Just a few weeks ago, Skoda launched the new BS6-compliant 2020 Skoda Rapid in India. The new Rapid TSI was priced surprisingly well and it gained too much attention. Skoda was spot-on with the pricing of the Rapid BS6. The base-spec Rapid Rider was priced at just Rs. 7.49 lakhs, Ex-showroom. It became the most affordable TSI car to be sold in India. The Rapid Rider started grabbing the headlines as it was a terrific value for money option in the segment. It became so popular that the demand exceeded the company's expectations and Skoda had to halt the bookings. Now, the Rapid Rider has been discontinued permanently and Skoda has launched an even better-equipped version of the same. The new 2020 Skoda Rapid Rider Plus has been launched in India and it has been priced at Rs. 7.99 lakhs, Ex-showroom.
Talking about the new Rapid Rider Plus, so it is powered by the same BS6-compliant 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that also powers the other variants of the Rapid and also the new Volkswagen Polo & Vento. This motor churns out 110 PS of power and 175 Nm of peak torque. The engine is coupled to a 6-speed manual gearbox and Skoda will introduce a torque converter automatic transmission too very soon. The ARAI-certified fuel-efficiency of this new Rapid 1.0 TSI with the manual gearbox is rated at 18.9 kmpl. This means that the new 2020 Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI is terrifically powerful and extremely fuel-efficient, both at the same time.
Talking about the looks of the new Rapid Rider Plus, so it retains its overall aesthetic appeal but gets some new elements to further enhance the look. For instance, it gets new decorative side foils, glossy black decor on the B-pillar, new trunk lip garnish and more. It also gets blacked-out Skoda's signature butterfly grille and tasteful chrome garnish on the window lines. On the inside, it gets new dual-tone ebony sand interior with premium ivory slate upholstery. It also gets stainless-steel scuff plates with 'Rapid' inscription on them to further add to the captivating aesthetics of the car.
The new Rapid Rider Plus gets plenty of features too. For starters, it gets a new 16.51 cms touchscreen infotainment system which Skoda likes to call the 'Drive'. This infotainment system is equipped with SmartLink technology which will help one to control selected apps like the navigation on the infotainment screen and also ensures seamless connectivity experience with a smartphone to keep one connected on the go. This touchscreen system also gets MirrorLink, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Some other features include USB charging ports, Bluetooth, 12V power sockets, etc.
The new Rapid Rider Plus gets revolutionary Climatronic technology along with dust and pollen filter, adjustable dual rear AC vents, a multifunction steering wheel with adjustments for both rake as well as reach, adjustable headrests, foldable armrests, central locking system with remote control, multi-functional display, etc. The safety features on the car include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, anti-glare interior rearview mirror, rear windscreen defogger with timer, height-adjustable three-point seatbelts at the front, fuel supply cut off in a crash and engine immobilizer with a floating code system.
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Commenting on the introduction of the new SKODA RAPID RIDER PLUS, Mr Zac Hollis, Brand Director, SKODA AUTO India said, SKODA AUTO India recently introduced the new RAPID TSI range of products that now boasts state of the art 1.0 TSI petrol engine offering exceptional power output and excellent fuel economy. An overwhelming response from brand loyalists and auto enthusiasts from across the nation has obligated the Czech marque to push the yardstick further and broaden the RAPID range. The RIDER PLUS offers a compelling combination of the brands emotive design, exquisite interiors and class-leading safety features, at a very competitive price point. It is deemed to be a best seller setting the benchmark for functionality, practicality and spaciousness in its segment.
Lastly, talking about the price, so the new 2020 Skoda Rapid Rider Plus has been launched at an introductory price of Rs. 7.99 lakhs, Ex-showroom, Pan-India. The Rapid Rider Plus is just around 50,000 rupees dearer than the outgoing Rider and for this extra amount, you get so many new features, thus it is definitely a great buying package. It also gets Skoda Shield Plus which ensures 6 years of hassle-free ownership experience and utmost peace of mind. The new Rapid Rider Plus is available in four colour variants: Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver and Toffee Brown. The Skoda Rapid TSI BS6 is now priced between Rs. 7.99 lakhs - Rs. 11.79 lakhs, Ex-showroom, Pan-India. It rivals against other mid-size sedans which include the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Volkswagen Vento and Toyota Yaris.
The new Skoda Rapid is now available in five variants and you can see the variant-wise prices below:
| Variant | Available Colour Options | Prices (Ex-showroom, Delhi) |
| Rider Plus | Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver and Toffee Brown | Rs. 7.99 lakhs |
| Ambition | Brilliant Silver, Toffee Brown, Candy White and Carbon Steel | Rs. 9.99 lakhs |
| Style | Candy White, Brilliant Silver and Carbon Steel | Rs. 11.49 lakhs |
| Onyx | Lapiz Blue and Candy White | Rs. 10.19 lakhs |
| Monte Carlo | Flash Red and Candy White | Rs. 11.79 lakhs |
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This was all about the new 2020 Skoda Rapid Rider Plus. What are your thoughts on the pricing of the new Rapid Rider Plus? Do share with us in the comments below. You can also join our 91Wheels Automobile Enthusiast group (click via mobile to join) curated exclusively for the fans, enthusiasts and the owners.
