Rapid Spaceback buyer’s guide
FROM £6,195 With an update imminent, hatch looks a tempting used buy
How to get your hands on spacious small Skoda for £6,200
IT’S coming up to three decades since Skoda was absorbed into the Volkswagen empire, and while the cars are no longer as cheap as they were, they still offer excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.
For nearly 20 years, Skoda sold large numbers of Fabia superminis and Octavia hatchbacks and estates, but nothing in between – until the arrival of the Rapid in 2012. This mid-sized hatch in turn spawned the Rapid Spaceback in 2014, as a more practical carry-all that slotted in between the regular Rapid and the Fabia Estate in terms of size and carrying capacity.
A facelifted Spaceback will soon reach UK showrooms, but how does the original car stack up as a used buy?
History
THE Rapid Spaceback was launched in the UK in January 2014. Buyers could choose between S, SE and Elegance trim levels, and 85bhp or 104bhp 1.2 TSI and 120bhp 1.4 TSI petrol engines or a 1.6 TDI diesel in 89bhp or 104bhp forms. Within weeks a Greenline version had arrived, powered by a 1.6 TDI engine with CO2 emissions of 99g/km.
A range refresh in May 2015 introduced a 1.4 TDI engine, reduced prices and a new trim hierarchy: S, SE Tech and SE Sport. The 1.2 TSI now came with 89bhp or 109bhp, the 1.4 TSI was boosted to 123bhp and the 1.6 TDI to 113bhp. The Suv-like Scoutline was introduced in September 2015.
Which one?
SKODA’S 1.2 TSI engine is fine, but the 1.4 TSI unit is usefully more muscular. The 1.4 TDI lacks refinement, and while it’s got plenty of zest, real-world fuel economy is matched by the quieter and more torquey 1.6 TDI engine.
The DSG dual-clutch transmission is renowned for being very user-friendly and it’s a transmission that’s easy to recommend, but such cars attract a relatively hefty premium. Entry-level cars are fairly spartan but do come with air-con, powered front windows, electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors and a heightadjustable driver’s seat. Mid-range cars add alloys, a multifunction steering wheel, navigation, DAB radio, electric rear windows plus cruise and climate control. Top-spec models have a glass roof and sports seats.
Alternatives
AS a small family hatchback the Spaceback is up against the likes of the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra, both of which are plentiful, excellent value and come with a choice of engines and trims.
Related to the Skoda and offering a much sharper design is the SEAT Leon; this provides similar quality and reliability in a far more appealing package. The Mazda 3 is reliable, great to drive and very good value, and the Peugeot 308 is another desirable all-rounder. We’d also consider the reliable and top-value Hyundai i30 and Kia Cee’d, plus the Skoda Fabia Estate, which shares much with the Rapid but has a larger boot.
Verdict
THE Rapid Spaceback isn’t inspiring, but it does provide an easy ownership experience and it’s strong value, too, although the entry-level models are best avoided.
The interior is functional rather than pleasing; even in top-spec form the car doesn’t look distinctive inside or out. However, practicality is excellent, and Skoda has some of the best dealers around.
You also get a lot for your money; topspec Spacebacks have plenty of luxuries as standard. While some owners find the ride firm, if you don’t and you can find a really good range-topper, you should be able to get years of trouble-free motoring out of it.
“Spaceback is a more practical carry-all that slots between the regular Rapid and the Fabia Estate”
OUR VIEW
WE don’t separate the Spaceback from its Rapid sibling in our Driver Power satisfaction survey; both came 88th in 2016. Eighth for practicality and 10th for running costs are good; 69th for reliability and 77th for performance are okay. But 117th for build quality and 149th for ride quality are disappointing.
YOUR VIEW
JACK Jameson from Braintree, Essex, owns a Spaceback 1.2 TSI. He told us: “When I looked at the space inside and standard equipment levels, I decided this was the best car for my money, and I’ve not been disappointed.
“It feels ordinary inside and it’s not fast, but it’s reliable, economical and quick enough for everyday driving.”