2016 Skoda Rapid caught on test; launch in the coming months

The upcoming Skoda Rapid facelift has been caught again, and while the camouflaged test mule doesn’t reveal a lot about itself, expect a refreshed front-end styling on this one. The rear might get a small, hardly noticeable design change.

Expected to be launched in the coming months — likely by the festive season — the car can get a wider option list, from the Vento, which it shares its platform with. Projector headlamps, MirrorLink-enabled infotainment system, rain-sensing wipers, etc. The base variants of both the Rapid and the Vento miss out on ABS, but it’s unsure if Skoda will include that.

The almost apparent changes on the test mule include new grille, lights, and updated bumpers. Also, the vehicle was running on different-looking alloys.

Pricing is likely to remain in the same ballpark as now — current model starts at Rs 7.94 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi. Since this is going to be an update, engine options are unlikely to be reshuffled from the current line-up, which gets a 1.6-liter petrol and a slightly updated 1.5-liter diesel.

Earlier speculated to come as early as August this year, the car is likely to be made available in the festive season. We hope that it gets a front-end like that of the new Fabia:

Source: Team-BHP via IAB