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3.6/5· Skoda

Skoda Rapid Spaceback (2013 - 2019)

2013 – 2019· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.2/10

Very good

Get ready for a blast from the past with the Skoda Rapid Spaceback! This retro icon is back, reimagined as an electric vehicle, perfect for those budget-conscious commuters seeking practicality without compromising on style.

At a glance

93

hp · Power

569

miles · Range / tank

10.7s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £243/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Spacious and practical interior
  • Great fuel efficiency
  • Comfortable and stable at speed

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited engine options
  • Lacking some advanced tech features
  • Interior materials could feel utilitarian

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£243/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,400 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Ratings breakdown

performance35/10
practicality40/10
running costs32/10
behind the wheel37/10
comfort34/10
equipment36/10
green credentials28/10
handling38/10
reliability40/10
safety35/10

Theo's AI summary

The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is a solid contender in the hatchback market, particularly valued for its spacious interior, versatility, and affordability. With the promise of an electric model on the horizon, this vehicle maintains its appeal while adapting to the demands of modern drivers. Given its impressive driving experience, coupled with low running costs, it receives a strong recommendation for those seeking a reliable family car or a stylish urban vehicle.

Best match for

  • Practical families
  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£125/month

Insurance

£79/month

Road Tax

£16/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£280/month

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The Skoda Rapid Spaceback (2013 - 2019) offers a dynamic yet composed driving character, demonstrating a balance of agility and stability. Its responsive steering system allows for confident manoeuvring in urban environments, while its engine variants deliver a smooth power deliv

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is praised for its spacious interior and generous boot, making it a practical family car. Owners appreciate the value for money, reliable performance, and decent fuel economy. However, the interior quality is seen as somewhat utilitarian, and the driving experience lacks excitement compared to rivals.

Read full review
Autocar

Expert reviewers commend the Rapid Spaceback's solid design, which combines family-friendly practicality with an attractive exterior. While it’s not the most thrilling to drive, the overall comfort and ample headroom contribute positively to its appeal. Critics note that the dashboard design feels dated and could benefit from modernisation.

Read full review
WhatCar

WhatCar highlights the Skoda Rapid Spaceback's reliability and longevity, emphasising it also scores well on running costs. While the car generally performs well, some users report minor reliability concerns. Service costs are reasonable, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Finance options for the Skoda Rapid Spaceback are flexible. Various leasing agreements and financing plans cater to different budgets, making it easier for drivers to manage their expenses efficiently.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs associated with the Skoda Rapid Spaceback are notably competitive within its class. Regular maintenance is straightforward due to the availability of parts and the brand’s reputation for reliability. Fuel efficiency, especially with the petrol models, ensures lower expenditure on trips, making it an accessible choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Charging & fuel

For the upcoming electric model, charging costs are anticipated to be significantly lower than traditional fuel expenses. Home charging stations can provide convenience and affordability, especially with off-peak electricity rates.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2013

    Launch of Skoda Rapid Spaceback

  2. 2019

    End of production for Rapid Spaceback

  3. 2023

    Announcement of the electric retro icon variant

Read full launch story

The Skoda Rapid Spaceback was developed to offer a practical yet stylish option for families and young professionals looking for flexibility in their vehicle choice. It aims to blend efficiency with everyday usability. Over the years, the model has evolved from a conventional hatchback to introduce a range of modern features while now advancing towards an electric variant, represented in the iconic retro design that seeks to resonate with environmentally conscious consumers.

Compare with alternatives

The Skoda Rapid Spaceback (2013 - 2019) offers solid practicality and value, but faces strong competition from rivals with more premium offerings and dynamic driving experiences.

Volkswagen Golf Hatchback

Reference only

Premium option known for high build quality and driving dynamics.

vs features
The Golf offers superior cabin quality and a wide range of tech options, with a more refined and engaging driving experience than the Rapid.
vs price
Typically more expensive than the Rapid, reflecting its premium brand positioning and quality.
No Motoring.Today review

Ford Focus Hatchback

Reference only

A sporty contender favored for its fun-to-drive characteristics.

vs features
The Focus excels in driving dynamics and handling, providing a sportier feel than the Rapid, though it may lack some interior refinement and tech sophistication.
vs price
Generally competitive in price with the Rapid, sometimes slightly less expensive depending on the trim.
No Motoring.Today review

Renault Megane Hatchback

Reference only

A stylish option in the compact hatchback segment with a focus on value and equipment.

vs features
The Megane often includes more standard features for the price compared to the Rapid, but it may not match the Rapid’s rear space and practicality.
vs price
Typically priced similarly or slightly less than the Rapid, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Skoda Rapid Spaceback (2013 - 2019) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

1.2 TSI (90bhp) S 5dPetrol Manual · 2015–2017
Power
88 bhp
0–60 mph
10.8 s
Top speed
114 mph
Torque
160 Nm
Economy
60 mpg
Range
726 mi
CO₂
107 g/km
Insurance group
12
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£14,110
1.4 TDI CR (90bhp) S 5dDiesel Manual · 2015–2018
Power
88 bhp
0–60 mph
11.2 s
Top speed
114 mph
Torque
230 Nm
Economy
70 mpg
Range
847 mi
CO₂
103 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£16,110
1.2 TSI (110bhp) SE Tech 5dPetrol Manual · 2015–2017
Power
108 bhp
0–60 mph
9.4 s
Top speed
123 mph
Torque
175 Nm
Economy
57 mpg
Range
689 mi
CO₂
111 g/km
Insurance group
16
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£15,960
1.2 TSI (90bhp) SE Tech 5dPetrol Manual · 2015–2017
Power
88 bhp
0–60 mph
10.8 s
Top speed
114 mph
Torque
160 Nm
Economy
60 mpg
Range
726 mi
CO₂
107 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£15,260
1.2 TSI (90bhp) SE Tech 5d DSGPetrol Automatic · 2015–2017
Power
88 bhp
0–60 mph
10.9 s
Top speed
114 mph
Torque
160 Nm
Economy
60 mpg
Range
726 mi
CO₂
109 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£20 - £190
New price
£16,420
1.4 TDI CR (90bhp) SE Tech 5dDiesel Manual · 2015–2018
Power
88 bhp
0–60 mph
11.2 s
Top speed
114 mph
Torque
230 Nm
Economy
70 mpg
Range
847 mi
CO₂
104 g/km
Insurance group
14
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£17,195

+ 15 more trim variants

FAQs

What are the key features of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback?
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback offers a spacious interior, robust safety ratings with a 5-star Euro NCAP score, and competitive pricing, making it ideal for families and budget-conscious buyers.
When was the Skoda Rapid Spaceback first launched?
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback was launched in 2013, quickly becoming popular for its practicality and value.
Will there be an electric version of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback?
Yes, Skoda is set to introduce an electric version of the Rapid Spaceback, promising to combine its retro design with modern eco-friendly technology.
How does the Skoda Rapid Spaceback perform on the motorway?
On the motorway, the Skoda Rapid Spaceback provides a stable ride with good control over wind and road noise, focusing on comfort and efficiency rather than sportiness.
What are the running costs for the Skoda Rapid Spaceback?
Starting at £14,000, the Skoda Rapid Spaceback boasts competitive running costs, especially for diesel models, and further savings with its upcoming electric variant.

Skoda Rapid Spaceback (2013 - 2019) (2013–2019)

From £243/month