With BS6 emission norms coming into force, there are a slew of launches in the C-sedan segment. While VW Vento and Skoda Rapid have come with updated engine and transmission options, Hyundai Verna has walked into showrooms in a mid-life facelift avatar. We compare these three offerings in this spec-comparison review to find which one deserves your hard-earned money.
Engine and transmission: Hyundai has provided prospective buyers with 3 engine options to choose from – 1.5-liter naturally aspirated MPI (115PS/144Nm, 6-speed manual/IVT Automatic) and 1.0-liter Kappa GDI Turbocharged petrol engines (120PS/172Nm, 7-speed DCT) and 1.5-liter U2 CRDI diesel engine (115PS/250Nm, 6-speed manual/6-speed torque converter).
There is no such luxury of choice available with Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Rapid as both these cars are offered only with a single petrol engine option – 1.0-liter TSI turbocharged petrol. The output produced by this gasoline engine in both Vento and Rapid is 110PS and 175Nm although transmission options differ a bit. VW Vento features a 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter while Skoda Rapid has got a 6-speed manual or 7-speed torque converter unit.
Dimensional parity: New Hyundai has edge over the rivals as it offers the widest and tallest cabin in addition to providing the longest wheelbase of 2600 mm. Vento, on the other hand, comes with class-best 494-liter of the boot while Rapid has the smallest 460 liters of trunk.
Feature and Equipment: In terms of features, Hyundai Verna again comes on top by offering connected car technology, electric sunroof, LED headlight, and wireless phone charging. It also offers both front and rear parking camera, 6 airbags, paddle shifters, tire pressure monitoring system, none of which is available on VW Vento or Skoda Rapid.
Pricing: VW Vento and Skoda Rapid come in a total of four and five variants respectively. VW has priced Vento at a premium with range starting at Rs 8.86 and going all the way to the 13.29 lakh. Skoda Rapid, on the other hand, can be had in the range of Rs 7.49- 11.79 lakh. Hyundai Verna comes in total of four variants and starts at Rs 9.15 lakh for the base 1.5-litre petrol variant. The turbocharged petrol variant costs Rs 13.99 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom).
In the end, the petrol Vento and Rapid do make more sense as you get better dynamic package, a renowned turbocharged petrol motor with TSi technology with automatic and manual gearboxes and at a various prices points to choose. All of that and a more spacious cabin making the VW and Skoda twins a complete enthusiast car that can be used as a family car too.
