The mid-size sedan segment in India is struggling as buyers are increasingly shifting to the flock of compact SUVs that operate in the same price band. We are now hearing reports that Skoda is prepping the Rapid to take on the added competition with new, special edition avatars and the Monte Carlo edition seems to be the first in line for an Indian debut.
The international edition of the Rapid Monte Carlo has been on sale in multiple markets since 2015. Skoda India will try to incorporate certain stand-out design cues from the global-spec cars for its iteration of the special edition Rapid.
According to a report by Autocar India, the car is expected to carry the sporty red and black theme. The red coloured body will be tastefully contrasted by a gloss black finish for the grille, side rear-view mirrors and roof. The car will get subtle body skirts all around and will also feature larger, 16-inch blackened alloys. A black deck-lid spoiler is also likely to find its way to the model.
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Inside, the car will get aluminium scuff plates, metal finished pedals and faux carbon panels around the cabin. The interiors might switch to an all-black theme with contrast stitching on the leather seats, gear shifter and the steering wheel. A flat-bottom steering, mobile holder and new floor mats could be other additions.
The Rapid will remain unaltered mechanically and will continue with the 1.5 Litre TDI and 1.6 Litre MPI units, both producing close to 110 BHP of peak power. Transmission options will include a common five speed manual or the automatic gearboxes including a 6-speed torque converter with the petrol variants and a 7-speed DSG with the diesel trims.
Skoda might be eyeing to launch the Monte Carlo edition in time for the festive season. Expect prices to be about INR 30-40,000 premium as compared to the standard Rapid.