Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!

shabeermohamed · 11th December 2020, 19:47

Congrats on your purchase. One of my favourite cars. Regular user of my cousin's 1.5 TDi DSG. What a ride. One of the very few cars other than my earlier GT TSi that brings a smile to your face everytime you are behind the wheel.
While this is equally good, I felt the low.end tourque especially in the city is a tad bit inadequate. Also a little rough at slow speeds.

anuragbagur · 21st December 2020, 18:42

Hi @turboguy,
Congratulations on your Rapid Monte Carlo. It is certainly a stunner. I am considering the same variant - however I have been told by the dealers that there are no stocks anywhere and I can expect MY 2021 stocks in January. I absolutely hate those aftermarket HU and seat covers. Can I ask the dealership to deliver the car without seat covers as well? I think they are removable. Also, you have mentioned that the interior plastic quality has reduced over the years. How can it be of less quality than Polo/ Vento - they are supposed to use the same parts? Just curious - I don't like the front of Vento but if interiors have been compromised then it will bother me.

Altocumulus · 22nd December 2020, 00:20

Congratulations Turboguy on a great buy. Also you are lucky to have the sweet diamond cut alloys. It's discontinued in the new MCs.

I brought home a new Rapid Tsi few weeks back as well. Initially was inclined towards the Monte Carlo MT. More so because wifey loved the Red

I was in the market for an AT, and was looking at the Polo Tsi AT. However, she pulled me to Skoda showroom and am glad she did. She loves Skodas, thanks to the Laura Tsi we had earlier.

Incidentally a close friend bought a Polo Tsi MT as well during the same time which I got a chance to drive extensively. Did a TD of the Rapid MT as well. The turbolag was a deal breaker for me sadly and I had my hopes pinned on the AT. Had to wait for the launch and came back super impressed after a TD. There is absolutely no turbolag and for a TC the shifts are super fast. If you are not used to the DSG you will not understand the difference. Also for the Polo, Autocar did some vbox tests and supposedly the TC equipped GT Tsi was faster than the 1.2 Tsi DSG in 0-100 and in-gear acceleration, which if true is commendable.

While I did shortlist the AT, spending nearly 2L extra for the Monte Carlo was not only pushing me over my initial budget considerably (Polo AT ), but also paying so much just for Cruise Control (other extra features was not a requirement for me) wasn't convincing for me. So settled for an Onyx AT.

I asked the dealer not to fix the seat covers because the fabric ones from the company is way way better. It's same as the one on the Monte Carlo. Opted for the diffuser and rear camera from the Style/ Monte Carlo which was fixed before delivery the latter being plug and play. Got the tyres changed to Continental MC5s the same day and added a 70 Mai TPMS, dashcam and air purifier to the car as well. The seat covers and mud flaps are with me separately sealed in the boxes as it came from the factory. Will sell them on OLX I guess.

With regards to the headlights, Zac Hollis has promised Skoda approved aftermarket bulbs along with other accessories by Feb 2021. The MID freeze at 80 kmph supposedly can be disabled using VCDS however I am yet to try that out. I don't mind the beeps but the MID freeze is irritating.

I am also looking at getting the engine guard for the car. There is one available for the Polo Tsi, like fluidicjoy installed in his Polo 1.0 Tsi AT however am not sure if the mounting points will be similar. Skoda doesn't have a similar part available nor can they confirm the one from Polo would fit. Awaiting to see something similar fitted by other Rapid TSI users.

anuragbagur · 24th December 2020, 22:04

Quote:

Originally Posted by Altocumulus

Congratulations Turboguy on a great buy. Also you are lucky to have the sweet diamond cut alloys. It's discontinued in the new MCs.

I brought home a new Rapid Tsi few weeks back as well. Initially was inclined towards the Monte Carlo MT. More so because wifey loved the Red

I was in the market for an AT, and was looking at the Polo Tsi AT. However, she pulled me to Skoda showroom and am glad she did. She loves Skodas, thanks to the Laura Tsi we had earlier.

Incidentally a close friend bought a Polo Tsi MT as well during the same time which I got a chance to drive extensively. Did a TD of the Rapid MT as well. The turbolag was a deal breaker for me sadly and I had my hopes pinned on the AT. Had to wait for the launch and came back super impressed after a TD. There is absolutely no turbolag and for a TC the shifts are super fast. If you are not used to the DSG you will not understand the difference. Also for the Polo, Autocar did some vbox tests and supposedly the TC equipped GT Tsi was faster than the 1.2 Tsi DSG in 0-100 and in-gear acceleration, which if true is commendable.

Hi Altocumulus,
Congratulations on your Rapid Onyx and I am also deciding between Onyx and Monte Carlo. I am not sure whether to take the plunge and yes INR 2 lakhs over Onyx is very steep. Can you please share pictures of your interior with factory fitted seats? It will give us fair idea as I also do not want those cheap seat covers to be installed

Sen · 25th December 2020, 03:18

Quote:

Originally Posted by TurboGuy

The reverse parking camera feed is pretty decent on the HU display, though I noticed a delay of 3-4 seconds to switch back from camera mode when I disengage reverse gear. Did others notice this?

I have the same HU in my Vento H+ TSI MT, and I believe it's more of a safety feature to ensure that you can keep an eye on your surroundings for a few more seconds as you prepare to drive ahead. Just my two cents.

Congratulations on your ride! As will be detailed in my ownership review coming soon, I almost fell for the Rapid, what a beauty she truly is in that red and black with those rims. Enjoy the car!

aeyjay · 27th December 2020, 20:13

Congratulations TurboGuy, I find this color combination on the Rapid to be most desirable one.

This is my first post on TeamBHP, got my membership approved today. I took Rapid AT test drive last week and find the new turbo TSI engine to be cautious but builds up the speed with ease. I am looking for a good AT mostly for city drive and find the Rapid too tempting for its sheer build quality (just that I couldn’t get convinced with the build quality of some of the other cars in this range). I liked Onyx with its 16 inch alloys (about +20k plus over Ambition with 15 inch alloys) and black grill; however, Skoda doesn't have any stock and will only get a update about the availability in early 2021. Plus with launch of Vision around March, I am a bit confused if should wait for the launch.

All that being said, I am still hesitant to go for the Rapid just based on the legacy of Skoda after sales in Mumbai despite its new service and warranty package.

Altocumulus · 27th December 2020, 23:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by anuragbagur

Hi Altocumulus,
Congratulations on your Rapid Onyx and I am also deciding between Onyx and Monte Carlo. I am not sure whether to take the plunge and yes INR 2 lakhs over Onyx is very steep. Can you please share pictures of your interior with factory fitted seats? It will give us fair idea as I also do not want those cheap seat covers to be installed

Here they are. Hope this helps

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-img_20201227_163634.jpg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-img_20201227_163644.jpg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-img_20201227_163717.jpg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-img_20201227_163724.jpg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-img_20201227_163728.jpg

itwasntme · 28th December 2020, 07:50

Lovely black interiors. Somehow, Skoda does it better than VW. That steering wheel is yummy and the seat fabric & fitting are just right.

I'd say use as is for 3/4 years, and then go for a art leather interior from a reputed guy like Karlsson.

Also consider a set of Kagu mats and a metallic pedal cover set.

aeyjay · 28th December 2020, 11:13

Quote:

Originally Posted by Altocumulus

Here they are. Hope this helps

Attachment 2098284
Attachment 2098286
Attachment 2098288
Attachment 2098287
Attachment 2098289

Thanks for the images Altocumulus, I too prefer this black interior on Onyx over the beige ones on other trims.

Just a question to @Turboguy and @Altocumulus as you have been driving these for few months, do you find the IVRM and OVRM size smaller than usual, and are their any blind spots? I found them to be smaller during my TD.

pvivek2 · 28th December 2020, 18:21

Quote:

Originally Posted by aeyjay

Thanks for the images Altocumulus, I too prefer this black interior on Onyx over the beige ones on other trims.

Just a question to @Turboguy and @Altocumulus as you have been driving these for few months, do you find the IVRM and OVRM size smaller than usual, and are their any blind spots? I found them to be smaller during my TD.

I just took delivery of my Rapid four days back, but did a good 750 km till now over a weekend trip. My view is that the ORVMs themselves are small in size in proportion to the body yes, but found them to offer a decent view of the traffic to the sides - my hunch is maybe it's the mirror design/shape that counters the small size. As for the IRVM, compared to my hatchback (Grand i10) it offers a slightly smaller view, but again not at all a concern. Here's a pic of the rear view from IRVM anyway - I'll leave you to be the judge!

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-irvm.jpg

Quote:

Originally Posted by anuragbagur

Hi Altocumulus,
Congratulations on your Rapid Onyx and I am also deciding between Onyx and Monte Carlo. I am not sure whether to take the plunge and yes INR 2 lakhs over Onyx is very steep. Can you please share pictures of your interior with factory fitted seats? It will give us fair idea as I also do not want those cheap seat covers to be installed

Just to clarify, the Monte Carlo and Onyx come with different seat covers on top of the same factory fitted black seats. The cheap looking ones covered in reviews and the ones you're referring to is from Monte Carlo I think - is that right? If so, check out the Onyx leatherette covers separately - they come in grey and black and look good IMO!

wildnomad0312 · 30th December 2020, 11:48

Took delivery of my Skoda Rapid Onyx MT Lapiz Blue last Wednesday.
I somehow find the headlights brightness to inadequate for my usage.
Could use some suggestions regarding suitable bulbs to replace the stock ones.

I would require a good bright white light, with good throw, but at the same time, would not want to blind the oncoming driver.

If someone could suggest good bulbs and the configurations, to support the above, it would be great.

Thanks in advance.

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-8776b18850b8431dbed3db1386a1e956.jpeg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-57937485e11d4feeaac4031b9e8d23a1.jpeg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-449ec24c9cae44e482102d52e9183371.jpeg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-507d1b9f116c4bd888bec41c10270e48.jpeg

Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast!-6ccbe5bb9c1b4ee39067ae883de26515.jpeg

TurboGuy · 30th December 2020, 17:51

Congratulations on your Onyx TSI. Wish you happy and safe miles.

Quote:

Originally Posted by wildnomad0312

If someone could suggest good bulbs and the configurations, to support the above, it would be great.

Skoda is launching a high power bulb as an accessory sometime in February. However, do not expect this to make day and night difference as the real culprit is the projector/reflector design itself and not the bulb. This being an approved accessory, you shouldn't worry about warranty, though.

aeyjay · 30th December 2020, 22:32

Quote:

Originally Posted by pvivek2

I just took delivery of my Rapid four days back, but did a good 750 km till now over a weekend trip. My view is that the ORVMs themselves are small in size in proportion to the body yes, but found them to offer a decent view of the traffic to the sides - my hunch is maybe it's the mirror design/shape that counters the small size. As for the IRVM, compared to my hatchback (Grand i10) it offers a slightly smaller view, but again not at all a concern. Here's a pic of the rear view from IRVM anyway - I'll leave you to be the judge!

Thank you for the response pvivek2 and congratulations on your purchase. I plan to take another TD to see how it works during low light to be more comfortable. Hopefully it will also give a fair idea of the headlight effectiveness which currently seem to be a pain point on the new Rapid.

pavi · 27th January 2021, 18:30

Congratulations on your new car.
A wonderful turn of events have resulted in me owning a white Rapid Monte Carlo and my brother a red one. Both are manual transmissions and I just loved driving the car. The TSI engine, coupled with a good transmission and a great chasis is making my drives highly enjoyable. Thanks to you for providing us the knowledge that 'Monte carlo can be delivered with RCD system'. We did not opt for android head unit, by sharing your ownership review to the sales guy.

Zenboi · 28th March 2021, 00:46

Hey, Nice Review and congrats on your purchase.

I am contemplating to buy the Kushaq. I understand that it would share the exact same 1.0L TSI unit as other VAG cars. I had recently test driven 2 turbo petrol cars (Nexon and Kiger) and found the extended throttle actuation during upshifts (delayed reduction in engine speed even when fully depressed) very annoying. I understand from a friend that it's a feature in all BS6 cars as OEMs map the throttle so that it reduces the amount of unburnt fuel/carbon in the exhaust when the throttle is abruptly cut during upshifting.

Is that manifested on the rapid too? How do you find it/cope with it?

11th December 2020, 19:47	#31
shabeermohamed BHPian Join Date: Apr 2020 Location: Bangalore Posts: 73 Thanked: 59 Times	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Congrats on your purchase. One of my favourite cars. Regular user of my cousin's 1.5 TDi DSG. What a ride. One of the very few cars other than my earlier GT TSi that brings a smile to your face everytime you are behind the wheel. While this is equally good, I felt the low.end tourque especially in the city is a tad bit inadequate. Also a little rough at slow speeds.
	(1) Thanks

21st December 2020, 18:42	#32
anuragbagur BHPian Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: Bangalore Posts: 67 Thanked: 107 Times View My Garage	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Hi @turboguy, Congratulations on your Rapid Monte Carlo. It is certainly a stunner. I am considering the same variant - however I have been told by the dealers that there are no stocks anywhere and I can expect MY 2021 stocks in January. I absolutely hate those aftermarket HU and seat covers. Can I ask the dealership to deliver the car without seat covers as well? I think they are removable. Also, you have mentioned that the interior plastic quality has reduced over the years. How can it be of less quality than Polo/ Vento - they are supposed to use the same parts? Just curious - I don't like the front of Vento but if interiors have been compromised then it will bother me.
	() Thanks

22nd December 2020, 00:20	#33
Altocumulus Senior - BHPian Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: NCR/ KOL/ BLR Posts: 1,177 Thanked: 2,187 Times View My Garage	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Congratulations Turboguy on a great buy. Also you are lucky to have the sweet diamond cut alloys. It's discontinued in the new MCs. I brought home a new Rapid Tsi few weeks back as well. Initially was inclined towards the Monte Carlo MT. More so because wifey loved the Red I was in the market for an AT, and was looking at the Polo Tsi AT. However, she pulled me to Skoda showroom and am glad she did. She loves Skodas, thanks to the Laura Tsi we had earlier. Incidentally a close friend bought a Polo Tsi MT as well during the same time which I got a chance to drive extensively. Did a TD of the Rapid MT as well. The turbolag was a deal breaker for me sadly and I had my hopes pinned on the AT. Had to wait for the launch and came back super impressed after a TD. There is absolutely no turbolag and for a TC the shifts are super fast. If you are not used to the DSG you will not understand the difference. Also for the Polo, Autocar did some vbox tests and supposedly the TC equipped GT Tsi was faster than the 1.2 Tsi DSG in 0-100 and in-gear acceleration, which if true is commendable. While I did shortlist the AT, spending nearly 2L extra for the Monte Carlo was not only pushing me over my initial budget considerably (Polo AT ), but also paying so much just for Cruise Control (other extra features was not a requirement for me) wasn't convincing for me. So settled for an Onyx AT. I asked the dealer not to fix the seat covers because the fabric ones from the company is way way better. It's same as the one on the Monte Carlo. Opted for the diffuser and rear camera from the Style/ Monte Carlo which was fixed before delivery the latter being plug and play. Got the tyres changed to Continental MC5s the same day and added a 70 Mai TPMS, dashcam and air purifier to the car as well. The seat covers and mud flaps are with me separately sealed in the boxes as it came from the factory. Will sell them on OLX I guess. With regards to the headlights, Zac Hollis has promised Skoda approved aftermarket bulbs along with other accessories by Feb 2021. The MID freeze at 80 kmph supposedly can be disabled using VCDS however I am yet to try that out. I don't mind the beeps but the MID freeze is irritating. I am also looking at getting the engine guard for the car. There is one available for the Polo Tsi, like fluidicjoy installed in his Polo 1.0 Tsi AT however am not sure if the mounting points will be similar. Skoda doesn't have a similar part available nor can they confirm the one from Polo would fit. Awaiting to see something similar fitted by other Rapid TSI users. Last edited by Altocumulus : 22nd December 2020 at 00:24.
	() Thanks

27th December 2020, 20:13	#36
aeyjay Newbie Join Date: Dec 2020 Location: Mumbai Posts: 13 Thanked: 45 Times	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Congratulations TurboGuy, I find this color combination on the Rapid to be most desirable one. This is my first post on TeamBHP, got my membership approved today. I took Rapid AT test drive last week and find the new turbo TSI engine to be cautious but builds up the speed with ease. I am looking for a good AT mostly for city drive and find the Rapid too tempting for its sheer build quality (just that I couldn’t get convinced with the build quality of some of the other cars in this range). I liked Onyx with its 16 inch alloys (about +20k plus over Ambition with 15 inch alloys) and black grill; however, Skoda doesn't have any stock and will only get a update about the availability in early 2021. Plus with launch of Vision around March, I am a bit confused if should wait for the launch. All that being said, I am still hesitant to go for the Rapid just based on the legacy of Skoda after sales in Mumbai despite its new service and warranty package.
	(1) Thanks

28th December 2020, 07:50	#38
itwasntme Distinguished - BHPian Join Date: May 2007 Location: BANGALORE Posts: 7,726 Thanked: 14,180 Times View My Garage	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Lovely black interiors. Somehow, Skoda does it better than VW. That steering wheel is yummy and the seat fabric & fitting are just right. I'd say use as is for 3/4 years, and then go for a art leather interior from a reputed guy like Karlsson. Also consider a set of Kagu mats and a metallic pedal cover set. Last edited by itwasntme : 28th December 2020 at 08:04.
	(3) Thanks

30th December 2020, 11:48	#41
wildnomad0312 Newbie Join Date: Jan 2017 Location: Bangalore Posts: 9 Thanked: 72 Times	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Took delivery of my Skoda Rapid Onyx MT Lapiz Blue last Wednesday. I somehow find the headlights brightness to inadequate for my usage. Could use some suggestions regarding suitable bulbs to replace the stock ones. I would require a good bright white light, with good throw, but at the same time, would not want to blind the oncoming driver. If someone could suggest good bulbs and the configurations, to support the above, it would be great. Thanks in advance.
	(4) Thanks

27th January 2021, 18:30	#44
pavi BANNED Join Date: Sep 2018 Location: Cochin Posts: 1,062 Thanked: 2,063 Times View My Garage	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Congratulations on your new car. A wonderful turn of events have resulted in me owning a white Rapid Monte Carlo and my brother a red one. Both are manual transmissions and I just loved driving the car. The TSI engine, coupled with a good transmission and a great chasis is making my drives highly enjoyable. Thanks to you for providing us the knowledge that 'Monte carlo can be delivered with RCD system'. We did not opt for android head unit, by sharing your ownership review to the sales guy.
	(1) Thanks

28th March 2021, 00:46	#45
Zenboi Newbie Join Date: Mar 2021 Location: Bengaluru Posts: 12 Thanked: 11 Times	Re: Review: Skoda Rapid Monte Carlo 1.0L TSI – A Little Beast! Hey, Nice Review and congrats on your purchase. I am contemplating to buy the Kushaq. I understand that it would share the exact same 1.0L TSI unit as other VAG cars. I had recently test driven 2 turbo petrol cars (Nexon and Kiger) and found the extended throttle actuation during upshifts (delayed reduction in engine speed even when fully depressed) very annoying. I understand from a friend that it's a feature in all BS6 cars as OEMs map the throttle so that it reduces the amount of unburnt fuel/carbon in the exhaust when the throttle is abruptly cut during upshifting. Is that manifested on the rapid too? How do you find it/cope with it?
	() Thanks