Five things to expect from the Skoda Rapid facelift

The Skoda Rapid facelift is expected to launch in India sometime soon. Here are five things we can expect from the refreshed sedan when it goes on sale in the Indian market. 

New design

This is the first major facelift for Skoda’s entry-level sedan ever since it was first launched in 2011. The spy-shots suggest that the carmaker has given the sedan a new grille. This is inspired from the modern Skoda Octavia and the most recent Kodiaq. Then there will be a new pair of headlamps, a re-profiled front bumper and some minor changes to the taillights. 

Features

While the interior layout and design will remain the same as the current sedan, the cabin will feature the brand's new touchscreen entertainment system with MirrorLink system. This also supports Bluetooth, navigation and reverse camera display.

Engine

With the introduction of the updated 1.5-litre TDI mill in the VW Ameo, we can expect the same mill to be seen under the Rapid's hood too. The power output of this engine has increased from 105PS to 110PS (103bhp to 108bhp), though the torque remains unchanged at 250Nm.

Transmission

There won't be any changes on the transmission front. So we can expect the seven-speed DSG automatic and the five-speed manual to continue to do the duties.

New colours

The upcoming Skoda Rapid is also likely to be offered in new colours in its new avatar. At present the colour palette includes cappuccino beige, candy white, brilliant silver, toffee brown and carbon steel.