Do you hanker for a Skoda that is bigger than a Fabia but smaller than an Octavia? Yes? Well then your prayers are answered: meet the Ford Focus-sized Skoda Rapid.
Unfortunately, Skoda has decided not to release many more details, so for now we’re going to rely on our experience, educated guesses and good ol’ conjecture.
The new five-door family hatchback was named at the Beijing Motor Show this week, but was previously known as the Mission L concept unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year.
Although details are somewhat thin on the ground at present, it’s fair to make a few assumptions about the car based on what we know about Skodas already. With that in mind, expect a raft of smooth and efficient diesel engines, clever interior touches and an ultra-green low-CO2 Greenline version.
We could also be in for a ‘hot’ vRS version, which will likely use a diesel engine with a high torque output to shift its mass to 62mph in under 10 seconds. Probably.
The gearbox choices are bound to include a smooth six-speed manual option and an excellent DSG twin-clutch offering which makes the car more efficient and quicker for a couple of hundred quid premium.
You can see a black roof in the picture, and this may or may not hint towards a glass roof. It’s possible this car could spawn convertible and estate models, and although it’s likely just the front wheels will be driven, it’s possible that four-wheel-drive may feature too – possibly in a Scout form. No word on a three-door, pick-up or a caravan conversion though.
There’s a set of nice seats just about visible in the picture, alongside the smart new Skoda family face and what looks for all the tea in China to be a set of four clever door handles.
The Rapid is set to hit UK showrooms at the end of this year, and according to Skoda will be “priced competitively”.
All good then.
