In a quest to move to the topmost position in the C segment of mid-sized sedans in India, Skoda Auto India has priced its Skoda Rapid quite competitively, with a price tag of Rs. 6.8 lacs. With the competitive pricing, the company has signalled threats to other renowned car makers in the segment. Moreover, the Czech car manufacturer boasts of another valuable advantage on its side, namely the petrol as well as diesel versions of this entry-level sedan.
The price-conscious Indian audience, currently, has plenty of options to make a sound decision while buying a new sedan. In its league, Skoda Rapid contends with Hyundai Verna, Honda City and its sibling Volkswagen Vento. Hyundai Verna comes at a price tag of Rs. 6.99 Lacs, whereas Honda City is available at a cost of Rs. 7.49 Lacs. Besides, Volkswagen Vento, priced at Rs. 6.99 Lacs, is another excellent option available in this competitive segment.
Honda City is only available with a petrol engine, so the advantage is with Skoda Rapid in this car. Moreover, it has a lower capacity engine, which will be one of the factors to be considered by the target group. On the other hand, Hyundai Verna is available in petrol as well as diesel engines. However, Verna's 1.4 L engine is comparatively less powerful than the one assembled in Rapid. Though VW Vento boasts of the same engine which was used in Rapid, the latter's drive quality is considered to be better than that of the former's.
From April to September 2011, sales of mid-sized sedans cruised at an incredible rate of 14 per cent. This period accounted for sale of 92,312 cars as compared to 81,220 units sold during the same period in 2010. Furthermore, the share of diesel cars sales rose to 70 per cent, up from 50 per cent in 2010. This increase in demand for diesel cars is also expected to fuel Skoda Rapid sales in this high-potential segment.
In order to make the most of the current pricing equation and surging demand in the segment, Skoda Auto India is hosting several events to catalyse the sales of Rapid. A cross-country test drive of this mid-sized sedan for auto journalists is one such event held by the company to boost its popularity. With such advantages on its side, Skoda Rapid aims to penetrate the lucrative Indian auto market and eventually emerge as the leader of the league.
