Skoda Rapid Spaceback (2013 - 2019) 1.4 TDI CR (90bhp) SE Tech 5d DSG Owner Review
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In their own words
1.4 TDI DSG gives excellent fuel economy and very ample performance which is suitable for both town and Motorway commutes. The automatic gearbox is smooth and well refined when driving, but struggles when manoeuvring (parallel park etc) on hills. Despite the good performance of the 1.4 Engine, I have niggling doubts as to its long-term reliability due to multiple issues in the first 3 years, 40,000 miles of ownership, If given the choice, I would likely pick the 1.6 TDI offering. The Rapid Spaceback feels a solid car and has good legroom front and back. The driving position and controls and well laid out and comfortable, however, the seats are relatively unsupportive and can be uncomfortable on longer journeys. Boot space is good but is let down by the fact that the rear seats do not fold flat. Isofix connectors in the back are difficult to access due to the seat fabric, however once installed Isofix car seats feel well fitted when using the top-tether. Trim level on the SE Tech is excellent with a good number of features including DAB radio, Sat Nav, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Electric Heated Mirrors and Air Conditioning. All in all a great car, let down by some small niggling features and possible reliability issues of the 1.4 TDI.
How reliable do you find the car?
It pains me to say this because the car itself is excellent, but during the 3 year warranty period I had the following faults. Both were fixed by Skoda under warranty and service was excellent through Skoda Assist, but nevertheless, it leaves me with niggling doubts on long-term reliability. - Water pump impeller failure at 35,000 miles (cambelt changed to save labour costs) - Cambelt tensioner collapse at 39,000 leading to a full engine re-build at a cost in excess of >£5,000 - Luckily covered by warranty. In addition, the paintwork is not that great for 3 years/39,000 milesDoes the car do everything you expected it to do?
The car is good, the built quality feels sturdy and the overall finish is nice. The infotainment system is excellent, especially smart-link for use of google maps etc. but the standard sat-nav is good too. DAB radio is essential in 2018 and this functions very well. A wide range of information including tyre pressure monitoring, etc also available. Rear parking sensors great for tight spots. 1.4 TDI engine with the DSG box is nippy, responsive and perfectly ample for town and motorway commutes. Fuel economy is good punching in at 56-58 around town and 62-65 on the motorway (combined around 59) but still well short of that given on paper. The seats could be more supportive in the front. I suffer from a bad back and the lack of lumbar support is apparent. Though the controls and driving position and well laid out. Start/stop system and hill control can be a little iffy at times, not a 'true' hill hold as in VW/Audi.About their car
- Fuel type Diesel
- When purchased March 2018
- Condition when bought Used
- Current Mileage 39,000 miles
- Average MPG 59 mpg
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