Skoda Rapid Spaceback SE 1.6 TDI 90PS 5-speed manual
What is it?
The Rapid Spaceback has had plenty of people scratching their heads and asking why? But perhaps the question should be why not?
The new ‘notchback’ offers an interesting alternative to affordable but unremarkable hatchbacks like a Hyundai i30 or Kia C’eed.
Clearly it’s spacious for people in the rear and it has a large, flexible load area with a reversible floor (nice carpet one side, rubber for dogs and wellies on the other).
Exterior designer Marko Jevtic says his favourite part of the car is the long window area. He says “It gives it shooting-brake proportions, it’s nicely balanced, and unique in this sector.”
Interior designer Marwan Khiat likes the feeling of light and space, especially if buyers opt for the amazing full-length sunroof (an extra £700).
Tiny but thoughtful details that suit Skoda’s Simply Clever tagline include a handy ice scraper hidden in the fuel cap, a clip for parking tickets at the base of the windscreen and a slot to hold the parcel shelf upright when it has been taken out.
“We like to give people What You See is What You Get plus a little bit more,” says Jevtic.
Business customers account for around half Skoda’s customers in the UK, and the business favourite of this range will be the 1.6 TDI 90PS on test here, accounting for 28-29% of sales. The entry-level 1.2 TSi 86PS petrol actually runs a close second at 24%.
The favourite trim level is likely to be the SE. The frugal GreenLine package using this engine will deliver a tempting 99g/km CO2, but it’s offered with very restricted spec, and won’t be available with sat nav or Bluetooth connectivity though this may change according to Skoda UK.