2020 Skoda Rapid design sketch revealed

Looks like the Skoda Rapid is all set to get a fresh lease of life. Under the INDIA 2.0 Project, it might make its debut here as well.

Skoda Russia has recently revealed the design sketch of the new & upcoming Rapid, which will be the second generation of the sedan. This goes to show that the Rapid nameplate won't be saying goodbye anytime soon. In December 2018, Skoda introduced the all-new Scala hatchback, which essentially serves as a more upmarket replacement for the Rapid in several markets around the world, with a few exceptions though. In markets like Russia & India, it seems like Skoda intends to continue with the sale of the Rapid. While not much has been revealed about the 2020 Rapid as yet, what we do know is that it'll make its global debut towards the end of this year.

As per the design sketch, the 2020 Skoda Rapid borrows its styling from the Scala hatchback, with the arrow-shaped headlamps & the new hexagonal grille. The sculpted bonnet & front bumper profile also bear the signature Skoda design cues. As for its underpinnings, the 2020 Rapid is expected to make a crucial switch to the brand's new MQB platform, ditching the ageing PQ architecture. However, this is yet to be confirmed.

At present, the Skoda Rapid continues to be on sale in India with the 1.6-litre petrol & 1.5-litre TDI diesel engines. But as both powertrains are due for their BS-VI upgrade, Skoda India will have to discontinue the Rapid before 1st April 2020. This might just be the cue for the updated Rapid's arrival. Also, the 2020 Rapid is likely to be one of the five new models Skoda India plans on launching in the country by 2021 (under the INDIA 2.0 Project). Apart from the Rapid, these models include two new SUVs and revised versions of the Octavia & Superb.

To keep the buyer interest alive, Skoda India has been playing around with the Rapid by introducing several, visually-enhanced Limited Edition versions of the sedan since last year. This includes the arrival of the Rapid Edition 2018, followed by the launch of the Onyx Edition, Monte Carlo Edition & the recent Rapid Rider.