It's been almost a decade since the launch of the Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Rapid in India. Finally, these mid size sedans are scheduled to get replaced by all-new models in 2021. However, before laughing the sedans, VW-Skoda will be launching the SUVs first. 

The production version of the Skoda Vision IN concept SUV will be the first all new product in their new launch strategy. Next in-line will be the Volkswagen Taigun midsize SUV. Only after these launches, VW’s mid-size sedan will come to the market.

Similar to the current Vento-Rapid models, the new generation sedans will share their underpinnings, switchgear

and powertrains, but will look unique following their brand specific signature design language. Both these sedans will be based on the made for India, MQB-A0-IN platform.

Both the midsize sedans are expected to retain the current 110hp, 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, along with the 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque convertor automatic options. Besides this, VW-SKODA is also likely to bring a hybrid based powertrain.

The larger 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit seen on the VW-SKODA SUVs will not be offered on the new Vento and Rapid sedans.

VW-SKODA is pushing for 95 percent localisation and more parts sharing of new upcoming models to reduce costs.

Stay tuned for further updates on Skoda Volkswagen's new upcoming cars.

Rivalry can be quite fun for the spectators. It's even more fun when big brands take a dig at their rivals in a direct manner. Tata motors has released an ad for their Altroz premium hatchback based on the Halloween theme, which takes a dig at the soon to be launched Hyundai i20. 

            Tata Motors have been running an all new 2020 Halloween Campaign using their cars. However, one particular ad with the Altroz directly takes a hit on the upcoming rival, 2020 Hyundai i20. This short video has a caption too, “You Can I the Trick 20 Times , but

it’s the treat that you fall for” which is directly mentions the upcoming i20. The car is even wrapped in the video to show that it is yet to be launched. In simple terms, they are referring to the i20 as a trick with loads of features and the Altroz as a treat. Hyundai i20 is all set to become the most feature loaded car in the segment once launched next week in India. 

         Hyundai has also responded to this ad from Tata with a short video along with the caption, “The darkness has found a new treat. This is no trick. The all-new i20 is all set to treat you with its sleek style and thrilling performance. Stay tuned.”

The 2020 Hyundai i20 will be launched in India on 5th November, 2020. Bookings for the new premium hatchback have already commenced in India and a considerable amount of details of the new i20 are already out on the internet. It will be loaded with features and compete against the Tata Altroz with two petrol engines and one diesel engine. The Altroz is a strong product too, with best in class safety credentials and handling. It remains to be seen how both the hatchbacks perform in real world, as well as in terms of sales.

Skoda India has officially launched the Automatic range of their best selling Rapid mid size Sedan. Launched earlier this year, the BS6 Rapid TSI was available with only a 6 speed manual transmission till now.

The Skoda Rapid BS6 is available with a 1.0L TSI 3 cyl turbo petrol engine only producing 110PS Power and 175NM Torque. The manufacturer has introduced a new 6 speed torque converter automatic transmission which is the same as on the Polo and Vento TSI.

This Automatic gearbox is available on all except the entry level Rider variant of the Rapid TSI:

• Rider plus

• Ambition

• Onyx

• Style

• Monte Carlo

Other than the transmission

changes, the top spec Style variant of the Rapid Sedan will carry forward the same features as before:

• Projector headlamps with LED DRLs

• Auto folding ORVMs

• 16” Alloy wheels

• Automatic climate control

• Auto headlamps & wipers

• Cruise control

• 7” Touchscreen system

• Android auto & Apple carplay

• Reverse camera

• 6 way adjustable driver seat with lumbar support

• Leather upholstery

• Auto dimming IRVM

• Front and Rear centre armrests

• Smart Power windows with anti pinch

• Remote central locking

• Rear defogger

• Front and rear fog lamps

Safety:

       Safety features on the Rapid TSI includes:

• ABS with EBD

• Dual airbags

• Side airbags (on Style variant only)

• Perimetric alarm system

• Pretensioner seatbelts

Launch & price:

        The new Automatic range of the Skoda Rapid TSI is priced from Rs9.49L to Rs13.29L (Ex-showroom prices); at a premium of around ?1.5L over the manual variants. The new Rapid TSI competes against the likes of the VW Vento TSI, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Verna, the new Honda City and the Toyota Yaris.