Skoda has refreshed its Rapid and Rapid Spaceback with a facelift and new engine options.

Up front, modified fog lights are integrated in the newly designed lower part of the bumper. The main headlights of are now available in bi-xenon, with the daytime running lights using LED technology. A narrow chrome strip (standard from SE L up) connects the lights and creates a wider-looking front end. Black-tinted covers on the taillights in the Skoda C-shape (Skoda Rapid LED technology as an option) give the rear an ‘even sportier look’. The Skoda Rapid Spaceback SE Sport also features an extended rear window.

The wheels are available in new designs - COSTA wheel trims for the 15 inch wheels, EVORA (silver) and VIGO (silver / black metallic) for the 16 inch alloys, TRIUS (silver), and TORINO (black polished, for the Monte Carlo edition) 17 inch alloy wheels.

As part of the upgrade, a 1.0-litre TSI engine is now available. Responsiveness and efficiency characterise the three-cylinder, which is available in two power levels: For the Rapid there is a 1.0 TSI with 95 PS, (top speed of 116 mph, 0-62 mph time of 11 seconds and combined fuel consumption 64.2 mpg, CO2 101 g/km) or there is a 1.0 TSI with 110 PS, (top speed of 124 mph, 0-62 mph time of 9.8 seconds and combined fuel consumption 62.8 mpg, CO2 104 g/km.

For the Spaceback there is a choice of a 1.0 TSI (with 95 PS, top speed of 114 mph, 0-62 mph time of 11 seconds and combined fuel consumption 64.2 mpg, CO2 101 g/km) or the 1.0 TSI with 110 PS, (top speed of  123 mph, 0-62 mph time of 9.8 seconds and combined fuel consumption 62.8 mpg, CO2 104 g/km.)

The new petrol engine weighs ten kilograms less than the 1.2-litre unit used previously, and runs ‘particularly quietly’. In addition to the two 1.0 TSI, three other engines are available. All powertrains are equipped with brake energy recovery, a start-stop system and meet the EU6 emission standard. The diesel engines operate with direct common-rail injection and diesel particulate filters.

The music and navigation systems of the Skoda Rapid and Skoda Rapid Spaceback are based on the second-generation modular infotainment kit. Both models continue to feature a wide range of safety systems: The electronic stabilisation control ESC and a continual tyre-pressure monitoring, for example, come as standard. Both models also feature the multi-collision brake, which, in the event of an accident, reduces the risk of multiple collisions by preventing the continuous rolling of the vehicle. The trailer-stabilisation programme expands the electronic stabilisation control.

New additions to Skoda’s 'Simply Clever' solutions include the option of two USB ports in the back, which can be used to charge smartphones or other small mobile devices. Other practical details can be found in the vehicle (standard or optional) including ice scraper in the fuel tank cover, boot mat – one side carpet, the other rubber, a holder for the hi-viz vest under the driver's seat, umbrella in the compartment under the passenger seat, portable waste container, USB port and multimedia holders in the centre console, ticket holder on the windshield, various cup holders, nets on the reverse of the front seats and a net programme for the boot.

The revamped Skoda Rapid and Rapid Spaceback will be revealed in Geneva.