Skoda Rapid Spaceback price revealed

The Skoda Rapid Spaceback is set go on sale in January next year priced from £14,430 for the entry-level 85bhp 1.2-litre TSI model in S trim. That makes it £640 more expensive than the Rapid Fastback equivalent. The range-topping 89bhp 1.6-litre TDI CR Spaceback in Elegance trim with the DSG gearbox will cost owners £18,640.

The second model in the Rapid range gets a more conventional hatchback shape than the saloon-style original, resulting in a smaller 415-litre boot capacity – the Fastback has 550 litres.

• Skoda Rapid Spaceback review

Five engines are available on the Spaceback, including 85bhp or 104bhp 1.2-litre TSI petrols and a 120bhp 1.4-litre TSI. Meanwhile, two 1.6-litre diesel engines in two states of tune – 89bhp and 104bhp – complete the line-up. Customers can opt for either a five-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearbox.

A frugal GreenLine engine is also in the final stages of development, which will be made available by the January launch. CO2 emissions of just 99g/km are expected, aided by the combination the efficient 1.6-litre diesel engine as well as low resistance rolling tyres, aerodynamic tweaks and a weight reduction. Skoda says a price for the GreenLine engine will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Designed to appeal to younger buyers than the Fastback, the Spaceback comes with a range of personalisation options, including a panoramic glass roof and extended tailgate glass. Available in three trim options, S, SE and Elegance the Spaceback is also fitted with more equipment as standard across the range, with all models benefitting from daytime running lights, electrically adjustable and heated mirrors, air conditioning, ESP and curtain airbags.

Moving up the range, SE spec adds rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, steering wheel mounted controls, 15-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, hill hold assist, trip computer and electric rear windows, with prices starting from £15,480 and rising to £18,440. Top spec Elegance models will cost owners from £16,640 to £18,900 but are fitted with bigger 16-inch alloys, climate control, aluminium look inserts, chrome interior surrounds and cornering front fog-lights.

Eco-conscious customers can also spec a GreenTech option, which is available across the entire Spaceback range. With this, Skoda will fit Stop/start and brake energy recovery systems to help improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.

Order books will open later this month ahead of the car's launch at the beginning of 2014.