Skoda Roomster In Detail

Skoda Roomster in Geneva

World Premiere at Geneva

March 1, 2006 5:14 AM
Filed Under: German, Skoda

Press Release

Skoda Roomster Makes its World Premiere at the 76th Geneva Motor Show

READY FOR THE SPACE RACE

Škoda Auto is one of the oldest car manufacturers in the world. In 1895, the founders of the company, Laurin and Klement, set up a factory in Mladá Boleslav where they initially manufactured bicycles, followed shortly by motorcycles before, in 1905, the first car rolled off the production lines. Today, the brand is seen as a modern automobile manufacturer, active in all fields of vehicle production – development, production and sales – at the highest international level, providing vehicles of exceptional performance, quality and safety.

A new era is beginning for Škoda Auto in 2006. The model range is expanding to four with the addition of a completely new design. The newest member of the Škoda family bears the name Roomster, which makes it unmistakably clear what claim the new car makes: the five-door car with a length of 4205 millimetres not only offers generous and above-average levels of space for passengers and luggage, it also has extraordinary interior flexibility. Its unique space concept and fresh design brings new ideas to the lower medium hatch segment, as well as to the compact MPV segment, providing a completely new dimension.

Highlights of the Škoda Roomster in overview:

SIMPLY CLEVER: THE FOURTH MODEL RANGE FROM ŠKODA PROVIDES THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF VERSATILITY

FAMILY-FRIENDLY, SPACIOUS CARS ARE A TRADITION AT ŠKODA

The Škoda Roomster is driving into a new dimension – literally. Škoda Auto’s three existing ranges; Fabia, Octavia and Superb are set to be complemented by the arrival of a unique and totally original fourth model range. The history of "space vehicles" dates back to the very first days of the Czech brand some one hundred years ago. In 1907, two years after car production started in Mladá Boleslav, the spacious Type F was created, which, as a result of the exceptional space it offered, was employed in Vienna and Paris as a spacious taxi.

The development of the Roomster concept car, shown at the IAA in Frankfurt three years ago, represented a special challenge for Škoda Auto. Even at the concept stage, the form and proportions of the Roomster met with widespread approval. One of the main reasons for this was the strong exterior design – the Roomster conveys its inner values outwards and, in doing so, also displays its identity for all to see.

A CAR FOR EVERYONE: VERSATILITY AS A VIRTUE

The Škoda Roomster joins an acclaimed range of cars that have become known for their strength, exceptional reliability and unrivalled value for money. The Škoda Roomster continues these virtues. With the Roomster, the engineers and designers at Mladá Boleslav have created a truly special concept. The Roomster follows the lines of a compact MPV but differs from its competitors in this expanding segment thanks to its unconventional design. Despite measuring just 4205 millimetres in length, the Roomster has a boot volume of between 450 and 530 litres, which is among the largest in the class. In addition, passengers enjoy a high degree of comfort and safety.

MAKING SPACE DO THE WORK: THE ROOMSTER CONCEPT

To maximise the available interior space, the design team at Škoda created two different areas within the cabin. The front zone is designed to cater for the needs of the driver – a "driving room" with a clearly laid-out dashboard, ergonomically designed instruments and operating controls as well as comfortable seats, which can be adjusted exactly to suit one.

The rear of the Roomster’s cabin is the car’s "living room" – a spacious and versatile living space for passengers. Large side windows seating, which is 46 millimetres higher than those in the front, and the innovative VarioFlex seating system combine to make it possible to configure the rear at will. The middle seat armrest can be folded forward and used as a storage compartment, and the whole seat, which weighs eleven kilograms, can also be removed completely. The two outer seats can then be pushed inwards by 110 millimetres, creating a four-seater layout with increased shoulder room and seating comfort. The outer rear seats can be slid forward and back by 150 millimetres. Headroom for rear seat passengers is an exceptional 1009 millimetres, while the angles of the seat backs in the rear can be adjusted individually by 13.5 degrees.

Flexibility is the exceptional characteristic of the Škoda Roomster’s boot. At 450 to 530 litres with the rear seats in use, the Roomster sets a record for its class. By folding down the rear seats, a completely level loading space is created with a maximum load length of 1022 millimetres. Using the VarioFlex system to the full, the load capacity increases to 1555 litres.

The rear seats can be folded forward, enabling the size of the loading segment to be adapted according to requirements. The two outer seats in the rear can also be removed completely, something which can also be done effortlessly and extremely quickly. In this configuration, the Roomster is converted into a two-seater and has a loading volume of 1780 litres. The heavy-duty luggage cover can be fastened at two different heights to divide the load area. Heavy articles can be securely fixed by eyelets in the boot.

The large rear tailgate opens upwards and uses hinges set some centimetres into the roof surface area. The result is a load aperture that is increased considerably in size, allowing even bulky objects to be inserted with ease. The smooth side walls and the flat floor make it possible to utilise the storage space in the most effective manner. Additional storage compartments are located above the wheel housing. In the front, Roomster passengers benefit from further storage solutions in the form of door compartments that are big enough to hold large bottles. The cubby hole in the middle console and the pockets on the backs of the front seats offer additional storage possibilities for small change, toll cards, beakers for drinks, magazines or maps. Two large glove compartments provide extra room for valuable articles. In versions equipped with air conditioning, the lower of the two compartments has a cooling air flow.

COMPLETELY FRESH AND ORIGINAL: THE EXTERIOR DESIGN

The innovative exterior design of the Škoda Roomster reflects the forward thinking that typifies the interior. The dynamic front section is characterised by the new radiator grille with a large chrome surround and more pronounced ribs. The clear glass headlights are drawn well back into the wings, creating a powerful line that continues to the B pillar. Halogen projector headlights, which ensure excellent illumination, give the Roomster a self-assured and stylish appearance. Air intake vents in the middle and at each side of the large front bumper give the Škoda Roomster a strong road presence, while front fog lamps (standard on some models and optional elsewhere) complete the visual package. The windscreen and side windows have a pillar-less appearance, thanks to the use of a black A-pillar. This creates a single, harmonious window line that wraps around the front of the car.

The rear differs from the front of the car, with deep set windows, which stretch up towards the roof surface. This gives passengers in the rear an excellent view and, in addition, floods the interior with light. This "panorama" effect is of particular value for families. Experience has shown that children become bored when they can see nothing of the landscape.

When the rear windows are opened, the glass remains comfortably above the lower sill of the window, which minimises the chances of toys and other objects falling out. The large rear doors make getting in and out easy and comfortable. In the rear, the high roofline reinforces the Roomster’s load-carrying ability, while the slim, crescent-shaped rear lights are positioned high up on the D pillar. When the lights are switched on, a C-shaped area is illuminated – a characteristic feature of the Škoda Octavia and the Octavia Estate. Even in the dark, the Roomster is clearly recognisable from behind as a member of the Škoda family.

POWER AND ECONOMY TO SUIT ALL REQUIREMENTS: THE ENGINES

Three petrol and three diesel engines are offered for the Roomster. The petrol range starts with a 1.2-litre three cylinder, 12 valve petrol engine developed by Škoda Auto at Mladá Boleslav. It generates 47 kW (64 bhp), and produces a maximum of 112 Nm torque at 3000 rpm. Further up the performance range sits a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 63 kW (86 bhp) producing 126 Nm torque at 3300 rpm. The most powerful petrol engine available is a 1.6 litre petrol unit with 77 kW (105 bhp) and 155 Nm torque at 3500 rpm.

The diesel line-up consists of two 1.4-litre engines and a 1.9-litre. The 1.4-litre, three-cylinder engine is offered with two power outputs – 51 and 59 kW (70/80 bhp) while their torque maximums are 155 and 195 Nm at 1600-2800 rpm and 2200 rpm respectively. The most powerful diesel engine is the 77 kW (105 bhp), four-cylinder model from the 1.9 litre family. It generates a powerful 240 Nm at a mere 1800 rpm, making the Roomster a class-leader as far as overtaking flexibility is concerned. In fifth gear, the Roomster can accelerate between 80-120 kph (50-70 mph) in just 12.9 seconds. In fourth gear, the same test can be completed in only 10.4 seconds.

Depending on the engine, the Roomster reaches a top speed of between 155 and 184 km/h. 0 to 100 km/h times vary from 16.9 seconds (1.2 12V HTP) to 10.9 seconds (1.6 16V, manual transmission). All engines meet EU 4 exhaust emission standards. The 1.4 litre diesel engine with 59 kW and the 1.9 litre engine with 77 kW are also supplied with diesel particle filters. The fuel tank has a 55 litre capacity.

All engines are linked to a manual five-speed gearbox as standard. A six-gear automatic transmission will be available as an option from September onwards.

LIFE ON THE ROAD: THE CHASSIS

The Škoda Roomster has a modular platform and combines existing assemblies to form a unique chassis. The wheelbase measures 2617 millimetres, 39 millimetres more than the Octavia Estate. The extension of the wheelbase was necessary in order to give the Roomster its remarkably spacious interior.

Depending on the version, wheels of up to 16" in size will be fitted. In terms of suspension design, McPherson struts are utilised at the front while there is a lightweight semi-independent layout. Thanks to this innovative solution a load volume of up to 515 kg can be reached.

ABS (anti-lock braking system) with MSR (torque moment regulation) is standard, while M-ABS (with anti-spin regulation) and the electronic stability program (ESP) are options. The neutral driving set-up of the Roomster and the high levels of passive and active safety features make travelling in the Roomster a pleasurable and safe experience.

The Roomster’s chassis makes for exceptional stability. Different track widths also help to provide excellent levels of body control through corners. At the front, the distance between the wheels is 1436 millimetres while the track width at the rear is 1500 millimetres. The low weight of the Škoda Roomster further enhances its driving credentials. Kerbweights range from 1150 to 1345 kilograms, depending on the version. The maximum payload is 515 kilograms. All Roomster models are equipped with electro-hydraulic power-assisted steering, and a combination of a tight 10.5 metre turning circle and an unobstructed view from the driving seat makes manoeuvring and parking simple.

A SOLID PIECE OF WORK: THE SAFETY

It is comforting to know that the safety levels of the Škoda Roomster make it a friend of the family. Front and side airbags protect the occupants in the case of an accident. Seat belt tensioners also go into action when needed. The upper mounting point of the 3-point seat belts is height adjustable and the same applies to the headrests in the front and rear. In the rear, all of the passengers are also secured by 3-point seat belts. In addition, the two outer rear seats are equipped with Isofix connections.

The Roomster is the first car in its class to offer active curve and cornering lights. When driving in the dark, the main headlights follow the angle of direction of the front wheels, illuminating the road ahead and providing the driver with a wide-angled view. This ability to see around corners allows drivers to spot hazards much earlier than with conventional headlamps. When turning a corner the area next to the front bumper is widely illuminated making it easier to recognise pedestrians or cyclists. Curve and cornering lighting depends on the trim level chosen or is available as an option.

The Roomster also protects pedestrians, in the event of an accident. Its body has been designed from the beginning to comply with the regulations for the protection of pedestrians which will come into effect in 2010. In the case of collisions with pedestrians, the soft, deforming bonnet and decoupling elements of the front end greatly reduce the possibility of severe head injuries.

The bodywork structure of the Roomster is designed in such a way that in the case of a collision with other vehicles, defined load bearing paths spread the energy generated in a controlled manner, leading these into the assemblies in the floor of the vehicle. The front part of the car can deform in a clearly defined manner; the interior space remains a survival space for the passengers. In all internal crash tests, the biomechanical loads upon the occupants have remained far below the prescribed values. The Škoda Roomster is protected against theft by an immobiliser, and in addition, the vehicle identification number (VIN) is laser engraved on all of the windows of the vehicle so that the origin and proper owner of the Roomster can be quickly determined if it is stolen.

THAT EXTRA BIT OF CAR: EQUIPMENT

The Škoda Roomster continues the tradition of offering that "extra bit of car". In addition to offering unbeatable value for money, the Roomster is fitted with numerous creature comforts and luxuries which enhance the feel-good factor.

The exterior mirrors can, depending on the model, be adjusted manually or electrically from the inside. Reading lamps in the front and rear in the roof provide additional illumination while the main cabin lighting can be programmed to include a time delay. If the Roomster is ordered without manual air conditioning (Climatic) or automatic air conditioning system (Climatronic), a pollen filter cleans the air drawn in from outside before it flows into the interior. In addition, all Roomster models have a steering wheel which is adjustable for both height and reach – a feature still rare in this class. A line-in connection on the audio system allows owners to plug in iPods or other MP3 players. Power for a mobile phone or laptop computer is supplied by a 12 V socket in the centre console. An additional 12 V socket is also fitted in the boot. And, so that there are no permanent traces left when bulky, wieldy and heavy goods are loaded, the loading bay edge is finished with a tough and durable cover. All vehicles are equipped with a boot cover which can be fastened in place at two different heights. Naturally, the VarioFlex seating system is also on board. The intelligent net system for securing loads and the practical hooks for hanging shopping bags to the side walls of the boot is offered as an optional extra in the Roomster.

On higher trim levels, namely Comfort, Sport and Style, electric front windows, a central locking system with remote control and a height-adjustable driver’s seat are fitted as standard. These models also feature colour-matched bumpers, mirror housings and door handles. Entry-level models are fitted with 14" wheels and 170/70 R14 tyres, while the other levels are equipped with larger, 15" wheels. Every Roomster is equipped with a full-size spare wheel.

SIMPLY CLEVER: INNOVATIVE ROOMSTER OPTIONS

Škoda Auto has developed a whole range of special options for the Roomster. The panoramic glass sunroof bathes the interior with light, and if the sun shines too brightly the glass roof can be closed by the blinds.

The generous interior measurements of the Roomster make it possible to transport mountain bikes upright in the rear. Škoda Auto has specially designed a bicycle holder for this purpose which holds the bike securely in place. This prevents damage occurring to both the bicycle and the interior of the vehicle.

The Roomster can be kept on the right path by means of a new satellite navigation system. As an attractive alternative there is also the mobile Navigation "Via Michelin". Various audio units and a line in input for an MP3 player or other external source are also available.

WHERE TRADITION BECOMES MODERNITY

The Roomster is produced at the Škoda Kvasiny factory. This production facility, rich in tradition, has been used by the brand for "the manufacture of vehicles since 1947. In the 1930s, Jawa cars were built there. The Jawa 700 and the Jawa Minor were produced before the Second World War. In 1947 production of the Škoda Superb started in Kvasiny. In the nineteen-fifties, a small series of the Roadster 1101 and the Škoda 1200 were built and at the beginning of the 1960s the sporting Felicia range began to roll off the lines. Following a thorough refurbishment of the buildings and a complete change in production, the production of today’s Škoda Superb began in Kvasiny in 2002. In the future, two cars, which are as different as they are exceptional, will share a single heritage: the top class model with the classical form and a name steeped in tradition and the new range of the Roomster, with which the brand is treading completely new ground. In June 2006, the Škoda Roomster will begin to roll off the production line.