The Skoda Rapid is a new family car sitting between the Fabia and Octavia in the brand’s line-up. It is much closer to the larger Octavia in size and space and although the Rapid looks like a saloon, it’s actually a hatchback, with the emphasis on space, quality and on its competitive prices.

The space at the back will really impress family-car buyers

Whichever engine is under the bonnet, the Rapid feels reasonably sure-footed. The light steering and good visibility to the side and front make it easy to manoeuvre and it sits securely on the road.

The cabin is smart and classy and offers ample space. The controls are clear and easy to use and there is good amount of stowage up front.

The driving position is well-balanced, achieved by combining a reach- and rake-adjustable steering wheel with generous head and leg room.

The space in the back is something that will really impress family-car buyers; not only is access to the rear seats excellent, there’s as much leg room as there is in the largest small family cars. To cap it all, the boot is huge, and is accessed through a high-opening, wide tailgate.

There are three trims to choose from: Active, Ambition and Elegance. All models get AC, remote central locking, curtain airbags, daytime running lights and electric front window.

The range-topping Elegance models gain 16-inch alloys, front fog lamps, cruise control, steering controls, Bluetooth and rear electric windows.

There are four petrol engines to choose from: a 1.2 with 74bhp, a turbocharged 1.2 with 85bhp or 104bhp, plus a 120bhp turbocharged 1.4.

The only diesel engine at launch is a 104bhp 1.6 TDI. A Greenline diesel version will follow.

Prices for the Active start from €15,990 for the petrol engine and €18,990 for the diesel version. The Rapid is available for viewing and test drives in the Skoda showroom in Testaferrata Street, Ta’ Xbiex.

Sign up to our free newsletters

Get the best updates straight to your inbox:
Please select at least one mailing list.

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By subscribing, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing.