Skoda Rapid 1

The initial iteration of the Skoda Rapid, known as the NH body type, rolled off production lines in the Czech Republic between 2012 and 2019. During this time, a nearly identical Volkswagen Polo Sedan was also available. The Rapid lineage extends to the NK model, which has been in production from 2020 onwards.

The car was equipped with engines:

Skoda Rapid 1

Common Features
Engine Power105 HP
Torque153 NM
Acceleration to 100 km/h10.6 seconds
Max speed193 km/h
Combustion in the city8.9 liters
On-road fuel consumption4.9 liters
Mixed expenditure6.4 liters
Fuel tank capacity55 liters
Equipment weight1155 kg
Full weight1660 kg
Load505 kg
Trunk volume530 (1470) liters
Common dimensions
Outer length4483 mm
Width1706 mm
Height1461 mm
Vehicle Axle2602 mm
Front axle offset877 mm
Rear overhang1004 mm
Angle of entry14.0°
Descent12.3°
Front wheel tracks1463 mm
Rear wheel track1500 mm
Height145 mm
Number of doors | seats4 | 5
Opony185/60 R15

Overview and Common Failures

This hatchback was sold in Europe from 2012 to 2017 before the restyling. Initially, it was equipped with three petrol engines, but in 2015, the engine lineup was completely updated.

Versions with front-wheel drive had the following petrol options:

  • 1.2-liter CGPC with 75 horsepower and 112 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission MQ200.
  • 1.4-liter CAXA with 122 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque, coupled with a 7-speed DQ200 robotized gearbox.
  • 1.4-liter CZCA with 125 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque, also paired with a 7-speed DQ200 robotized gearbox.
  • 1.6-liter CFNA with 105 horsepower and 153 Nm of torque, coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission MQ200.
  • 1.6-liter CFNA with 105 horsepower and 153 Nm of torque, also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission AQ160.
  • 1.6-liter CWVB with 90 horsepower and 155 Nm of torque, with a 5-speed manual transmission MQ200.
  • 1.6-liter CWVA with 110 horsepower and 155 Nm of torque, also available with a 5-speed manual transmission MQ200.
  • 1.6-liter CWVA with 110 horsepower and 155 Nm of torque, with a 6-speed automatic transmission AQ160.

After the restyling, this hatchback was sold from 2017 to 2019, with the engine lineup remaining the same as in 2015.

Overview

Body and Interior: While the body boasts excellent resistance to corrosion thanks to galvanization, there are notable weaknesses in the paintwork. Owners have reported issues with fragile glass, short-lived chrome coating, and the need for regular cleaning of drainage holes in the doors to prevent water accumulation. Inside, the ergonomic and spacious interior is appreciated, complemented by a convenient trunk. Despite decent finishing materials, complaints arise regarding dashboard squeaks and inadequate sound insulation. Electrical system hiccups, occasional radio and steering wheel button malfunctions, and weaknesses in the heater fan and climate control flaps are also noted.

Engine: The 1.2-liter 3-cylinder CGPC engine is underpowered and prone to reliability issues such as piston ring sticking and timing chain stretching before reaching 100,000 km. The 1.6-liter CFNA engine is known for piston slap but is relatively durable, with some owners reporting driving over 300,000 km without addressing the noise. The 1.6-liter CWVA engine, introduced in 2015, lacks piston slap but suffers from complaints about oil consumption and seal leaks. The problematic 1.4-liter turbocharged CAXA engine faces issues like excessive oil consumption, short-lived timing chains, and wastegate actuator failures. The replacement 1.4-liter turbocharged CZCA engine, also introduced in 2015, is notably more reliable, though similar issues may still arise, albeit less frequently and at higher mileage.

Transmission: The 5-speed manual MQ200 gearbox operates smoothly but exhibits durability concerns such as synchronizer wear and bearing noise, often surfacing before 100,000 km. The manual transmission also features a delicate differential intolerant of wheel spinning. The 6-speed automatic AQ160 gearbox, sourced from Aisin, is praised for its simplicity and reliability, contingent upon regular oil changes every 60,000 km. The modernized 7-speed DQ200 robotized transmission shows reduced breakdown occurrences, with clutch block wear and mechatronic failures typically appearing around 150,000 km.

Suspension: The suspension design is straightforward and generally reliable, offering a slightly stiff ride. Weaknesses include shock absorber leaks before 100,000 km. The electric-hydraulic power steering rack is trouble-free. While original brake discs and pads are mediocre, superior aftermarket alternatives are available.