SKODA RAPID Leisure

After having test driven the Hundai verna,Ford Ecosport,VW Vento,Renault Scala,Renault Duster i felt this is the best chioce and give me all i need at a very competitive price.

Exterior

 I have selected the white color which definately looks classy and fresh even after a few years compared to the metallic colors which dulls over a period if not maintained well. Looks are definately solid with the typical masculine skoda grille. Alloy wheels whith crome logos are stunning.Tail light pattern looks neat in the nights.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

Interiors are sober in a beige/cuppichino combination dual tone.All internal lines are clean and not tacky linke the Ford ecosport or the Hundai verna variants. The drivers armrest is a boon as this really reduces the stress on the shoulders if you have to drive daily 46kms.The bucket seats a re very comfortable.Rear seats are a lil upright but given the boot space of 490 litres it is acceptable.Rear armrest is also a nice detail Skoda has considered for the additional comfort.Enough leg room even after the driver seat is pulled back to the max.Doors have a steel sil to avoid any scratches.Plastic quality is definately great for this price of a Sedan.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

Excellent on engine performance as the turbo charged engine sets in immediately as you step on the peddle imparting a superb engine power of 105PS at 4400 RPM. I have just got a fuel economy of 15.80km  under city conditions and the AC on at all times. Gear shifts is crisp and gear knowb is easy to hold, dont know why people have an issue with the riverse gear being below the first gear its just a matter of being habituated.Steering has a telescopic and a height adjustable provision which helps for taller people.

Ride Quality & Handling

 Ride quality is super smooth for a diesel engine, road handling is excellent and the car feels super safe and sturdy even on rough roads.Road handling is far better than what i had for the test drive, suspensions swallows up the potholes and small rumbles on road with ease with negligible vibrations.

Final Words

 All in all its a solid, safe, reliable no-nonsense and a fuel efficient sedan with an understated touch of luxury on the inside.

Areas of improvement  

 Steering could have volume controls, USB port missing in the 2Din system, navigations system should have been part of the central music panel with touch screen.

 

Good fuel economy,excellent road handling, comfortable drivers handrestngNo USB port with built-in music system, Navigation system is seperate unit .