Unlike the headline, there’s no hidden meaning in the content of this story. Alongside Karoq, Skoda has commenced accepting bookings for the BS6-compliant (Bharat Stage 6) Rapid sedan as well. The minimum booking amount is Rs 50,000. If you are one amongst the interested, head over to the nearest authorised dealership and deposit the amount. Skoda confirms that deliveries shall commence from April 14, 2020.

At this year’s Auto Expo, Skoda had showcased the BS6-ready Rapid. Unfortunately, it didn’t receive the attention it deserved because of all other Skodas that were on display. To gain the BS6 status, the Rapid has adopted the same recipe as the Volkswagen Vento. Gone are the diesel-fed variants, the 1.6-litre TSI engine and the DSG. To take their place is a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder TSI mill that produces 108bhp/175Nm. For transmission duties, you can either choose a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter (automatic).

In terms of design, the upgraded Rapid range will look broadly the same as the BSIV-compliant models. In the features department, the sedan will pack a new (and hopefully larger) infotainment system. The rest of the package will include a multifunction steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, a rear-view camera, cruise control, LED DRLs, 16-inch alloy wheels, dual airbags, rear parking sensors and electrically operated ORVMs.

One ace that the Rapid (and even its step-sibling, the Volkswagen Vento) has had continuously up its sleeve is the excellent built quality. Compared to its arch-rivals, like the Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Toyota Yaris and the Hyundai Verna, the Skoda always came on top in terms of fit and finish. That said, we’ve got a refreshed Verna coming in a few weeks, followed by the all-new City. Will the petrol-only Rapid have enough charm to disrupt the forces in the segment?