2017 Skoda Rapid revealed

Skoda has unveiled its updated Rapid hatchback, featuring revised exterior styling, an upgraded interior and a host of new technologies, with Australian launch set for September this year.

As well as confirming the third quarter arrival, Skoda Australia PR boss Paul Pottinger said there are expectations the new Rapid will be more competitive against its Toyota Corolla and Mazda3 rivals.

Since its launch in 2014, the Czech-built hatch has struggled in the local small car market having sold only 367 examples last year, which represented an 18.1 per cent decrease on its 2015 efforts.

Meanwhile, Australia's most popular segment was headlined in the 2016 sales charts by the Corolla (40,330), Hyundai i30 (37,772) and Mazda3 (36,107).

Better equipment levels – including an expanded suite of driver safety and assistance technologies –  will help set the Rapid apart from its competitors.

An always-on internet connection is provided by a SIM card on-board.

A new front fascia – which helps separate the facelifted hatchback from the model it replaces – is distinguished by a redesigned lower bumper, restyled fog lights, automatic bi-Xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights.

Rear end changes extend to black-tinted tail-lights and an extended rear window, while new alloy wheel designs that range in size from 15 to 17 inches will be available across the line-up.

An always-on internet connection is provided by a SIM card on-board, which allows passengers to access a wireless hotspot via their smartphones and tablets when on the move.

Owners will also be able to remotely access vehicle information – such as parking location, fuel capacity and locking status – thanks to its wireless capabilities.

Extending this even further is Skoda Connect, an internet services feature that offers real-time traffic alerts, fuel pricing, news, weather and even parking availability.

However, the Rapid's internet features are not certain starters for Australia due to possible compatibility issues, but Mr Pottinger says they have been requested for the local product.

Electronic stability control, auto emergency braking, tyre-pressure monitoring, driver fatigue detection, six airbags and hill-climb assist highlight the Rapid's safety revisions.

Overseas markets will see the upgraded Rapid arrive with a new 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, as well as the existing 1.4-litre petrol and turbo-diesel units, but the local version will continue to be offered with only one powertrain, according to Mr Pottinger.

Power outputs for the carry over 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder are yet to be confirmed, but the existing engine produced 81kW when paired with a manual gearbox or 92kW with the dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Volkswagen's recent mid-life update of its platform-sharing Golf range also maintained the 1.4-litre powerplant, but its power output rose from the previously entry-level 92kW to 110kW – which may pave the way for a Rapid power bump.

More information on the updated Rapid will be released during its official reveal at the Geneva motor show – which starts on March 7 – with Australian specifications to be confirmed closer to its local release.

Would you consider buying a Skoda over its platform-sharing Volkswagen equivalent? Tell us what you think in the comments below.