The Skoda Roomster 1.9 TDI (105 Hp), produced between 2006 and 2010, is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) marketed primarily in Europe. While not officially sold in the United States, the Roomster represents Skoda’s attempt to capitalize on the growing demand for small, practical family cars with a distinctive design. It offered a unique blend of space, functionality, and affordability, appealing to buyers seeking an alternative to traditional hatchback or station wagon configurations. The Roomster’s design prioritized interior space and versatility, making it a popular choice for small families and individuals needing a flexible vehicle.
Skoda Roomster 1.9 TDI: An Overview
The Roomster occupied a niche market segment, bridging the gap between a conventional hatchback and a larger MPV. It distinguished itself with its asymmetrical rear door arrangement – a standard door on the passenger side and a sliding door on the driver’s side – enhancing accessibility in tight parking spaces. The 1.9 TDI variant, powered by a Volkswagen Group-sourced diesel engine, was a key offering, providing a balance of fuel efficiency and performance. The Roomster was built on the A5 platform, shared with the Volkswagen Polo and Seat Ibiza, contributing to its robust build quality and reliable mechanicals.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Skoda Roomster 1.9 TDI is a 1.9-liter, inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated EA188 / BSW. This engine produces 105 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1800 rpm. The engine utilizes a pump-nozzle (unit injector) fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration contribute to its compact footprint. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.9 seconds. The Roomster 1.9 TDI boasts a maximum speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 139 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Roomster features a distinctive MPV body style with a tall, boxy silhouette designed to maximize interior space. It’s a five-door vehicle with seating for five passengers. The asymmetrical rear door configuration, as mentioned previously, is a defining design element. Inside, the Roomster offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, with a flexible seating arrangement. The rear seats can be folded down or even removed entirely, creating a large cargo area. With the rear seats in place, trunk space is 450 liters (15.89 cu. ft.), expanding to a substantial 1780 liters (62.86 cu. ft.) with the seats folded. Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Roomster’s interior design is functional and practical, prioritizing usability over luxury. The vehicle’s ride height (ground clearance) is 140 mm (5.51 in), providing adequate ground clearance for typical road conditions. The drag coefficient is 0.33.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Roomster |
| Generation | Roomster |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TDI (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2006 |
| End of production | April, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 190.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1800 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA188 / BSW |
| Engine displacement | 1896 cm3 (115.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector) |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1775 kg (3913.21 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| 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 (Back) track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Front overhang | 851 mm (33.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 737 mm (29.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/55 R15; 205/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16 |

