Next-gen Volkswagen Vento launch to precede new Skoda Rapid

The Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Rapid are scheduled to get replaced by all-new models in 2021. We’ve reported that these mid-size sedans will follow the brands’ mid-size SUVs to the market, but now we’ve got new details on the order in which the replacements for the Vento and Rapid will launch. While the production version of the Skoda Vision IN concept SUV will precede the Volkswagen Taigun to the market, VW’s mid-size sedan will come before Skoda’s.

• Skoda Rapid replacement to launch after the Volkswagen Vento’s
• New mid-size sedans and SUVs to be built on tailored-for-India, MQB-A0-IN platform

Next-gen Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Rapid: What we know so far

Like the current models, the replacements for these mid-size sedans will share their underpinnings and powertrains, but look unique. The badge-engineered cousins will be built on the heavily localised and tailored for India, MQB-A0-IN platform.

Mechanical bits will be shared between the Volkswagen and Skoda sedans as well. Expect the current 110hp, 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine to be carried forward, along with the 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque convertor automatic options. Our reviews of the current Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI and Volkswagen Vento 1.0 TSI showed that they are among the quickest and most fun-to-drive cars in their class, and this characteristic is likely to continue with the all-new models.

While the Skoda and VW mid-size SUVs are expected to get a larger 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit, this engine is unlikely to be offered on what will be the new Vento and Rapid.

In order to meet cost targets, Skoda Auto’s global CEO, Bernhard Maier, is pushing for 95 percent localisation of new models launched under the India 2.0 plan. What should also help keep costs in check is the sharing of the platform and engines, which should help build economies of scale.

Skoda Volkswagen Auto India 2.0 plans

Since October last year, when the VW Group in India merged its three passenger car entities to form Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt Ltd (SAVWIPL), Skoda has been assigned to take the lead in our market. This merger was an important milestone for the VW Group’s India 2.0 project, which is set to see the development and launches of multiple models from Volkswagen and Skoda.

However, which new models will follow the two mid-size SUVs and sedans is yet to be confirmed.

Also see:

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Skoda patents illuminated seatbelt buckles

Volkswagen Polo, Vento get connected car tech