This is a dangerous game, which performs the VW group there. Against the two Korean automakers one needs a counterpart, for these increasingly come closer to the Group. Maybe VW is to number 1 in the world and leaves behind both Toyota and GM, but what is, if subsequently or for some time Hyundai/Kia try the same?

Since Skoda already has the function to defy as an inexpensive brand. Only here is possible an effective defense also in the face of prices. Only, there's a catch. The subsidiary company uses its chances, not for the first time so well that the parent company must make an effort to achieve this price/performance ratio at least approximately.

The Rapid perhaps has because even a little more space between the Fabia and Octavia, as eg would have been between the Polo and Golf. The Rapid perhaps has because even a little more space between the Fabia and Octavia, as eg would have been between the Polo and Golf. Great as it exploits it. 20 centimeters more wheelbase than the Rapid notchback, while 13 inches shorter. Approx. 17 centimeters more wheelbase than the Golf 7 and only 5 inches longer. Anyway, the Skoda engineers seem to have understood the Modular Transverse Platform.

One can believe them, that they do not want to call this new one 'estate car'. The could still be built on the length of the Rapid notchback. And then the designations. Well, 'Rapid' is a Škoda-type having tradition. But how much more useful sounds 'Spaceback' than 'Sportback'. The word 'sporty' will already used so inflationary, that you almost can not hear it any more.

There are another stroke of luck, namely, that the probably much less beloved notchback sedan in this country rather saw the light of the world. So there was still time, to respond a little to the carping of the car testers. Also, the steering is said to have benefited from this circumstance. Probably only a few wishes remain open, at least, with the upscale amenities. Who still grumbles, there is access to the VW.

And then the glass roof! Convertible feeling without cabriolet drawbacks. Certainly, one looks it from the Frenchmen, but one is indeed free to do the same. E.g. this fabulous direct-injection turbos. The also really beautiful diesel engines like to apologize, but here are meant the petrol engines. Who would have ever thought that so much power could be in a relatively small gasoline engine.

If you can not score against Hyundai and Co. in the price, then probably with these engines. Indeed, he who is from yesterday and then only look at the performance will not notice the reverse difference in the torque. This value is, however, crucial in our current traffic conditions. For the moderate consumption may serve the CO₂ values with possibility of comparison. 10/13