Skoda Australia has re-launched the Skoda Roomster which was first seen in Australia back in 2007. Skoda has kept the core values of the original Roomster but improved exterior styling, introduced a new engine and drive train, while also revamping the interior with the addition of the VarioFlex system seen in the Skoda Yeti.
Where as the previous Roomster was a little on the ugly side the new styling makes the car a lot easier on the eye. The new cleaner and more efficient 1.2 litre TSI 77 kW petrol engine delivers a better driving experience than one it replaces. The introduction of a turbocharger and direct injection, see the ŠKODA reduce CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy whist not compromising performance . The introduction of an optional DSG gearbox for the first time also helps create a neat little package.
The Roomster’s new 1.2 litre 77kW engine offers 22Nm more torque than the old 1.6 litre engine and a 1.1 L/100km improvement in combined fuel consumption and a 34g/km reduction in CO2 emissions. The engine delivers 77kW and 175Nm of torque across a rev range of 1,500 rpm to 4,100 rpm. Both the manual and DSG deliver the same CO2 emissions of 138 g/km, and fuel consumption on the combined cycle of 5.9 L/100km.
Inside sees an updated cabin has extra-wide door bins that can accommodate large drink bottles. Small elasticised fabric bands across the door pockets hold maps and paperwork securely in place. In addition, the lower glovebox compartment features a cooling airflow to keep food and drinks fresh. including soft tough plastics in the right areas. The VarioFlex seating system in the rear allows you to configure the seats in multiple ways an evens allows you to remove them completely. The VarioFlex systems let you carry loads from 450 litres all the way up to 1,780 litres with the 16 kilogram seats fully removed.
The new Skoda Roomster has some great standard features. The five star euro NCAP rated Roomster has side and curtain airbags, electric front and rear windows, black roof rails, 4-spoke multi-function leather steering wheel (including radio and telephone controls), Bluetooth phone connectivity.
The Roomster can also be optioned with any of the following, rear parking sensors, a MDI – Media Interface for phones and MP3 players, Alarm system, Front Fog lights and a array of other options.
Priced from $22,490 for the 5-speed manual and $24,790 for the 7 speed DSG, the Skoda Roomster might just be the modern day ute. It is perfect as a workhorse during the week, before putting the seats back in for the family at the weekends.
