Cartrade Comparison Test
The mid-sized sedan segment is one of the most competitive segments in the country, thanks to some really capable products. Skoda, the Czech automaker, launched the Rapid facelift in the country to take on the likes of Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Verna, Honda City and Maruti Ciaz. Ford India had introduced the new age Fiesta sedan last year, which is equipped with Ford AppLinkTM- a hands-free in-car technology to keep driver safe while on the road. Here is a spec-based comparison between the Fiesta and the Rapid.
Styling - Exterior and Interior
The 2014 Ford Fiesta features a new front fascia with all-new Aston Martin-like grille, revised bumper, new headlamps and fog lamps. The side profile looks identical to the previous model, though the wheel arches are all-new that look aggressive. At the rear, the updated sedan has new tail lamps, a new deck lid and bumper with chrome inserts. Inside the cabin, the Fiesta has black treatment for centre console, new upholstery for seats and an advanced infotainment system. The vehicle is equipped with various features like automatic climate control, cruise control, guide me home lamps, auto headlamps and few others.
The new Rapid sedan looks identical to the previous model; however, the sedan gets subtle changes. Instead of 14-inch wheels, the sedan features newly styled 15-inch wheels. The black edition of the sedan gets blackened smoked out headlamps, fog lamps, black colored ORVMs and black alloy wheels. On the inside, the Rapid gets brown and beige colour scheme. The sedan features cruise control, magnetic card holder to hold toll tickets, parking sensors, etc. To offer premium touch, the car has chrome inserts for interior door handles, centre console, gearshift selector, AC vents and steering wheel.
Engine Specification
The Skoda Rapid is available in two engine options - 1.5 litre TDI diesel and 1.6-litre petrol. While the oil burner is good for 105PS of power and 150Nm of torque, the petrol motor produces 105bhp and 153Nm of torque. Both petrol and diesel versions get automatic versions.
The Ford Fiesta is powered by a 1.5-litre Duratorq diesel engine that churns out 90bhp of power and 204Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a five speed manual transmission gearbox.
Verdict
Both the Rapid and the Fiesta are capable products, but the Skoda's mid-sized sedan scores more on power front. Moreover, the Rapid sedan is available in both manual and automatic version while the Fiesta is available in manual version only.
