In this edition of the comparison series, we compare two of the prominent products in the executive sedan segment, namely Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and Skoda Rapid. Now, both of these are due for an update and the current models of both these sedans have been around for a while. This makes the comparison between these two even more relevant and poised. If you are interested in other comparison posts, make sure to head to the Comparisons/Features section of Car Blog India.
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Maruti Suzuki Ciaz vs Skoda Rapid – Exteriors and Dimensions
In absence of too many updates to the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, the exterior styling and dimensions have remained pretty much the same since its inception. This includes LED Projector Headlamps, a new front grille with Chrome surrounds, LED DRLs, Chrome Housing for the LED fog lamps, sporty bumper and much more. The sides feature distinct character lines with alloy wheels and a textured window beltline. The rear houses the LED pattern taillamps, Chrome Line on the boot lid and chrome housing for the rear brake lights on the bumper. All in all, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is a decently looking car with proper sedan dimensions.
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When it comes to the looks, the Rapid is a typical Skoda in the sense that it wears the trademark butterfly Skoda grille upfront, sharp creases on the bonnet, sleek headlamps with DLRs, sporty bumpers with fog lamp housing, Stainless Steel Scuff Plates and an aggressive front-end look. On the sides, it has 16-inch alloy wheels along with characteristic lines, window chrome garnish and creases signifying its strong built. The rear has the typical taillamp unit, tailgate rear spoiler, sporty bumpers and a rear diffuser to complete the look. Although the model is not modern and updated, it still has a stylish exterior appearance.
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| Parameter | Maruti Suzuki Ciaz | Skoda Rapid |
| Length | 4490 mm | 4513 mm |
| Width | 1730 mm | 1699 mm |
| Height | 1485 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm | 2552 mm |
| Boot Space | 510 L | 460 L |
When it comes to the exterior dimensions, the Rapid is a bit longer than the Ciaz. However, the Ciaz is a fair bit wider and also has a longer wheelbase. All this translates to a more spacious interior and a bigger boot compartment. The wider cabin ensures a more comfortable space for the rear passengers.
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Maruti Suzuki Ciaz vs Skoda Rapid – Interiors, Features and Safety
The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz hosts a ton of features including a 7-inch Digital infotainment Touchscreen Display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth Connectivity, Steering mounted Controls, Coloured TFT MID Instrument Cluster for the driver, Navigation System, Voice Commands, Connected Car Tech Features, 6-speaker Audio System, Cruise Control, Automatic Climate Control, Height Adjustable Driver Seat, Pollen Filter, Footwell Lamps for the front seats, Wooden and Chrome finish at various parts inside the cabin like door handles, Leather upholstery and much more. On the safety front, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz comes equipped with Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, ISOFIX Child Seat mounts, Reverse Parking Sensors with Camera, Seat Belt Pretensioners with Force Limiters, Speed Alert System and much more.
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When it comes to interiors and features, the Skoda Rapid has some of the best quality material inside the cabin. The cabin looks like it has been built to last a lifetime and there are a ton of comfort and convenience features as well. This includes an 8-inch Digital Touchscreen Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 4-speaker Audio System, My Skoda Connected Car tech Features, Bluetooth Connectivity Features, Navigation System, Super Soft Flat Bottom Steering Wheel with Controls, Red Stitching Highlights for the sporty looks, Leatherette Upholstery, Cruise Control, Automatic Climate Control, Height Adjustable Front Seat Belts, Pollen Filter and much more. On the safety front, the Rapid comes with a Dual Airbags Setup, ABS with EBD, ESP, Rear Parking Sensors with Camera, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Hill-Start Assist and much more.
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Maruti Suzuki Ciaz vs Skoda Rapid – Engines, Transmissions and Prices
The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz comes with a sole petrol engine option. It has a 1.5-litre petrol engine making 105 PS and 138 Nm mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter. This engine is a mild hybrid system that enhances the fuel economy of the Ciaz. There is no diesel engine on offer from Maruti Suzuki across its lineup. The prices of the Ciaz range between Rs 8.52 lakh and Rs 11.50 lakh, ex-showroom.
The Skoda Rapid comes with just one petrol powertrain which is the 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol unit from VW making 110 PS of peak power and 175 Nm of peak torque. This engine can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox option. The TSI engine is known for its great driveability and is a strong point of the Rapid. The prices of the Skoda Rapid start from Rs 7.79 lakh and go all the way up to Rs 13.29 lakh, ex-showroom.
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Maruti Suzuki Ciaz vs Skoda Rapid – Verdict
It is fair to say that both these sedans offer so much in various aspects. Also, both these cars have distinct characteristics representing the DNA of their respective companies. The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is a wonderful option for those who are specific about the value-for-money aspect. It offers all the necessary comforts, features and equipment for someone who is looking to save some money. The Skoda Rapid, on the other hand, is a perfect product for someone who is a driving enthusiast. The driving dynamics and peppy engine of the Rapid will surely get you excited. If you are willing to shell out some extra for a richer cabin and driving experience, the Rapid is definitely the one you should go for.
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