The Skoda Roomster 1.2 12V, produced from 2006 to 2007, is a compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) that represented Skoda’s foray into a practical and versatile segment of the European automotive market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Roomster was designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a flexible and space-efficient vehicle. It distinguished itself with a unique asymmetrical rear door configuration and a focus on maximizing interior space within a relatively small footprint. The 1.2 12V engine variant, producing 64 horsepower, was positioned as an entry-level option, prioritizing fuel economy and affordability.
Skoda Roomster 1.2 12V: An Overview
The Roomster was conceived as a practical alternative to traditional hatchbacks and small vans, offering a blend of car-like handling and the spaciousness expected of an MPV. It shared its platform with the Volkswagen Polo, benefiting from Volkswagen Group’s engineering expertise. The asymmetrical rear door design – featuring a standard hinged door on one side and a sliding door on the other – was a key feature, intended to ease access in tight parking spaces. The Roomster aimed to provide a comfortable and adaptable interior, making it suitable for both everyday commuting and family outings.
Engine & Performance
The Skoda Roomster 1.2 12V is powered by a 1.2-liter, inline-three cylinder gasoline engine, designated the EA111 / BME. This naturally aspirated engine produces 64 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 82.61 lb.-ft. of torque at 3000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it was designed for efficiency and reliability. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 55.7 horsepower per tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 97.4 Nm per tonne. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 16.1 seconds, and 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 16.9 seconds. The top speed is limited to 155 km/h (96.31 mph). The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. Fuel economy is rated at 35.6 US mpg combined (6.6 l/100 km), with 27.4 US mpg (8.6 l/100 km) in urban driving and 42.8 US mpg (5.5 l/100 km) on the highway.
Design & Features
The Skoda Roomster is a five-door MPV with a distinctive, somewhat boxy, design. Its compact dimensions – 4205 mm in length, 1684 mm in width, and 1607 mm in height – make it relatively easy to maneuver in urban environments. The interior is designed for practicality, with a focus on maximizing space. The rear seats can be folded or even removed entirely, creating a large cargo area. With the rear seats in place, the trunk offers 450 liters (15.89 cu. ft.) of space, expanding to 1780 liters (62.86 cu. ft.) with the seats folded. The Roomster features independent suspension on both the front (McPherson strut) and rear (multi-link) axles, providing a comfortable ride. Braking is handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The vehicle rides on 14-inch wheels with 175/70 R14 tires. Safety features for the era included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) and airbags, though modern safety standards would consider these minimal. The asymmetrical rear door configuration is a defining design element, offering enhanced accessibility in confined spaces.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Roomster |
| Generation | Roomster |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 12V (64 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2006 |
| End of production | January, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 155 km/h (96.31 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 64 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 112 Nm @ 3000 rpm (82.61 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / BME |
| Engine displacement | 1198 cm3 (73.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.9 mm (3.42 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.8 l (2.96 US qt | 2.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1780 l (62.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4205 mm (165.55 in.) |
| Width | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Height | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2617 mm (103.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
The Skoda Roomster 1.2 12V, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability within the European MPV segment. Its unique design and flexible interior made it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile and space-conscious vehicle.
