(Indian) Skoda Rapid facelift announced in global presentation, launch this year

Expected to get an updated 1.5L TDI engine.

VW, in a presentation for its investors, has confirmed a list of new cars it, and its group companies, will launch through the course of this year. One of the cars confirmed for a launch this year is the Skoda Rapid facelift for the Indian market.

While the teaser image appears unclear, spyshots have shown the Rapid facelift testing on Indian roads. The Rapid facelift is expected to ditch its old Fabia-inspired front fascia, and instead opt for a redesigned grille and headlight clusters borrowing design cues from the Euro-spec Rapid. This will make the Rapid in-line with new models like the Octavia and 2016 Superb.

Changes inside are expected to be minimal. Aside from new seat covers, a new touchscreen MirrorLink system with Android support and a reverse camera, an automatic day/night rear view mirror and automatic wipers, the 2016 Rapid will see no further changes.

Also read: 2017 Skoda Yeti - Rendering

Under the hood, the Rapid facelift is expected to get an updated 1.5-liter TDI diesel engine. According to reports, VW India will be using a larger turbocharger in this engine which will increase power output by 5 bhp to 108 bhp. Aside from the increased power, the 2016 Skoda Rapid will also deliver increased fuel efficiency.