Skoda Rapid special editions launched

Skoda has launched two special editions of the Skoda Rapid – called the Skoda Rapid SE Connect and the Skoda Rapid Sport – which represent huge savings on similarly specced standard models.

The Rapid SE Connect is based on the company’s 1.2-litre, 85bhp petrol Skoda Rapid SE, but adds kit worth £3,665 for less than £1,000. The Rapid SE Connect goes from 0-60mph in 11.7 seconds, can return 54mpg, costs £105 in annual road tax, and is yours for £12,990, while standard equipment includes sat-nav, a DAB radio, rear-parking sensors and 16-inch alloy wheels. There's a choice of two metallic paint colours and just 800 examples will be built.

The Skoda Rapid Sport gives more of the same, but this time focuses on sharpening up the Rapid’s looks. That means it adds to the SE’s list of equipment with 17-inch black alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, front fog lights, sports seats, stainless steel pedals, black door mirrors and a rear spoiler. With only 200 models being built, the Rapid Sport will be even more exclusive and costs £15,630 – or the same price as the standard 104bhp, 1.2-litre Rapid SE.

The Skoda Fabia was awarded a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, while the brand finished second only to Lexus in our 2013 Driver Power owner satisfaction survey.

Skoda has also just launched the Skoda Rapid Spaceback, which is shorter than the Rapid hatchback, but actually offers more space for rear-seat passengers. Click here to watch our video review of the Skoda Rapid Spaceback.

For reviews of all the latest Skoda models, visit the Carbuyer Skoda reviews page.