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      Upcoming Skoda Rapid Automatic expected to affect Maruti Suzuki Ciaz launch

      Nikhil Puthran

      Nikhil Puthran

      Skoda Rapid has been in the country for quite a while now. The sedan has been a popular pick in upmarket performance sedan segment in the country. Recent updates indicate that Skoda may bring in a refreshingly new Rapid sedan with a 1.5 Liter diesel engine that shall be mated to optional dual clutch automatic gearbox and 5 speed manual gearbox. First glimpse of the ‘Ciaz’ sedan from Maruti Suzuki was seen at the Delhi Auto Expo 2014 event held in February, 2014. Gaining a footing in this segment would probably sound difficult for a new car in this segment, but the task would not be too mighty considering the fact that the sedan shall be backed by Maruti Suzuki brand name.

      Upcoming Skoda Rapid Automatic expected to affect Maruti Suzuki Ciaz launch
      Upcoming Skoda Rapid Automatic expected to affect Maruti Suzuki Ciaz launch
       

      The exterior of the new Skoda Rapid is not expected to receive major cosmetic upgrades this time around. But, the interiors may get a refreshed appeal and shall be loaded with interesting features. The steering wheel may probably be borrowed from the Superb sibling. With the anticipated launch of this newer version, the older 1.6 Liter variant shall be discontinued. Detailed report on pricing and technical specification is not known for now and shall be revealed during an official announcement made by the company.

      Upcoming Skoda Rapid Automatic expected to affect Maruti Suzuki Ciaz launch
      Upcoming Skoda Rapid Automatic expected to affect Maruti Suzuki Ciaz launch
       

      The Ciaz sedan is slated to be launched sometime by second half of 2014, probably just before the festive season. The Ciaz will enter the Indian automobile market loaded with a 1.4-litre K-Series petrol engine that is also found under the Ertiga's hood, along with a 1.6-litre diesel engine, which will most probably be supplied by Fiat. The engine is expected to be mated to a five-speed manual transmission. It is also said that the company may introduce the Ciaz sedan in an AMT variant. Moreover, sources have stated that the car may feature infotainment system with Bluetooth, AC with climate control, cooled glove box, steering mounted audio controls in the interiors. For safety, the sedan may be loaded with ABS and EBD technology. Though Maruti Suzuki refused to divulge details about it, a company official confirmed that the mid-sized sedan is built on a new platform and will be a completely new car for Suzuki’s global range. The car is expected to be priced under the 10 lakhs segment.

      Recently, Skoda had launched a limited edition of Skoda Rapid Ultima in petrol as well as diesel variant. The petrol version is powered by 1.6-litre MPI that generates about 103 Bhp of peak power at 5250 rpm and 220 Nm of torque at about 3800rpm. The diesel version gets a 1.6-litre TDI engine that generates about 103bhp of power at 4400rpm and a maximum torque of about 250 Nm at 2500 Rpm. The special edition of Skoda Rapid Ultima is offered at a starting price of Rs. 8,33,156 Lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi).