform as the latter (and the VW T-Roc and Seat Arona) with a riffed off styling and the same chunky taillights and clamshell hood.