Test drive Skoda Rapid Spaceback: one Rapid is not enough

In the Spaceback version, the Czech brand Skoda takes a slightly different take on the pragmatic Rapid. First impressions.

The first question that arises when meeting the Rapid Spaceback is what kind of car it really is and what category it is best to put it into. Is it a modern interpretation of classic compact wagons, or rather a stylish version of the ostentatiously pragmatic Rapid? From the words of non-Skoda representatives, it is clear that the truth is most likely somewhere in the middle between the two statements. According to brand chief designer Josef Kaban, "there is a niche between the Fabia station wagon and the Octavia that would be better filled with something different and unconventional than another station wagon." On the other hand, Skoda is definitely not a fan of such modern “lifestyle” car marketing praises, but prefers to create functional, high-quality and reasonable products for pragmatic people who care more about high intrinsic value. in shiny packaging.

Another look at Rapid

In real life, the result of the Czech idea to combine the functionality of the Rapid with the search for a more individual character looks even better than one would expect from the official photos of the model. The overall length of the body was shortened by as much as 18 centimeters, but the wheelbase of 2,60 meters remained unchanged. From the front emblem to the middle pillars, the Spaceback is absolutely identical to the previously known Rapid. However, the rear layout is completely new and gives the car a completely different look. In the shape of the rear, you can see borrowings from both sports station wagons and classic hatchback models. One thing is for sure, the Spaceback is the more attractive face of the Rapid, at least in terms of design.

As a rule, for Skoda, the form is not at the expense of functionality. The passenger seat is completely identical to the usual version of the model, that is, quite a lot for a representative of this class. The ease with which all the functions in the car are serviced is exemplary, and combined with a comfortable seating position and many small but practical solutions, daily contact with the car is much more pleasant than with some heavily twisted ones. and more expensive, but definitely more functionally inconvenient models on the market. The impression of quality is improved over the "regular" Rapid - materials are more pleasing to the eye and touch, details such as the sound system are more harmoniously integrated into the overall interior design, and the instrument panel and steering wheel receive new decorative elements.

By shortening the rear overhang, the nominal luggage compartment volume has decreased from a gigantic 550 to a still quite decent 415 liters, but when the rear seats are folded down, it can reach an impressive 1380 liters.

More sophistication

Rapid Spaceback is the first representative of the brand (and the VW group as a whole) to receive a new steering system with electromechanical power steering, the first impressions of which are excellent - the car is controlled easily and at the same time extremely accurately. Behavior on the road is safe and predictable, and if there are more sporting ambitions on the part of the driver, it can even be called dynamic. Comfort is significantly better than in previous versions of the Rapid - the Spaceback has received more refined suspension adjustment, which will be applied to other members of the model family in the future.

Text: Bozhan Boshnakov

Skoda Rapid Spaceback

The Rapid Spaceback is another typical representative of the very successful success formula that Skoda has been using in recent years. While it doesn't look like a typical station wagon, the model is no less practical and functional than the already familiar standard version of the Rapid, although it's more refined than it in many ways and definitely offers a more attractive look.