Skoda Roomster

   The Skoda Roomster is a mini MPV produced since 2006. Production of this car still continues.

   There are a number of engine to choose from. Skoda Roomster is powered by Volkswagen engines. The 1.4-liter petrol sells best, however it's acceleration do not impresses. The star buy would be the 1.9-liter turbodiesel. It is pricier than other models, but delivers strong pull and has plenty of urge in reserve. Furthermore it is cheap to run.

   The Skoda Roomster has a higher roofline comparing with conventional hatchbacks. It has more body roll, but it is far from being excessive. Roomster has a compliant ride. Furthermore light steering makes it easy to maneuver in tight city streets, while it copes well on faster roads. Handling is safe and predictable.

   Smaller engines of the Skoda Roomster need to be worked hard, and tend to get boomy at high revs and on the motorway too. More powerful engines are quieter when cruising, however they still sound coarse under acceleration. Wind noise is well contained, however some road noise in present over the coarse roads.

   The Skoda Roomster is competitively priced comparing even with bigger minivans. Running costs are reasonable, while Skodas typically hold their value at least not worse than average. It uses many of the Volkswagen mechanics, so reliability shouldn't be an issue.

   Interior of the Roomster is not as exciting as the exterior, however it still looks smart and everything feels built-to-last. Dash is well laid out.

   Driving position is comfortable. Steering wheel and driver's seat have both way adjustments, while the seat can also be adjusted for height. Unfortunately forward visibility could be better, as the front pillars are thick and also it is hard to determine where the nose ends.

   The Skoda Roomster has two full-size rear seats, with a slimmer one in between. Rear seats can be reclined, folded or removed. Furthermore only a center seat can be taken out and outer ones can be moved inward, to give more shoulder room. The rear seats can slide back to achieve the best balance of boot space and legroom. The boot is large and well shaped.

   The Skoda Roomster comes with twin front and side airbags. Unfortunately curtain airbags are optional. However even the base model managed to get a maximum 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating for passengers safety. On the security list deadlocks are standard. The entry-level model misses out an alarm though.

   The base trim Skoda Roomster comes with front electric windows and CD player. Unfortunately it misses out rear speakers and remote locking. Move up a trim and you will get alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric door mirrors. Top of the range models are fitted with cruise control and panoramic sunroof.

   Advantages: The Skoda Roomster has a spacious cabin. The rear seats are very versatile and there is a big boot. Well made and competitively priced car. Good crash tests results.

   Disadvantages: Noisy engines. You can't fully hide boot contents.

   Verdict: Very practical and individual looking car.

   Also consider: Peugeot 1007, Renault Modus.