These are the first photos of the final production version of the all-new Skoda Rapid, a compact sedan that sits between the Fabia and the Octavia models and which was previewed through the Mission L concept at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

The Rapid rides on a stretched version of the current VW Polo’s platform architecture and measures 4.48 metres in length and 1.7 metres in width. It comes equipped with a tailgate that lifts together with the rear window revealing a boot with 500 liters of space.

Skoda isn’t offering full details yet on the available powerplants, but it did say that the Rapid will launch in Europe with five petrol and two diesel engines.

“This is a model which sets benchmarks in the compact saloon segment: The ŠKODA Rapid is a roomy, elegant and at the same time an affordable car for the whole family, impressing with clever solutions, cutting-edge technology and high economy,” said Skoda boss Winfried Vahland.

“In short, it is a car permitting mobility in a comfortable, reasonably priced and environmentally friendly package. The right car at the right time,” he added.

The Czech automaker also tells us that the Rapid is Skoda’s first production model to fully feature the brand’s newly formulated design language.

The Rapid will make its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in September before it hits European dealerships later in the fall.

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