Next-gen Skoda Rapid Could Be Named Skoda Slavia, Will Look UBER COOL

Skoda Auto India has filed trademarks for several new names in India, in which the ‘Slavia’ nameplate could be the name for the next-gen Rapid sedan which will be launched in India by the end of 2021. Internally called the ANB, the new-generation Skoda Rapid has been in the works for quite a while. Although the Skoda Rapid is doing pretty well in the popularity stakes, the sedan has been around the market for almost a decade without a major generation update.

The all-new Rapid (Slavia) sedan will be part of the brand’s India 2.0 project. It will be developed on the company’s heavily-localised MQB AO IN platform which will also underpin the Volkswagen Taigun and the Vision IN concept-based mid-sized SUV. The upcoming Skoda Slavia will witness a host of changes to the design, features, interior among others.

Inspired by the new flagship Superb sedan, the next-gen Rapid will get a notchback styling profile. It will have balanced proportions along with sharp edges and prominent design cues. The upcoming sedan will feature a new hexagonal radiator grille along with an arrow-shaped headlamps setup.

The upcoming Skoda Rapid 2021 will be developed on the MQB A0 IN platform that gets a high level of localisation.

Powering the all-new Skoda Slavia will be a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that also powers the Polo, Vento and ongoing Rapid. This mill is capable of developing a max power of 115 BHP and 200 Nm of torque. Transmission choices include a 6-speed MT and a 6-speed torque converter automatic option.

It is apparent that the “Slavia” nameplate shows a better connection with the Czech automaker. The “Slavia” nameplate was actually the name of the company’s very first motorized bicycle developed by Václav Laurin and Václav Klement back in 1899. Recently, the auto company has introduced the 7^th Skoda Student Concept car which was also christened as Skoda Slavia, in a bid to commemorate the brand’s first vehicle.