This is not a sensible comparison, we know that. Both the cars come from a different segment but Skoda has done wonders with the pricing of the Rapid 1.0 TSI, Rider being the most value for money variant. The Rapid Rider is even cheaper than VW Polo TSI edition and that's means a lot. Just to clear the confusion among buyers, we have come up with Skoda Rapid Rider Vs VW Polo TSI spec comparison and we will be telling you, which one is worth your money!
Skoda Rapid Rider Vs VW Polo TSI - Design and Dimensions
Both the Polo and Rapid sport nearly decade-old design language and haven't really changed since their first launch. Both the Rapid and Polo received numerous facelifts and engine options. Jumping to 2020, Rapid received the BS6 facelift and the Polo also received some minor changes. Talking about the Rapid Rider in particular, as it is the base variant of the Rapid, it gets steel wheels, halogen lights and basic interiors. On the other hand, the Polo TSI gets GTI inspired front grille and bumper, LED taillights and TSI stickering on the doors.
| Model | Skoda Rapid | Volkswagen Polo |
| Length | 4413mm | 3971mm |
| Width | 1699mm | 1682mm |
| Height | 1466mm | 1469mm |
| Wheelbase | 2552mm | 2470mm |
| Ground clearance (Laden) | 116mm | NA |
The Skoda Rapid is a mid-size sedan and measures more than four metres whereas the Polo is a hatchback measuring under four metres. It is evident that the Rapid is bigger in every dimension and offers much better space and comfort. The ground clearance of the Rapid may sound less at just 116mm but it is the laden ground clearance with occupants and fuel in count as well. Overall and clearly, the Rapid is a better car here but some may prefer the compact dimensions of the Polo.
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Skoda Rapid Rider Vs VW Polo TSI - Features
| Model | Skoda Rapid Rider | Polo TSI Edition |
| Cruise control | No | Yes |
| Electric ORVMs | Yes | Yes, foldable |
| Infotainment system | 2 din with 4 speakers | Touchscreen with Appconnect |
| steering mounted controls | No | Yes |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Auto AC | Yes | Yes |
| One-touch power windows | Yes | Yes |
| Alloy wheels | Steel | Alloys |
Evidently, the Polo is a better-equipped car with some features the Rapid Rider misses on. The Polo offers cruise control, steering mounted controls, touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play, rain-sensing wipers, cornering lamps, ambient lighting and a lot more. The Rapid may sound less on features but no one can call it a poorly equipped car as it comes with Auto AC, dual airbags, all power windows, rear AC vents and a lot more kit even in the base variant.
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Skoda Rapid Rider Vs VW Polo TSI - Engine and Specs
| Model | Skoda Rapid Rider | VW Polo TSI |
| Engine | 1.0-litre TSI, 3-cyl | 1.0-litre, 3-cyl |
| Power | 110 PS | 110 PS |
| Torque | 175 Nm 1750-4000 rpm | 175 Nm 1750-4000 rpm |
| Gearbox / Economy | 6-speed manual / 18.79kmpl | 6-speed manual / 18.24 kmpl |
Both the Rapid Rider and Polo TSi get exactly the same 1.0-litre TSI 3-cyl petrol engine which churns out 110 PS and 175 Nm of torque. The lower variants of the Polo also gets a 1.0-litre MPI engine and top variants also get 6-speed automatic transmission with the TSI engine. The Rapid, for now, only comes with one engine and transmission option that is 1.0-litre TSI with a 6-speed manual. However, Skoda will also launch the Rapid with 6-speed automatic transmission in future.
Skoda Rapid Rider Vs VW Polo TSI - Prices
| Model | Skoda Rapid Rider | VW Polo TSI |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | 7.49 lakh | 7.89 lakh |
The pricing is the highlight of this whole comparison. The Rider comes with great pricing and it really shines over its price tag. At just Rs 7.49 lakhs, it is even cheaper than the Polo which is a sub-four-metre hatch. If you look after the car to price ratio, the Rapid makes a lot of sense and the Rider variant is also decently equipped and isn't bare bone basically. If you want a fun-to-drive family car in this segment, the Rapid Rider is the car for you. But the Polo comes feature-loaded, although its rivals offer more, but couldn't justify the price tag when you see the Rapid. Hence, the Rapid Rider is the clear winner of this comparison and can be your next car purchase. Share your opinions on this comparo in our Whatsapp Group!
