Opening
Skoda Roomster MPV
The Czech automobile giant is planning to launch its multi-purpose utility vehicle in the middle of 2008. Although the feasibility study is still underway and the company has yet to decide on the achievable target, nevertheless, the crossover Roomster is all set to make its debut in the automobile scenario in India.
ON THE ROAD
Performance
The all new Skoda Roomster is expected to have 1.4 liter petrol engine which is one of the best selling engines, along with 1.2 and 1.6 liter petrol ones. On the other hand, the 1.9 liter turbo diesel readily offers strong pull and flexibility. You may also find 70 and 80 bhp 1.4 diesels. However, in India it is largely expected to inherit its1.9 liter 90 bhp diesel engine from Octavia.
Ride & handling
The light steering and tight turning circle are all ready to give a smooth ride and easy maneuverability to the driver on the packed city streets. ON faster routes, you can easily expect more predictable handling and complaint drive. The outer body is a funky mix of ample curves with BMW like flame finishing. The wheels are more outwardly pushed that gives more space to passengers and more ground clearance. You would also find a heavy top and a firmer feel of the car.
Refinement
The 1.4 liter petrol engine means more annoying booming noises on the road while on the other hand the 1.9 liter diesel similar to Octavia is more refined and docile while cruising at speed. However, the wind noise in minimal even if the road noise may filter into the cabin.
OWNERSHIP
Buying & Owning
Indian buyers are maturing to new cars in the country. However, it can be a practical choice as the cost comes to same as any other diesel powered hatchback models in its car segment. It is placed in competition with versatile super minis but the boot capacity and interiors compete with bigger cars. Skoda cars always promise value for money and with cheaper servicing and lower insurance. This makes the running costs even more economic.
Quality & Reliability
Exterior body is firmer and has better finish. However, interiors lack the adventurous looks that exterior finish carries with itself. Its all other parts have been proven in other Volkswagen cars. Skoda Roomster like all other Skoda cars ranks well in reliability and customer satisfaction as well.
Safety & security
This new hatchback model meets all safety requirements for pedestrian safety which may actually come in force somewhere in 2010. You can find ISOFIX child seat mountings for the kids and the driver gets the benefit of twin front and side airbags. If you want, you can opt to pay for curtain airbags as well.
Deadlocks are standard.
IN THE CABIN
Behind The Wheel
The two way adjustable steering as well seat that can be pulled up and down offers better driving positions to the driver. The dash is clearly laid bit forward visibility could have been better. You may also need added parking skills as the windscreen pillars are astonishingly thicker than usual which makes it difficult to see the nose.
Space & Practicality
Skoda Roomster has usual two full-sized seats in the rear with a slimmer one in the middle. Surprisingly, all three can not only be inclined but can also be removed. However, you may find the outer seats to be a little heavier than usual. Moreover, you also have an option to remove just the middle seat to give more shoulder room to the passengers at the back. Rear seats also have option to move back and front to give more leg room options to the taller passengers sitting at the back. This also enables you to provide more luggage space.
Equipment
The all new Roomster is laden with electric front windows, music player and a socket to plug you MP3 player. However, you may miss the remote control door locking system and the rear speakers. If you move up to the more upgraded versions you would find air-conditioning, alloy wheels and electrically adjustable door mirrors. Cruise control is present in the range topping cars where as scout cars are more equipped like top trim cars.
