trunk ŠKODA Rapid the second generation is one of the key arguments in favor of this car. The Czech manufacturer traditionally pays special attention to practicality, and 550 liter trunk in the basic configuration is a clear confirmation of this. But in reality the possibilities Rapid 2 much wider: there are hidden compartments, smart interior transformation and even unique cargo securing system Simply Clever, which not all owners know about.
In this article we will analyze not only the official characteristics, but also the real ones. life hacks to increase space, nuances of folding seats, and also compare Rapid with class competitors. If you are planning a purchase or are already an owner, here you will find answers to questions that are not covered in showrooms.
Official characteristics of the trunk of the ŠKODA Rapid 2
According to technical documentation, trunk volume ŠKODA Rapid 2 (body NH3) is:
- 📦 550 liters — with rear seats raised (according to VDA standard)
- 🪑 1,470 liters — with seats folded (60:40)
- 📏 1,020 mm — width between wheel arches
- 📐 930 mm — length of the loading compartment (to the seat backs)
These figures look impressive compared to competitors: for example, Volkswagen Polo the trunk is 100 liters smaller, and Hyundai Solaris - 80 liters. However, the actual capacity depends on cargo shapes and ability to use space. For example, tall objects (up to 80 cm) will only fit when the seats are folded, but to transport skis or snowboards you will have to use special roof mounts.
- Every day
- 1-2 times a week
- Only when traveling
- It's always empty nearby
Transformation secrets: how to fold seats and increase space
Rear seat folding system Rapid 2 implemented according to the scheme 60:40, but many owners do not know about two levels of adjustment:
- Partial folding: The seat backrest tilts forward to form a level surface with the trunk floor. Suitable for transporting long loads (for example, furniture from IKEA).
- Full folding: the backrest is recessed into a niche, increasing the volume to 1,470 liters. In this case, the loading height is reduced to 60 cm.
To fold the seats, follow these steps:
Pull the lever on the back of the seat (located on the side)|Lift the seat cushion up until it clicks|Fold the backrest forward or recess it into the niche|Secure the seat belts so they do not dangle-->
Important nuance: with seats fully folded the length of the loading compartment reaches 1,780 mm, but at the same time a flat floor is not formed — a step 10 cm high remains. To level it, you can use trunk organizer ŠKODA (article 3U6061150) or a homemade plywood insert.
What happens if you don't fasten your seat belts?
When the seats are folded down, loose belts can get caught in the door locking mechanism or block access to hidden compartments. In some cases, this triggers the door sensor on the dashboard.
Hidden compartments and Simply Clever system
One of the key advantages ŠKODA Rapid 2 - this is Simply Clever system, which includes several useful luggage rack solutions:
| element | Description | Usefulness (1-5) |
|---|---|---|
| Double bottom | Removable floor with niche for storing small items (depth 12 cm) | 5 |
| Bag hooks | 4 fastenings on the sides of the trunk (load capacity up to 5 kg each) | 4 |
| Grid organizer | Removable net for securing cargo (item no. 3U6061160A) |
3 |
| Backlight | LED lamp with trunk lid opening sensor | 5 |
Few people know, but under the trunk floor there is additional compartment 15 cm deep, which is ideal for storing:
- 🔧 Tire repair kit (if there is no re-rolling kit)
- 🧴 Car chemicals (washers, antifreeze in small cans)
- 📄 Documents for the car (in a waterproof bag)
- 🔋 Starter or compressor
Professional advice: if you often transport dirty things (for example, after a summer residence), use rubber mat ŠKODA (article 3U6061130) with sides. It not only protects the skin, but also has drainage holes for water drainage.
Comparison with competitors: who offers more?
In the segment Class B liftbacks ŠKODA Rapid 2 occupies a leading position in terms of trunk volume, but let's look at the real numbers:
| Model | Volume (l) with seats up | Volume (l) with seats folded | Width between arches (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ŠKODA Rapid 2 | 550 | 1 470 | 1 020 |
| Volkswagen Polo | 460 | 1 405 | 980 |
| Hyundai Solaris | 470 | 1 420 | 990 |
| KIA Rio | 480 | 1 410 | 1 000 |
| Renault Logan | 510 | 1 510 | 1 010 |
At first glance, Renault Logan overtakes Rapid in volume with the seats folded, but there is a catch: the French car has less convenient trunk shape — high loading threshold (75 cm versus 68 cm for ŠKODA) and narrow openings. In addition, in Rapid 2 flat bottom without protrusions, which simplifies the transportation of large cargo.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing between ŠKODA Rapid and Volkswagen Polo pay attention to width between wheel arches. The difference is 40 mm (1,020 mm for Rapid versus 980 mm Polo) can be critical when transporting European pallets or wide boxes.
How to protect the trunk from damage?
Trunk trim ŠKODA Rapid 2 It is made of durable plastic, but even it does not last forever. Here 5 proven methods protect it from scratches and dirt:
- 🛡️ Rubber mat (original or universal, for example, from WeatherTech)
- 🧵 Textile cover with water-repellent impregnation (suitable for transporting animals)
- 📦 Plastic trays for separate storage of goods (for example,
Organizer Boxfrom ŠKODA) - 🧴 Protective film (vinyl or polyurethane, applied to thresholds)
- 🔧 Aluminum trims on the thresholds (protect from chips during loading)
If you frequently transport heavy objects (such as bags of cement or tools), pay attention to load capacity of trunk floor - it makes up up to 200 kg of evenly distributed load. Exceeding this limit may cause deformation of the seat backrests.
Before a long trip with a fully loaded trunk, check the pressure in the rear tires - it should be 0.2 bar higher than recommended (indicated on the sticker in the doorway).
Tuning and accessories for the trunk
For those for whom standard solutions are not enough, there are a lot of accessories for upgrading the trunk ŠKODA Rapid 2:
- 🔌 12V socket in the trunk (item
3U6971801) - allows you to connect a refrigerator or vacuum cleaner - 💡 Additional LED lighting (for example, tape Osram LEDriving with motion sensor)
- 🔒 Electric trunk lock (for remote opening from a key fob)
- 📦 Drawer organizer (installed instead of the spare wheel)
- 🚴 Bike rack (for example, Thule Velocompact)
One of the most popular tuning projects is installation separate trunk with compartments for tools. For this you can use:
- Ready solutions from ŠKODA Original (series
Simply Clever Box) - Universal boxes from Sortimo or Bott
- Homemade structures made of plywood or plastic (drawings are available on the forums SkodaClub.ru)
Cost of equipment varies from 3,000 rubles (rubber mat) to 50,000 rubles (full set of organizers + lighting + socket). When choosing accessories, pay attention to compatible with NH3 body - some details from the first generation Rapid don't fit.
Common problems and their solutions
Despite the reliability of the design, the owners ŠKODA Rapid 2 sometimes they encounter problems with the trunk:
⚠️ Attention: If you hear a creaking or knocking sound when opening the trunk, it most likely requires hinge lubrication. Use silicone grease (for example, Liqui Moly Silicon-Spray) - it does not attract dust and works at temperatures from -40°C.
| Problem | Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Trunk won't close | Dirt getting into the lock or drive wear | Cleaning and lubricating the lock, replacing the microswitch (part number 3U6827501) |
| Creak when moving | Friction of cargo on plastic panels | Installation of anti-squeak pads or rubber mat |
| Water in the trunk | Clogged drain holes or damaged seal | Cleaning the drainage (under the rear bumper) or replacing the seal (3U6837151) |
| Backlight doesn't work | Fuse F42 (10A) or lamp has blown | Replacing the fuse or LED lamp (N10323101) |
If the trunk won't open with the button on the key, check:
- Battery charge in the key fob (replace with
CR2032) - fuse
F36(10A) in the block under the steering wheel - Menu settings
MAXIDOT(itemCentral locking → Trunk settings)
Regularly (once every 6 months) check the condition of the trunk seal - its wear leads not only to water ingress, but also to increased noise in the cabin at speeds over 100 km/h.
FAQ: Answers to popular questions
Is it possible to install a towbar on the ŠKODA Rapid 2 and how will this affect the trunk?
Yes, on Rapid 2 you can install a towbar (for example, Bosal or Westfalia). It is attached to the side members and does not reduce the trunk volume, but reduces the maximum load on the rear axle by 50 kg. You will also need to disable Parktronic (if installed) as the sensors will trigger the hitch.
How much cargo can be carried with the seats folded down?
With seats fully folded, maximum cargo dimensions are:
- Length: 1,780 mm (from rear bumper to front seatbacks)
- Width: 1,020 mm (between arches), 1,450 mm (maximum width)
- Height: 800 mm (to the ceiling), but taking into account the hatch - up to 700 mm
For comparison: a standard European pallet (1200×800 mm) is placed only diagonally.
How to properly transport a dog in the trunk of the Rapid 2?
For transporting animals it is recommended:
- Use safety net (article
3U6061170) so that the dog cannot jump into the cabin. - Lay down waterproof mat (for example, PetLoader).
- Pin drinking bowl on the side panel (you can use hooks Simply Clever).
- Provide ventilation - open windows slightly or use
climate control.
⚠️ Do not leave your animal in a closed car even for 10 minutes - the temperature in the trunk rises to +50°C in 20 minutes.
What to do if there is a smell of gasoline in the trunk?
The smell of gasoline in the trunk Rapid 2 usually associated with:
- Leaking fuel tank (located under the rear seat).
- Canister valve malfunction (error code
P0441). - Gasoline getting on the gas tank flap seal (for example, when overflowing).
Contact service immediately if the smell is accompanied by decreasing fuel level or Check Engine on the dashboard.
What accessories for the Rapid 2 trunk can you make yourself?
Here are some ideas for homemade tuning:
- Organizer made of plastic boxes (for example, IKEA SAMLA), fixed to the rails.
- Pull-out table made of plywood (attached to the backs of folded seats).
- Magnetic tool holders (installed on metal parts of the body).
- Removable partition from PVC pipes and fabric (for separating loads).
On the forum SkodaClub.ru yes detailed instructions with drawings and photos.