The new Skoda Roomster
Skoda Roomster
Skoda are trying their best to attack the compact MPV market on the Australian market, and as such they have relaunched the Roomster sporting a new engine, updated styling and even a smaller price.
The Roomster was originally introduced to Australia back in October of 2007 but it did not show the results that were expected of it, despite its $26,990 price point. The sales were quite poor, in the three years before the model was discontinued, they only sold 235 Roomsters in the entire country.
The new Roomster will be cheaper, with a starting price of $22,490, and it is hoped that it will be a much better seller than its predecessor.
It will be powered by a 77kW/175Nm 1.2-litre direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine – the same engine which powers the more well-known Skoda Fabia, and the the Volkswagen Polo and Golf. The model will come standard equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, but for an extra $2300 you can replace that with a seven-speed DSH dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Both variants feature a combined cycle fuel consumption of 5.9 litres per 100km, with the manual being slightly faster accelerating.
The standard option will include 15-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, manual AC, cruise control and a bunch of other things that are standard in most other cars, alongside an eight-speaker audio system with an auxiliary port and Bluetooth phone connectivity.
The optional features include climate control, front fog lights, mobile device interface system with USB connectivity and a couple more aesthetic choices.
The three rear seats can be individually folded flat or completely removed, thus expanding the vehicle’s cargo capacity from 450 litres to 1780 litres, almost like a van.
The standard safety package will include six airbags – dual front, side and curtains – as well as electronic stability control.
Roomster is pretty disappointing i feel, especially when we look at other MPV options in the market. Yeti SUV was also a failure. I guess Skoda is good with sedans and hatchbacks; we can not count out the lovely Fabia, can we?