The Skoda Rapid Spaceback Coming to Frankfurt as Five-Door Hatchback

SkodaSkodaCzech Rep., 1895 > present57 models
2557 photos
7 videos
will add a hatchback variant to the RapidSkoda Rapid Gen.1Czech Rep., 2012 > present87 versions
120 photos
called the SpacebackSkoda Rapid SpacebackCzech Rep., 2013 > present at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and it will go on sale in October 2013.

“The Rapid Spaceback is a great addition to this class in that it combines Skoda’s good practical characteristics with the popular hatchback shape. Sporting the new Skoda design, the Rapid Spaceback has a fresh, dynamic and individual appearance. It is a compact car with a sporty chic, spacious and practical, ideal for young people and families,” said Skoda CEO Winfried Vahland.

The Spaceback will be aimed at young buyers looking for a compact, five-door hatchback but who do not want a full wagon. It will ride on the same 2.602m wheelbase as the standard car, but overall length will be 18cm less. The only major change comes at the rear where an extra pillar will be added to support the longer roof. From the B-pillar forward, the two versions will be identical.

The Spaceback will be available with four petrol and two diesel engines at launch. At launch, the 89hp 1.6 TDI will only be available in the Rapid range in the Spaceback. The most efficient GreenLine version will use 3.8l/100km and emit 99g/km of CO2.

Skoda will offer an optional panoramic, tinted glass sunroof that goes from the windshield to the rear window. The option will also extend the rear window 10cm further down the body and will include a black rear spoiler.

Inside, the Skoda Rapid Spaceback will have the same legroom and headroom as the standard car, but rear cargo space will be reduced 135 liters over the standard Rapid to 415 liters.

Interior options will include a double cargo floor that will split the truck into two levels.

Skoda will reveal more details about the Spaceback at the Frankfurt Motor Show.