Skoda’s rapid success
Skoda was a remarkable success story for an obscure Czech brand but the solid qualities of their first model, the Octavia, soon attracted many buyers ever since its launch in 2002. Its bigger sisters the Superb and Laura consolidated a prestige position. Then the Fabia hatchback was able to generate volumes while the Yeti added a masculine and sporty touch. Skoda however was part of the Volkswagen empire and the Octavia was discontinued to make space for the VW Vento. Although the Indian car market has been stagnant in 2011, Skoda brands notched up a 55 per cent growth rate according to SIAM reports. The re-entry into the small saloon segment was also significant as Skoda are targeting a big chunk of this segment that has notched a 10 per cent growth this year.
Now that the Vento is rolling Skoda is back in the small saloons segment with the new model called Rapid that is made in the VW plant near Pune where it shares the same platform, engine and many components with the Vento. The 1598 cc petrol and diesel engines deliver an identical 105 hp though the torque of the diesel mill is over 60 per cent higher at a punchy 240 nm. This power allows good performance at low engine speeds resulting in superior fuel consumption. A 6-speed automatic also means that the fuel efficiency will be phenomenal. A Skoda spokesman admitted that the recent spate of petrol price hikes had shaken the complete Indian car market causing waiting lists for most diesel engine models and discounts for the petrol ones.
It is however the looks that first attract a buyer. Although its flared wheel arches and prominent door sill crease are also similar to the Vento the front face is distinctively Skoda that looks much more aggressive. It also comes with a rough road package to better handle bad roads. The top end Elegance model sports aluminum wheel rims for big 15 inch tyres. The seven models offer excellent interior design with all the mod cons for safety, comfort and convenience. A small new feature is that the power windows will shut off and not pinch the fingers of any careless passenger. The range has five petrol models including two with automatic transmissions and three diesels at prices a shade lower than the VW Vento starting from `6.75 lakhs at the (Delhi showroom).
The writer is an automotive expert and the former editor of a national magazine
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